A study of ionospheric scintillation as it affects satellite communication -Part I: Geophys­ical Aspects

Ernest K. Smith

Abstract: This study concerns ionospheric scintillation as it affects satellite communications between about 100 MHz and 30 GHz. It is divided into three parts. The first part reviews the pertinent physics and suggests some boundaries and values for some of the critical geophysical parameters needed to make communications estimates. The second part is concerned with the derivation of the channel transfer function based on the suggested parameters from Part 1. The third part develops the relations necessary to assess the effect of ionospheric scintillation on typical satellite modulations and bit rates.

Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.

For questions or information on this or any other NTIA scientific publication, contact the ITS Publications Office at ITSinfo@ntia.gov or 303-497-3572.

Back to Search Results