Simultaneous Measurements of Depolarization by Rain Using Linear and Circular Polarizations at 18 GHz

Limitatiooa imposed by attenuation during heavy rain on the reliability o(microwave systems are well known1and a recent paper2diacuased observations of depolariaation of circular polariaation by rain at 18 GHa; it was concluded that depolarisation by oblate ra.indropa poses a serioUB problem for the use of circular polarisation. However, it is desirable that a direct comparison be made by simultaneous measurementis of linear and circular polariaatiooa on the same propagation path. Continuous measurements have been made during the period June 1972 through April 1973 (a total of as rain showers); a discumion of these follows a few remarks on the experimental system.