Post-war, Appleton focused on investigating sky waves theorized by Heaviside and Kennelly in 1902. Collaborating with the BBC, he conducted pioneering experiments by varying transmission frequencies and recording signal strength in Cambridge. Through these experiments, Appleton confirmed the reflection of electromagnetic waves off an upper atmospheric layer, later termed the ionosphere.
Appleton's most significant discovery was pinpointing interference as the cause of radio signal fading. By calculating the height of the ionospheric reflecting layer at approximately 95 km, he unveiled the complex structure of the ionosphere, especially the F-region which was named the "Appleton layer" in his honor.
Sir Edward Victor Appleton's research left an enduring legacy in radio communications and ionospheric science. His findings were pivotal in developing reliable long-distance radio communication, especially for over-the-horizon transmissions. Appleton's work laid the foundation for subsequent advancements in understanding ionospheric behavior, critical for modern-day technologies like satellite communication and global positioning systems.
In conclusion, Appleton's contributions exemplify the impact of scientific inquiry on technological progress. His meticulous research and innovative methods not only resolved a persistent wartime issue but also enriched our comprehension of the Earth's atmospheric layers, reshaping the landscape of telecommunications and space sciences. Sir Edward Victor Appleton's pioneering spirit continues to inspire scientists and engineers in exploring the frontiers of radio wave propagation and ionospheric dynamics.
Sir Edward Victor Appleton (1892-1965)
