OTS and radiometric slant-path measurements at Martlesham Heath /UK/

The results of slant-path propagation measurements using transmissions to and from the OTS satellite at an elevation angle of 29.9 deg are discussed with attention to the attenuation aspects of the measurements. Statistics of attenuation at 14.455 and 11.786 GHz employing circular polarization are presented for the period of July 1-August 31, 1978. Attenuation radio data is also given, and the significance of the effect of wet snow on the earth station reflector surface is illustrated. Examples of the radiometer measurements are provided, and the analysis of such measurements is discussed. The attenuation ratio due to rain between 14.455 and 11.786 GHz is measured at 1.5 plus or minus 0.1 and appears to be in good agreement with the theoretical model.