Ka/C dual frequency ranging system for ocean altimetry satellite and analysis of ionospheric error

Abstract In view of the future development trend ocean altimetry satellites, design idea Ka/C dual frequency combination system is proposed, that is, mode using an altimeter antenna to contain Ka and C frequencies (35.7 5.3 GHz, respectively) for combined ranging. First, random error model measuring distance from phase center sea surface given, analysis shows ionospheric correction one important factors. Second, calculation typical parameters influence higher order terms on ranging below mm level, its can be ignored. The rigorous expression first-order second-order term ionosphere are respectively, by three frequencies. computational experiment Jason-2 SARAL satellite show maximum magnitude in Ku band reach 11 cm, while 2 cm. For high-precision applications, corrections must made single frequency. After adopted, directly conducted without global map (GIM) model, accuracy will further improved than GIM model. Under 1 Hz sampling conditions, better 2.5 mm, basically eliminating ionosphere, total 3.5 cm considering propagation error.