P1.75
Atmospheric Influence on the Propagation of Radio Station Waves
Scott Mowaswes, Kean University, Union, New Jersey
This study tried to understand the propagation properties of radio waves under various weather conditions and attempt to assess or forecast the influence of weather in relationship to the strength of radio signals. Radio waves are constantly roaming the atmosphere (whether it is transmitting or receiving radio stations, two-way radios, TV etc.) and the strength of the radio signal can be affected by atmospheric reflection, refraction, interference and attenuation. Tropospheric ducting is a well documented condition in which radio signals can travel a much longer distance than normal due to the proximity to strong temperature inversion. This study involves the building of a 15-foot antenna, which will be used to receive radio signals transmitting from Delaware/Philadelphia Metro area, to New York Metro areas (including New Jersey). The strength of the radio signals from these stations will be recorded and compared against and related to the surrounding atmospheric conditions. Under calm and clear sky condition, the observations collected mainly consists of upper air soundings and surface maps to locate vertical temperature and dew point temperature inversion, horizontal frontal position. When severe weather is approaching, additional observations such as radar maps, satellite images and lightning data will be collected.
Poster Session 1, Student Conference General Poster Session
Sunday, 20 January 2008, 5:30 PM-7:00 PM, Exhibit Hall B
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