Statistical studies of propagation and related meteorology over a 500 m path

In order to improve the availability of propagation data at frequencies above 30 GHz, the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory has built and operated the 500 m Millimetre-Wave Experimental Range at Chilbolton (MWERAC) in Hampshire (latitude 57° 8´N, longitude 1° 26´ W, elevation 84 m), to carry out propagation studies in the millimetric, infra-red and optical wavebands, in conjunction with a comprehensive set of meteorological observations (precipitation). Measurements from the range have been compiled into a three-year database of propagation and related meteorology, which is being used for two distinct kinds of study; case studies into individual events, in order to investigate in detail the interaction between radiowaves and the prevailing meteorology and statistical studies of propagation and related meteorology, to develop and test prediction procedures and for direct application to systems design. The authors present the main results of a statistical analysis of the complete three-year database, and compares these with some predictions based on the procedures recommended by CCIR