Considerations of Moon-Relay Communication

Communication between two places on the surface of the earth by reflecting radio waves off the moon is considered. Each terminal of the circuit must be in a direct line from the moon. Frequencies above about 50 Mc. should be suitable for penetrating the ionosphere at all times and at all angles of incidence to reach the moon. If the moon has a perfectly smooth reflecting surface, signals of all types, including wide-band television, could be utilized. If the moon has a perfectly diffuse reflecting surface, transmission would be limited to telegraph or teleprinter operation and, possibly, narrow-band telephone service. Transmitting powers now available would seem to be adequate.