The three-dimensional spatial autocorrelation of ionospherically propagated wave packets in the arctic region

The spatial autocorrelation of an electric field associated with an electromagnetic wave packet is modified by propagation through the ionosphere. An analytic formula for the autocorrelation is derived based on a linear plasma density profile for the ionosphere and a power-law turbulence spectrum for ionospheric irregularities. This work provides guidance for interpreting the results of radio experiments and for proposing future radio systems. In particular, autocorrelation functions provide insight on the degree to which ionospheric modes at various elevation and azimuth directions of arrival can be separated by analysis of the spatially dependent phase.