Journal Article

Phase Variation Model of VLF Timing Signal Based on Waveguide Mode Theory

Yuan, Jiangbin, Yang, Chaozhong, Hua, Yu, Hu, Zhaopeng, Li, Shifeng, Zhou, Xiao, Yan, Wenhe, Ma, Xinze

2025

Overview

In integrated PNT systems, due to defects in satellite signals and long-wave signals, VLF signals can be an essential supplement. However, there is currently a lack of VLF timing systems in the world, and it is impossible to evaluate the impact of the propagation delay of these signals. Based on the theory of very-low-frequency propagation, this paper determines the waveguide mode propagation at ultra-long distances as the main research direction, establishes a signal phase change model, gives a theoretical formula for the phase velocity of VLF signals, and analyzes the main factors affecting the phase velocity of VLF signal propagation. Finally, combined with historical observation data, the phase change is predicted, compared, and analyzed. The results show that the theoretical calculation is consistent with the measured data. The average error of the delay prediction is 0.015 microseconds per 100 km, and the maximum error of the delay prediction is 0.152 microseconds per 100 km.

• Publisher: MDPI AG
• Subject: Accuracy / Analysis / Approximation / Delay / Electric fields / Experiments / Ionosphere / Navigation systems / Phase change / Phase velocity / Propagation / Propagation modes / Propagation velocity / Satellites / Very Low Frequencies / Waveguides