EME path calculation based on G/T

A correspondent asked if it was possible to calculate the link budget for an JT65 EME path using the G/T worksheet at (Duffy 2014).

Theory

JT65 has a stated requirement of S/N referenced to 2500Hz bandwidth of better than -28dB.

From (Duffy 2006):

The G/T ratio is a meaningful indicator of system performance, unlike quoting receiver noise temperature in isolation of sky temperature and antenna gain. The ability to receive weak signals is directly related to G/T, the higher G/T, the better. Signal/Noise ratio is proportional to G/T (Signal/Noise=S*λ2/(4*π)*G/T/(kb*B) where S is power flux density, kb is Boltzmann’s constant, and B is receiver quivalent noise bandwidth).

So, if we know S, the power flux density in W/m^2 at the receiving antenna, wavelength, and G/T, we can calculate the system S/N ratio.

The value for S can be found from the Field Strength Calculator (FSC). There is and example in FSC’s help for calculating an EME path.

Assumptions

In the absence of a specific scenario, let’s make some realistic assumptions:

  • Moon is at apogee;
  • tx EIRP is 100kW;
  • rx configuration is as documented in the G/T worksheet.

Solution

We must first calculate a value for S for the link conditions stated.

Screenshot - 21_04_2014 , 17_25_10The value for S is 3.407E-021W/m^2.

The distance used is for apogee, a conservative model. The model does not include the effects of path anomalies like polarisation rotation, libration etc.

A G/T model is constructed to find station G/T.

Clip 185

Above, the G/T model. Calculated G/T is -7.22dB/K.

No statement is made about ground gain, you can include it in antenna gain for an optimistic model, or leave it out for a more conservative model with some reserve.

Using the formula given earlier, S/N can be calculated. The calculations as been added into the spreadsheet.

Clip 186

Above, the calculated S/N in 2500 Hz of the incoming wave is -21.9dB, quite comfortably within minimum S/N required for JT65. The safety margin is -21.9 – -28=6dB.

Note: do not use G/T from VE7BQH’s tables, it is not station G/T (see Trying to make sense of the VE7BQH Yagi performance tables).

References

Last update: 22nd April, 2014, 8:43 AM