Ka-band Scintillation on Low-Elevation Satellite-Earth Links in the Arctic; Long-Term Measurements and Improved Modelling

摘要

This paper presents long term scintillation measurements on 20 GHz satellite links at 3 coastal locations in the Norwegian Arctic and compares the results with existing prediction methods. The elevation angles of the three links are 6.6, 10, and 14° respectively. The scintillation levels are highest during the summer months and show large monthly variations at two coastal locations, while the variations are reduced for the island location. The measured scintillation amplitudes are much lower than predicted by the ITU-R method. A modification of the existing methods is proposed, based on the results, giving significantly better annual predictions for the 3 locations in question. Monthly predictions are also improved, if slightly conservative.