Large scale assessment of Ka/Q band atmospheric channel across Europe with ALPHASAT TDP5: The augmented network

Abstract

The upcoming migration of satellite services to higher bands, namely the Ka- and Q-bands offers many advantages in terms of bandwidth, data rates and system capacity. However, it poses challenges as propagation effects introduced by the various atmospheric phenomena are particularly pronounced in these bands and can become a serious constraint in terms of system reliability and performance. This paper outlines the goals, organization and some first results of an ongoing large propagation campaign consortium formed across Europe under the supervision of the European Space Agency; the campaign, shall ultimately assist in the validation and development of channel models targeting these-bands. Finally, the consideration of diverse climatic conditions and elevation angles along with the evaluation of the frequency and spatio-temporal effects, shall support the development of Fading and Mitigation Techniques and their assessment using real data.