Long-term rain attenuation observations at 13, 19 and 28 GHz

The location and equipment for measuring data relating to rain fading are presented. Simultaneous beacon and radiometer measurements are discussed and compared to the earlier radiometer measurements. Sites for the current test series are located in Illinois and Georgia. Beacon and radiometer measuring and recording equipment are located at Grant Park - which is 40 miles south of Chicago; and at Palmetto, 26 miles southwest of Atlanta, Georgia. Diversity sites, Manteno and Temple, which contain a single frequency radiometer only, are approximately 20 miles from the main site. Data from these locations is telemetered to the main site to be recorded simultaneously with local measurements. The antennas at all locations have been directed towards the Comstar D-1 satellite, in geostationary orbit at 128 deg longitude.