Phase noise refers to the rapid, short-term variations in the phase of a signal, often seen in oscillators and other electronic devices. It can degrade the performance of communication systems by introducing errors in signal timing, which affects data integrity and overall system reliability. This phenomenon is particularly important in applications like radio frequency communications and satellite systems, where precise timing is crucial. Phase noise can be caused by various factors, including temperature fluctuations, power supply variations, and component imperfections, making it a key consideration in the design of high-performance oscillators and synchronization systems.