THE DIFFRACTION OF HIGH FREQUENCY RADIO WAVES BY IRREGULARITIES IN THE IONOSPHERE WITH EMPHASIS ON WAVES EMANATING FROM ARTIFICIAL EARTH SATELLITES

Abstract

A diffraction theory is developed for a model in which the irregularities are confined to a slab. In the slab the refractive index is assumed to be a random function of position having a Gaussian autocorrelation function. The statistical parameters of the diffraction pattern on the ground are calculated for the case when the slab is illuminated by a stationary point source. Second, the dynamic characteristics of the diffraction pattern for a moving source are examined and applied to methods of determining the altitude, size, shape, and orientation of the irregularities. The methods involve simultaneous recording of signal amplitude at spaced receiving stations. Graphical and analytical procedures are developed to handle the complex geometry problems. Finally, the results of experiments utilizing the 54 mc radiation of Transit 4A are presented and conclusions are drawn. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 15, 1962
Accession Number
AD0283671

Entities

People

  • J.p. Debarber

Organizations

  • Pennsylvania State University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Altitude
  • Amplitude
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Autocorrelation
  • Diffraction
  • Frequency
  • Geometry
  • Ionosphere
  • Mathematics
  • Orientation (Direction)
  • Position Finding
  • Radiation
  • Radio Waves
  • Refractive Index
  • Stationary

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics.
  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.
  • Theoretical Analysis.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Space Objects