Application of a new technique for radio wave propagation study to experimental confirmation of the phase characteristics of Norton's ground wave propagation theory

Abstract

The basic purpose of this work is to investigate experimentally the phase characteristics of radio waves propagated along the surface of the earth as proposed by K.A. Norton (reference 1). Norton's theory indicates that the ground wave phase at distances of the order of tens of miles is greater than the corresponding space wave phase by not more than 180 degrees. From a radio surveying point of view, range errors of tens of feet may result. To avoid difficulties inherent in the direct and absolute approach, that of comparison of optical surveying with radio surveying over actual terrain at normally used frequencies (200 kilocycles per second to 15 megacycles per second), a new technique is developed. It is proposed that the propagation of radio waves may be studied by use of appropriate scale models, permitting experiments otherwise impossible because of the gigantic size of the equivalent true scale systems. Further, relative measurements may be obtained directly in a model system by proper choice of paths as contrasted with the absolute measurements usually made in a full-scale system. The technique is demonstrated by a preliminary experimental confirmation of Norton's theory. Suggestions for technique improvement and for further investigation possibilities are given.