Influence of reentry turbulent plasma fluctuation on EM wave propagation

Electromagnetic wave propagation in turbulent plasma media during reentry is being investigated. Emphasis is placed on the effects of electron density fluctuations on electromagnetic wave propagation. The objective of this paper is to specify the source of noise in electromagnetic signal reception due to turbulence in the flow about a high velocity flight vehicle. A review of existing ground and flight test data is conducted, including electron density fluctuation measurements. Analytical algorithms deduced from first principles are being developed and validated with experimental measurements. A Navier–Stokes model, three-dimensional parabolized Navier–Stokes, and a coupled boundary-layer and inviscid flow codes are used to estimate the mean and variance of the electron density on the frustum and at the vehicle’s base region. Analytical and numerical solutions solving Maxwell’s equations and a commercial off the shelf code are used to estimate the phenomena of electromagnetic wave propagation in inhomogeneous plasma media. Results include the estimation of signal attenuation and phase shift induced by the mean electron density and by electron density fluctuations in the flowfield. Comparisons are made between the predictions and available data.