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Patent No. 5041834
Artificial ionospheric mirror composed of a plasma layer which can be tilted (Koert, Aug 20, 1991)
Abstract
This invention relates to generation of a Artificial Ionospheric Mirror (AIM), or a plasma layer in the atmosphere. The AIM is used like the ionosphere to reflect RF energy over great distances. A tiltable AIM is created by a heater antenna controlled in phase and frequency. The heater antenna phase shift scans a beam to paint a plasma layer. Frequency is changed to refocus at continually higher altitudes to tilt the plasma layer.
Notes:
SUMMARY
AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
In view of the limitations of the related art it is an object of this invention
to generate a plasma layer that could be angled or tilted with respect to the
horizon in order to affect signal transmission range.
The present invention provides a system and method for generating a plasma layer
at controlled altitudes and inclinations that acts as an artificial ionospheric
mirror (AIM) to reflect RF signals. The AIM increases the range and predictability
with which RF energy may be reflected off the AIM for communications purposes.
More specifically, a tiltable AIM is created by a heater antenna controlled
in phase and frequency. The heater antenna phase shift scans a beam to paint
a plasma layer. The heater antenna continually refocuses at a higher altitudes
by frequency shifting to tilt the plasma layer.
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Although
the invention has been described above with particular reference to certain
preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood that modifications and
variations are possible within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.