scope:

Purpose of the Handbook on Radiometeorology

This Handbook provides general information on radiometeorology for those who use the ITU-R P series of Recommendations and those who wish to evaluate andor develop these Recommendations.

The Recommendations on effects of the atmosphere (radiometeorology) are largely based on scientific studies carried out over a large period of time. They are developed from consensus among the delegates regarding the general knowledge on the subject. Since such knowledge is always developing and never reaches a final state, it is of prime importance to be able to keep track of the results of scientific studies on which the Recommendations are based. If that infomation is lost it is no longer possible to revisit the subjects treated by the Recommendations and improve these for the benefit of the users. Also, reviewing the background information may help the user to appreciate the limitations and accuracy of the models given.

Since our understanding of the physics of radiowave propagation is limited, it is inevitable that the user will encounter questions that cannot be answered within the region of validity of the models presented in the Recommendations. In order to assist the user of the Recommendations and to give him guidance when general answers cannot be given, this Handbook provides background information as well as up-to-date summaries of experimental results and preliminary results of further modelling.

It is for this purpose that this Handbook on Radiometeorology has been prepared by ITU-R Study Group 3 (Radiowave Propagation). It should serve both the users inside and outside the Study Group and the members of the Study Group in charge of the development of Recommendations on the effects of the troposphere on radiowave propagation.