Adaptive transmission technologies for optical wireless communications: A review

With the growing demand for high-speed and high-capacity communication driven by sixth-generation communication technology (6G), optical wireless communication (OWC) has gained wide attention due to its advantages such as high bandwidth, low latency, and strong resistance to electromagnetic interference. However, in complex atmospheric environments, optical signal transmission is easily affected by factors such as turbulence, attenuation, and pointing errors, leading to reduced communication quality or even interruptions. Adaptive transmission can dynamically adjust transmission parameters to enhance link robustness and spectral efficiency. This article focuses on free space optical communication (FSO), with a particular emphasis on multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems. Starting from the key technologies and research progress of adaptive transmission, it analyzes the performance optimization strategies of adaptive transmission under different channel conditions. Finally, it discusses the main challenges faced by wireless optical adaptive transmission in the future and looks ahead to the development direction of this technology, aiming for more precise compensation and prediction of complex atmospheric channels and promoting the widespread application of optical communication in integrated space-air-ground communication networks.