Propagation Performance of Terahertz Channels in Lunar Dust

TL;DR

This paper analyzes terahertz signal propagation through lunar dust, developing a model based on lunar dust properties to improve communication reliability for lunar exploration.

Contribution

It introduces an extended Mie scattering model tailored to lunar dust particles and validates it through theoretical and experimental analysis.

Findings

Dust particle properties significantly affect channel performance.

Power and bit error rate vary with dust conditions.

The model aids in designing robust lunar communication systems.

Abstract

The growing lunar exploration programs require robust communication systems for dust-laden environments, necessitating comprehensive understanding of channel propagation characteristics. We present an analysis of terahertz channel propagation through lunar dust environments, critical for reliable communication and sensing infrastructure. We develop an extended Mie scattering model incorporating unique properties of lunar dust particles from Apollo samples (10084, 14003, 70051), including irregular morphology, dielectric characteristics, and charge-dependent behavior. Through theoretical analysis and experimental verification, we examine power and bit error rate performance across varying dust conditions, revealing distinct relationships between particle characteristics and channel performance.