Engineering topics

Goudy, P.

Publications and source records attributed to Goudy, P..

3 records

NASA NTRS1984

A 406 MHz geostationary satellite SARSAT experiment

A 406 MHz SARSAT experiment using the GOES system to demonstrate the utility of integrating a near-instantaneous distress alerting capability achievable by the geostationary satellites with the location capability of the low altitude, near-polar orbiting satellite system is described. Tests include the evaluation of technical performance of a variety of maritime, aviation, and land-based SARSAT beacons under operational environment conditions as well as a demonstration of system effectiveness in pseudo real distress incident situations. The technical performance tests parallel the CCIR coordinated trials program conducted at L-band frequencies using the INMARSAT satellites. Tests, including schedules, are outlined.

Friedman, M. L.↗

NASA NTRS1984

SARSAT 406 MHz system technical evaluation

The location accuracy, access to spacecraft, uplink margin, and interference problems of the COSPAS-SARSAT system are reviewed. Over 90% of positions are accurate to within 5 km, in local mode, slightly worse in global mode. The random access parameters of SARSAT provide for the location of up to 90 beacons with a uniform distribution in the satellite visibility circle (2600 km radius). The ratio of messages correctly processed on board to messages transmitted to the satellite is 0.8, increasing as number of beacons decreases. Interference, particularly over western Europe and the United States degrades performance, but sources can be located.

Goudy, P.↗

NASA NTRS1982

Use of a geosynchronous satellite within the SARSAT/COSPAS system

Operational characteristics of combined LEO SARSAT/COSPAS and GEO spacecraft for localization of aircraft and seacraft emitting distress signals are described. Although 121.5 MHz capability is now included in all SARSAT/COSPAS satellites, limitations on the number of simultaneous signals which can be processed at that frequency due to atmospheric noise indicates the employment of the 406 MHz band. Additionally, the necessity for on-board storage for later transmission when the satellites are in a favorable position is leading to the implementation of GEO stationed relays for real-time transmission and processing of distress signals. Six NOAA spacecraft and two Soviet satellites are planned, with a completed system offering high detection probability, position location, worldwide coverage, coded messages, and high capacity (406 MHz). A significant factor in use of a GEO relay system is noted to be the signal to noise temperature of the repeater.

Goudy, P.↗