Propagation research on the 20 GHz Earth-Olympus satellite path

Abstract

For the utilization of higher frequencies (above 10 GHz) for satellite communications, propagation effects due to the atmosphere are a critical system factor. The main effects are the attenuation and depolarization of the signals by rain and other hydrometeors, but also the attenuation by water vapor and oxygen has to be considered. For the investigation of these effects, remote sensing techniques, in particular radiometry and radar polarimetry, are well applicable and useful tools. This contribution presents monthly single and joint parameter statistics of 20 GHz beacon attenuation, sky noise temperature, radiometer derived attenuation and rain rate. Radar predicted attenuation is compared with the measured beacon attenuation for a selected event. The polarimetric behavior of the sky noise temperature and the calibration of the radiometer are discussed.