Propagation measurement and statistical modeling for wireless sensor systems aboard helicopters

Motivated by the use of wireless sensors aboard aircraft, this work provides a method to delineate large- and small-scale propagation characteristics using data collected over space, polarization, and frequency. Empirical results from a transport helicopter are presented to illustrate the technique. Of particular note, the instance of multipath fading more severe than Rayleigh was found to be greater than 20% in ISM bands of interest, thereby motivating future work in diversity schemes appropriate for this application space.