A Wideband Satellite Maritime Channel Model Simulator

In this article, we present implementation details of a generative satellite maritime propagation channel model at L-Band. In an earlier paper [1], we presented the parameterization of the channel model for the narrowband case based on recordings of GPS L1 C/N0 time-series in different sea state conditions. Additionally, we performed wider band measurements using GPS E5a (≈ 10 Mcps—chips per second— >20 MHz bandwidth) and obtained estimations of power delay profiles. Due to lack of dynamic range and delay resolution, in these measurements, no conclusive information was gathered on the time spreading caused by the channel. What was clear is that the time spreading was not significant outside the first signal chip, i.e., ≈ 0.1μs. Still wideband modeling is required within this spreading range. Now, we want to extend the model [1] to the wideband case. To achieve this goal, we have used a rough surface scattering model applicable to sea surfaces and employed it to characterize the time dispersion to be expected. Additionally, we also used this scattering model to help verify the validity of the existing Doppler spread model. Furthermore, ship movements in the waves play a role. We try and analyze this issue. Finally, we present a detailed discussion on various implementation issues we came across when coding the simulator.

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