Abstract

In this paper, a novel approach for raindrop size distribution retrieval using dual-polarized microwave signals from low Earth orbit satellites is proposed. The feasibility of this approach is studied through modelling and simulating the retrieval system which includes multiple ground receivers equipped with signal-to-noise ratio estimators and a low Earth orbit satellite communicating with the receivers using both vertically and horizontally polarized signals. Our analysis suggests that the dual-polarized links offer the opportunity to estimate two independent raindrop size distribution parameters. To achieve that, the vertical and horizontal polarization attenuations need to be measured at low elevation angles where the difference between them is more distinct. Two synthetic rain fields are generated to test the performance of the retrieval. Simulation results suggest that the specific attenuations for both link types can be retrieved through a least-squares algorithm. They also confirm that the specific attenuation ratio of vertically to horizontally polarized signals can be used to retrieve the slope and intercept parameters of raindrop size distribution.

Highlights

  • We use computer simulations to explore the feasibility of using dualpolarized microwave signals from low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to measure the raindrop size distribution

  • As the difference between the two specific attenuations is crucial for retrieving the slope parameter and becomes less distinct as the elevation angle of the link goes higher, its retrieval needs to be performed at low elevation angles, preferably close to the minimum elevation angle of the receivers

  • Simulation results show that using signal-tonoise ratio (SNR) measurements from all elevation angles to retrieve the specific attenuation for horizontally polarized signals through a least-squares algorithm is feasible

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Summary

Introduction

In 1991, it was suggested that custom-designed microwave links could be used for the reconstruction of rainfall fields [3]

Methods
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