Absorption Loss Modeling Tools for Terahertz Band Drone Communications

This paper compares the following four Terahertz (THz) band molecular absorption loss modeling tools: International Telecommunication Union (ITU)-R P.676 model, Line-by-Line Radiative Transfer Model (LBLRTM), Atmospheric Model (<i>am</i>), and HITRAN on the Web (HotW). We evaluate the THz band drone communication tools under horizontal and vertical communication scenarios. We use the U.S. Standard 1976 and tropical weather profiles to generate path loss data across different altitudes, frequencies, and distances. We also employ a simple analytical model, fitting the data from the ITU, LBLRTM, and <i>am</i> tools to assess its accuracy in predicting path loss. Our results demonstrate high consistency among the tools, with path loss differences becoming more significant in vertical scenarios. This study provides the first comprehensive comparison of four widely used molecular absorption loss modeling tools for THz band drone communications, considering various scenarios and weather conditions.