The effects of the atmosphere on radio wave propagation in the 50¿70 GHz frequency band

The influences of the Earth´s atmosphere are considered for radio wave propagation in the frequency range 50 to 70 GHz, with particular attention to the dominant attenuation by molecular oxygen and the effects of both hydrometeors (including rain, snow, hail and fog) and atmospheric turbulence. The possibilities, ranges and limitations of transmission systems operating within this frequency band, both for terrestrial line-of-sight and space communications systems, are discussed.