Gain and pattern calibration of VHF antennas for an over-water propagation experiment

Predicting the propagation loss of VHF and UHF signals as they travel over the ocean surface at near-grazing incidence is extremely difficult. The variability caused by wind and waves requires simplifying assumptions which call into question the validity of both analytical and numerical models. In order to provide solid experimental data, which can be used to validate proposed propagation models, a propagation test system is presented and its results are discussed