Laser Communication Systems and Related Technologies

Dear Colleagues,

As the global demand for high-speed, secure, and reliable data transmission grows, laser communication systems have emerged as a transformative solution for terrestrial, airborne, and space-based applications. With the increasing need for ultra-high-speed, low-latency communication across satellite constellations, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and deep-space missions, the challenges of rapid link establishment, long-term stable beam alignment, and resilience to dynamic disturbances remain pivotal bottlenecks. Therefore, it is necessary to design fast scanning and acquisition algorithms enabled by AI-driven predictive models for rapid link establishment in high-mobility scenarios. This should be achieved alongside precision pointing, tracking, and vibration suppression techniques that integrate advanced opto-mechanical designs, MEMS-based beam steering, and real-time feedback control to combat platform jitter and atmospheric turbulence. Further, optical system miniaturization and integration for SWaP-constrained platforms should be explored, as well as low-cost innovations in components and manufacturing to drive scalable commercialization. Collectively, these efforts aim to bridge theoretical breakthroughs with deployable solutions, addressing critical challenges in dynamic alignment stability, system robustness, and cost efficiency for next-generation terrestrial, airborne, and space-based communication infrastructures. 

This Special Issue aims to explore cutting-edge advancements and interdisciplinary innovations in laser-based communication technologies, focusing on advancing the critical technologies that enable robust and efficient laser communication systems. 

In this Special Issue, both original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Fast Scanning, Acquisition, and Beam Alignment Technologies;
• Precision Pointing, Tracking, and Vibration Mitigation;
• Miniaturized and Integrated Laser Communication Systems;
• Atmospheric turbulence mitigation;
• Machine learning-enhanced disturbance suppression;
• Standardization and Interoperability in laser communication systems;
• Low-Cost Innovations for Scalable Deployment;
• End-to-End System Optimization and Field Validation;
• Emerging Applications and Cross-Disciplinary Synergies. 

We look forward to hearing from you.

Dr. Xuan Wang
Dr. Chen Wang
Guest Editors

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• laser communication systems
• scanning and acquisition
• precision pointing and tracking control
• opto-mechanical integration
• miniaturized transceivers
• autonomous beam alignment
• standardized laser networks