RECENT ADVANCES IN PREDICTION OF TROPOSPHERIC PROPAGATION USING THE PARABOLIC EQUATION.

New algorithms implemented in the Electromagnetic Parabolic Equation (EMPE) propagation program have resulted in a capability to include a finitely conducting earth surface and most types of antenna patterns in propagation calculations. The antenna-pattern model has, in turn, made it possible to investigate monopulse radar performance in anomalous propagation conditions. Also, a simultaneous experimental effort has led to the development of a sophisticated range-interpolation scheme for refractive index variations and, ultimately, to validation of the EMPE program.