Preliminary results of MARECS-A measurements in Central Maryland and plans for 1988 MSS experiment in Australia

Past and future efforts are described, using L Band (1.5 GHz) satellite signals for mobile satellite system (MSS) propagation measurements. Preliminary results from the December 1987 campaign in Central Maryland with the Atlantic Ocean MARECS satellite are given. The fade level statistics from this 22 degree elevation source are consistent with helicopter measurements made along the same roads. The day to day repeatability of the fade probabilities is shown to be usually better than about 20 percent. An experiment plan is presented for measurements using the Experimental Test Satellite-V's (ETS-V's) southern beam. These measurements will be made in Australia in collaboration with Australia's National Satellite System (AUSSAT) during the July/August 1988 time-frame.