Propagation channel characterization for Ka mobile communication systems

The statistical characterization of the propagation channel is of paramount importance in the design of future mobile satellite communication systems. At Ka band, the propagation channel can be strongly impacted by tropospheric events but also by the receiver local environment. Buildings, poles or trees can lead to partial or even total shadowing effects. In this paper, we present an extensive characterization of the local propagation effects in various environments such as urban, rural, highway or railway environments. The statistical analysis of measurements made in Ka band confirms and extends observations that have been made previously in comparable or lower frequency bands.