Ionospheric effects on C3I satellite communications systems in Greenland

For the past 25 years the effects of the polar ionosphere on satellite communications has been under evaluation in Greenland. As a result of the testing, models have been developed which quantify the effects of solar flux, magnetic index, time of day, season, elevation angle, and frequency on ionospheric scintillation fading. For the past 10 years, operational type of satellite communications testing has been conducted in Greenland to evaluate the feasibility of replacing the traditional HF radio links with satellite communications links. This paper reviews the effects of polar ionospheric scintillation fading, describes the operational testing, and identifies plans for operational use of satellite communications in Greenland.