Synoptic Prediction of Meteorological Factors Affecting Tropospheric Radio Propagation

Radio-meteorological research since WWII is reviewed. All stages of the information flow from meteorological observations to users of radio-propagation predictions are examined and the need for more oceanic mesoscale observations is stressed. A comprehensive literature search is reported. All stages of the information flow required to provide a naval customer with a timely, useful prediction of anomalous propagation conditions are examined. Problem areas are identified and possible solutions are proposed for each stage of the flow. The effect of oceanic mesoscale circulation on naval radio systems and the ability to deduce representative three-dimensional synoptic patterns over large regions of the oceans from widely spaced radiosonde stations are concluded to be the two most important subjects for future investigation. A method of formulating prediction requirements is proposed.