Path diversity in propagation of millimeter waves through rain

Cumulative distributions of attenuation due to rain are computed for the frequencies 11,18.5, and 30 GHz. The results are derived from a four-year sample of rainfall data obtained on a highly resolving areal rain gauge network in Bedfordshire, England. Lack of correlation of attenuation on both orthogonal and parallel paths is discussed and the effect of path diversity is demonstrated for the frequency 30 GHz. Examples of computer-generated maps of intense rain showers at the earth's surface are given.