Statistical estimation of tropospheric radio refractivity derived from 10 years meteorological data

Estimation of radio refractivity is critical in planning and design of radio links/systems for achieving optimal performance. The objective of this work is to estimate statistical variation of radio refractivity due to meteorological conditions dependent on the geographical region under consideration. These statistical estimations of tropospheric radio refractivity have been computed using the method recommended by International Telecommunication Union (ITU). A MATLAB software tool has been developed for this purpose. The sensitivity of radio refractivity to temperature, pressure and humidity has been evaluated for a period of 10 years from 2000 to 2009. Results have been obtained for tropospheric radio refractivity taking into consideration the location height, as well as the scale height parameters. These results have been analyzed in terms of statistical measures such as the moving averages, cumulative probability, monthly mean values, and the corresponding standard deviations. It has been observed that radio refractivity attains peak values during hot and humid months of July–August over the period of study. Moreover, a significant deviation from mean values is also observed that is required to be taken into consideration for optimal performance of radio link/systems design.

► We estimate refractivity under varying meteorological conditions over 10 year period. ► We identify three distinct time windows for refractivity variation in a typical year. ► We observe strong dependence of the radio refractivity on temperature and humidity. ► Radio refractivity attains peak values during hot and humid months of July–August. ► We detect a significant deviation from mean values, critical for optimal performance of radio link/systems design.