LINKA - Link Stability in the Ka-Band
Ka-band technology is the future in satellite communication. Instruments to stabalize the signal during precipitation events are a basic necessity for professional commercial applications.
The project LINKA measured and models signal degredation as a function of precipittaion events. These models allow targeted link configuration to stabalize data link. To simulate real broadcast situations, signals are transmitted from the Ka-band station of the TUM Institute of Astronautics via satellite link to an external Ka-band ground station. Both stations are equipped with up-/downlink power control and adaptive code modulation instruments, provided by our industrial partner.
The current instrument programming can thus be tested for suitability to maintain link stability under realistic conditions. Based on the data analysis of documented link performance and weather data, we can optimize our current models to predict the dependency of link stability to signal strenth for Ka-band applications.
In parallel, we can derive a model for the direct dependency of signal dampening as a function of precipitation for short term and longer weather events. This future Ka-band specific model provides ground stations with the means to effectively plan their link configurations.