Analysis of a satellite communication channel: optical scintillations and fade statistics

Ronald L. Phillips; Larry C. Andrews

doi:10.1117/12.254167

14 October 1996 Analysis of a satellite communication channel: optical scintillations and fade statistics

Proceedings Volume 2828, Image Propagation through the Atmosphere; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.254167
Event: SPIE's 1996 International Symposium on Optical Science, Engineering, and Instrumentation, 1996, Denver, CO, United States

Abstract

Estimates of the fractional fade time, expected number of fades, and mean duration of fade time associated with a transmitted Gaussian-beam wave are developed for uplink laser satellite-communication channels and compared with similar results based on a spherical wave model. Weak fluctuation theory using the lognormal model is applicable for zenith angles less than 60 degrees. Because spot size and off-axis scintillations are significant in the Gaussian- beam wave model but not for the spherical wave model, pointing errors become an important consideration in a reliable laser communication link. Off-axis scintillations increase even more rapidly for large diameter beams and can in some cases lead to a scintillation saturation for pointing errors greater than 1 (mu) rad off the optical beam axis.

Citation Download Citation

Ronald L. Phillips and Larry C. Andrews "Analysis of a satellite communication channel: optical scintillations and fade statistics", Proc. SPIE 2828, Image Propagation through the Atmosphere, (14 October 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.254167

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