Waveguide-Mode Power Budget for an ELF/VLF Transmitting Satellite
Abstract
Signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio power budgets are evaluated for an ELF/ VLF transmitting satellite using waveguide-mode field representations in the frequency range from 250 Hz to 9 kHz and for satellite heights from 120 km to 800 km. The low-order waveguide-mode parameters are presented. The propagation of the waveguide-mode fields into the lower ionosphere is evaluated using a full wave method. The propagation of the fields in the upper ionosphere is evaluated by a ray-tracing method. When these fields are known, the propagation from a ground-based transmitter to a satellite receiver may be evaluated, as well as the reciprocal transmission from a satellite transmitter to a ground-based receiver. The radiation resistance of a finite loop magnetic dipole antenna is evaluated for a variety of frequencies and locations in the ionosphere for both open and closed index of refraction surfaces. The satellite power required to provide a S/N ratio in excess of 0 dB in a 1-Hz bandwidth at a 1-Hertz bandwidth at a ground range of 1 Mm from the ionospheric exit point of the waves is evaluated for several cases. The power requirements (in the megawatt range) exceed the power supplied on current spacecraft missions, but they are within the realm considered possible for future space electric power systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 17, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA032287
Entities
People
- D. J. Baker
- F. J. Kelly
- G. A. Chayt
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory