Performance Analysis of Modulating Retroreflector Array for UAV-Based FSO Links

In this work, we investigate the performance of free space optical (FSO) communication systems based on modulating retroreflector (MRR) array. In particular, we first characterize the MRR array-based FSO channel by taking into account the effects of real channel parameters. Then, we derive the analytical expressions for the probability density function (PDF), cumulative distribution function (CDF), and channel capacity. We show that the use of an MRR array significantly increases the channel capacity. Next, for the special case where the MRRs are arranged close together (suitable for small UAVs), we obtain more tractable closed-form expressions for the PDF and CDF of the channel along with the channel capacity. Finally, using simulations, the performance of the considered system is analyzed in terms of outage probability and channel capacity. Simulation results confirm the accuracy of the analytical expressions.