Evan J. Dutton and Harold T. Dougherty

Abstract:

Known theory is applied to examine the channel transfer function for earth/space propagation paths through the atmosphere and over t he frequency range from 10 to 350 GHz. The associated attenuation and phase-delay characteristics are separated into the contributions of the clear-sky, clouds, and rainfall. From the available meteorological data, the total path attenuation and phase-delay is estimated over the frequency range from 10 to 45 GHz for selected values of the initial elevation angles from a ground station near Washington, DC.

The associated attenuation coefficients (dB/km) and phase-delay coefficients (rad/km) attributable to the clear air, clouds, and rainfall are also described for frequencies up to 350 GHz.

Keywords: atmospheric attenuation; atmospheric phase delay; microwave frequencies; millimeter waves; clear-air effects; effects of clouds; effects of rainfall

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