Computerized Methods for Three-Dimensional Ray Tracing in the Ionosphere

Abstract

A three dimensional ray tracing computer programme has been developed to study ionospheric effects on the propagation of HF, VHF, and microwave frequencies. The programme is quite general and can be used with any model of electron density, earth's magnetic field, and electron collision frequency. The programme has been used to study effects of the ionosphere on skip distance, maximum height of reflection, various path lengths, elevation error, and differential phase path.

Indexing Terms:

• Ionosphere
• Ray tracing
• Propagation