Space Station Wireless Local Area Network Signal Characteristics Modeling and Measurements

This paper presents the signal characteristic analysis of the International Space Station 2.4 GHz wireless local area networks (WLANs). The test data indicate the Space Station RF environment is quite different from typical indoor environment. The empty Space Station modules may be regarded as oversized waveguides with very little propagation loss. The furnished Space Station modules are imperfect waveguides with many lossy materials presented. The propagation loss in both unfurnished and furnished module is less than in free space. It is observed that the propagation characteristics are significantly affected by the presence of the equipment and furniture inside the Space Station modules. The obtained results indicate the module geometry and interior furniture materials are the two important factors determining the propagation characteristics of the Space Station WLAN system. The analysis results from this paper are essential for Space Station WLAN access point placement and RF coverage performance determination