Issues with Modeling a Tunnel Communication Channel through a Plasma Sheath

Sensors (Basel). 2022 Jan 5;22(1):398. doi: 10.3390/s22010398.

Abstract

We consider two of the most relevant problems that arise when modeling the properties of a tunnel radio communication channel through a plasma layer. First, we studied the case of the oblique incidence of electromagnetic waves on a layer of ionized gas for two wave polarizations. The resonator parameters that provide signal reception at a wide solid angle were found. We also took into account the unavoidable presence of a protective layer between the plasma and the resonator, as well as the conducting elements of the antenna system in the dielectric itself. This provides the first complete simulation for a tunnel communication channel. Noise immunity and communication range studies were conducted for a prospective spacecraft radio line.

Keywords: blackout problem; electromagnetic wave tunneling; numerical modeling; re-entry spacecraft radio line; waves in plasma.