An Analysis on Effect of Rainfall Propagation Impairment for Fixed Frequency Satellite Link Communication

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@article{1719000,
      author = {Ali Ado, Aminu Dahiru, Abdullah Ado, Usama Yusuf, Hassan Muhammad Bashir},
      title = {An Analysis on Effect of Rainfall Propagation Impairment for Fixed Frequency Satellite Link Communication},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2026},
      volume = {9},
      number = {12},
      pages = {2319-2325},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1719000.pdf},
      abstract = {Rainfall is a major atmospheric factor that impairs the propagation of satellite communication signals, particularly at microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies. This study presents an analysis of the effect of rainfall propagation impairment on fixed-frequency satellite link communication, with particular emphasis on Potiskum, located in the semi-arid region of northeastern Nigeria. The research focuses on evaluating how rain rate, operating frequency, and elevation angle influence signal attenuation and overall system performance. The study adopts a theoretical and analytical approach based on internationally accepted propagation models recommended by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU-R). Rain rate statistics obtained from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency were utilized to estimate rain-induced attenuation using the ITU-R P.838 and P.618 prediction models. Link budget analysis was carried out to assess the impact of rain attenuation on received signal power, signal-to-noise ratio, bit error rate, and link availability for fixed-frequency satellite systems operating in the C-, Ku-, and Ka-bands. The results reveal that rain attenuation increases significantly with increasing rain rate and operating frequency, while lower elevation angles result in higher attenuation due to longer propagation paths through the rain medium. Although Potiskum experiences moderate rainfall compared to coastal regions of Nigeria, intense seasonal rainfall events can still cause noticeable degradation of satellite signal quality, particularly for Ku- and Ka-band links. The findings confirm that rainfall propagation impairment remains a critical limitation to high-frequency fixed satellite communication systems if adequate fade margins and mitigation techniques are not employed. The study concludes that accurate rain attenuation prediction and proper link design are essential for ensuring reliable satellite communication in Potiskum. Recommendations are made for the inclusion of sufficient fade margins, appropriate frequency band selection, adoption of adaptive mitigation techniques, and the use of local rainfall data in satellite system planning.},
      month = {June},
      doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I12-1719000}
  }