Study of propagation properties of the 50 to 70 GHz band and its potential applications for space communication, volume 2 systems

A study of the exploitation of the 60 GHz band for space communication services was carried out. In particular, the feasibility and limitations for space to stratosphere and inter-satellite digital systems at 60 GHz (20 and 40 phase shift keying) were investigated. The effects of absorption by the oxygen molecules, of water vapor absorption and the rain and cloud effects are discussed. Propagation factors (oxygen, water vapor, rain and clouds) and their impact on the measuring accuracy of space borne radar altimeters are examined at 35 and 78 GHz and comparisons are made with present radar altimeters operating in the 13.5 GHz band. Detailed numerical and graphical results are included.