MODELING ELECTROMAGNETIC-WAVE PROPAGATION IN THE TROPOSPHERE USING THE PARABOLIC EQUATION

A computational method is described for predicting electromagnetic wave propagation in the troposhere using the parabolic approximation of the Helmholtz wave equation. The model represents propagation over a spherical, finitely conducting earth and allows specification of frequency, polarization, antenna pattern, antenna altitude, and elevation angle. The method enables calculationss to be performed using either ideal or measured refractivity profiles that vary in both altitude and range. A brief discussion of the theoretical formulation and computational implementation of the propagation model is presented, followed by examples that demonstrate various features. Example calculations include 3-GHz propagation over a calm sea in the presence of both range-dependent and range-independent surface-based ducts as well as in standard atmosphere conditions. Comparisons with two other propagation models are also discussed.