Simulation modelling the GPS signal propagation in the tropospheric ducts

Abstract

This paper presents a thorough research on the GPS (Global Positioning System) signal propagation in the tropospheric ducts with ray tracing approach and the split-step parabolic equation (SSPE) method. In recent years, radio wave propagation in the troposphere has been attended extensively by many researchers, especially for the radio wave propagation in the ducting environment and its effect on radar system and electronic system. Generally, strong gradients of humidity and temperature can be observed closely to the air-water interface leading to anomalous propagation effects such as atmospheric ducting. Radio system and radar of maritime operation are greatly influenced by the existence of atmospheric ducts, it can give a rise to over-the-horizon detection and form the radar detection shadow zone. This paper introduced the GPS signal as the initial field by the PE method to study the electromagnetic wave propagation characteristics in the tropospheric ducts, and given the results by the ray tracing approach as comparison at the same time.