# Ultra-Wideband Air-to-Ground Propagation Channel Characterization in an Open Area

## TL;DR

This study characterizes the ultra-wideband air-to-ground propagation channel using UAV measurements across 3.1-4.8 GHz, providing statistical models and an analytical path loss model for different scenarios.

## Contribution

It offers new empirical data and models for UWB air-to-ground channels, including the Saleh-Valenzuela model fit and an analytical path loss model based on antenna gains.

## Key findings

- Saleh-Valenzuela model fits well for the channel statistics
- Channel characteristics vary with LOS and antenna orientation
- Analytical path loss model developed for UAV scenarios

## Abstract

This paper studies the air-to-ground (AG) ultra-wideband (UWB) propagation channel through measurements between 3.1 GHz to 4.8 GHz using unmanned-aerial-vehicles (UAVs). Different line-of-sight (LOS) and obstructed- LOS scenarios and two antenna orientations were used in the experiments. Channel statistics for different propagation scenarios were obtained, and the Saleh-Valenzuela (SV) model was found to provide a good fit for the statistical channel model. An analytical path loss model based on antenna gains in the elevation plane is provided for unobstructed UAV hovering and moving (in a circular path) propagation scenarios.