GLOBAL NAVIGATION

SATELLITE SYSTEMS :
INTRODUCTION AND
PRINCIPLES OF OPERATIONS

GROUP MEMBERS :
JHOMAR UAYAN
MA.ANNABEL TAGUPA
LENDREL ADLAWAN
RODELO DAAMO
CHRISTIAN OCABA
 INTRODUCTION

The Global Positioning System (GPS), born from the space program,
has revolutionized surveying by offering a unique approach to
determining precise location, speed, and time anywhere on Earth. The development of GPS traces back to 1958 with the
Unlike conventional surveying methods that rely on angle and Navy Navigation Satellite System (NNSS), commonly
distance measurements, GPS utilizes signals transmitted from known as TRANSIT, which operated on the Doppler
satellites to calculate positions. This technology offers several key principle. This early system paved the way for the
advantages: modern GPS system that we use today.

The emergence of other GNSS systems, such as

- Global Coverage: GPS operates worldwide, eliminating the need GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou, further expands the
for line-of-sight between survey stations.
capabilities of satellite positioning. These systems
collectively provide a robust and versatile tool for a
- High Reliability: The system offers reliable positioning data wide range of applications, from surveying to
regardless of weather conditions, functioning day and night. navigation and beyond.

- Low Cost: GPS receivers are now affordable, making the

technology accessible to a wide range of users.
 FROM TRANSIT TO GPS

The TRANSIT system, a pioneering satellite navigation system developed in the 1950s, used Doppler shifts of signals from
satellites to determine the position of ground receivers. While initially intended for the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet,
TRANSIT found its way into civilian applications, particularly in surveying. Despite its bulky design, high cost, and
moderate accuracy, TRANSIT’s success laid the groundwork for the development of the NAVSTAR Global Positioning
System (GPS).

GPS, developed by the U.S. Department of Defense at a cost of $12 billion, became fully operational in 1993. While
sharing the principle of using satellite signals, GPS employs different methods for distance measurement and position
calculation, which are detailed in later sections.
The evolution of GPS has led to significant advancements:

- Reduced Size and Cost: GPS receivers are now compact and affordable.
- Simplified Procedures: Field and office procedures are streamlined.
- High Accuracy in Real Time: Modern GPS systems offer high accuracy and the ability to process data in real time.
These improvements have made GPS a highly versatile tool for surveying and a wide range of other applications.
OVERVIEW OF GPS

GPS relies on precise timing and signal information from satellites to calculate the position of a receiver. In essence, the satellites act as
control points, and the distances (ranges) measured to them allow the receiver’s position to be computed. This is conceptually similar to
resection in traditional surveying.

The GPS system can be divided into three key segments:

1. Space Segment: This segment consists of 24 operational satellites, plus four spares, orbiting Earth in six planes inclined at 55° to the
equator.

2. Control Segment: Ground stations monitor and control the satellites, ensuring accurate timing and orbital data.

3. User Segment: GPS receivers on Earth pick up signals from the satellites and use them to calculate their own position.

This interconnected system enables precise positioning information to be available to users globally, revolutionizing surveying and navigation.
GPS Satellite Configuration and
Identification

The GPS satellite constellation is strategically designed to provide 24/7 coverage

for most of the Earth’s surface, extending from 80° North to 80° South latitude.
These satellites orbit in near-circular paths at an altitude of 20,200 km,
completing a full orbit in 12 sidereal hours.

Individual satellites are typically identified by their PRN (PseudoRandom Noise)

number, but they can also be identified by their SVN (Space Vehicle Number) or
their orbital position.
GPS satellites rely on incredibly accurate atomic clocks to regulate the timing of
their signals. These clocks are essential for precise position calculations but are
also very expensive and require specialized handling.

To make GPS receivers affordable and user-friendly, they employ less expensive
quartz crystal oscillators for timing. While not as accurate as atomic clocks,
quartz oscillators offer sufficient precision for most GPS applications, making the
technology more accessible.
GPS Control Segment: Monitoring and Updating Satellites

The GPS control segment is responsible for monitoring and

updating the satellite constellation. It includes tracking
stations globally, including those in Colorado Springs, Hawaii,
Ascension, Diego Garcia, and Kwajalein. These stations
monitor satellite signals and track their positions.

The master control station, located in the CSOC (Consolidated

Space Operations Center) in Colorado Springs, receives this
tracking information and uses it to predict satellite orbits and
calculate clock corrections. This vital information is then
uploaded to the satellites and broadcast to receivers,
enabling them to accurately determine their position.
GPS User Segment: Standard vs. Precise Positioning

The GPS user segment consists of receivers that access either the Standard Positioning Service (SPS)
or the Precise Positioning Service (PPS).

SPS (Standard Positioning Service):

- Available for free on the L1 and L2 frequencies.
- Initially designed for 100m horizontal and 156m vertical accuracy (95% error level).
- Accuracy has significantly improved due to advancements in the system and processing software.

PPS (Precise Positioning Service):

- Available on L1 and L2 frequencies, but requires cryptographic keys.
- Primarily used by the DoD and other authorized entities.
- Offers higher accuracy, with published values of 18m horizontal and 28m vertical (95% error level).

These two services cater to different user needs, with the free SPS providing sufficient accuracy for
many applications, while the PPS offers a more precise solution for specialized purposes.
THE GPS SIGNAL

GPS satellites transmit unique signals on two carrier frequencies: L1

at 1575.42 MHz and L2 at 1227.60 MHz, derived from a
fundamental frequency of 10.23 MHz. These signals carry various
information, including almanac data, satellite clock corrections,
ionospheric corrections, and satellite health status, using phase
modulation techniques.

To determine positions accurately, GPS uses pseudorandom noise

(PRN) codes, which are unique binary sequences appearing random
but generated through specific algorithms. Each satellite transmits
two PRN codes: the precise code (P code) and the coarse/acquisition
code (C/A code) on the L1 signal, while the L2 signal only transmits
the P code. This system allows receivers to identify and track
multiple satellites simultaneously using unique GOLD codes.
THE GPS SIGNAL

Older GPS technology used C/A and P codes. Newer satellites utilize L2C
(a civilian code with moderate and long versions) and M codes (replacing
the P code for military use). The L5 civilian signal (1176.45 MHz) was
added in 1999 for safety applications. These improvements enhance
positioning accuracy. The C/A code (1.023 MHz, 300m wavelength) is
publicly accessible, while the higher-frequency P code (10.23 MHz, 30m
wavelength) offered greater accuracy.

Military GPS uses encryption (W code + P code = Y code) to prevent

spoofing. GPS relies on one-way signal transmission; the satellite’s
signal arrival time is compared to a locally generated replica to calculate
the signal delay, which is then used to determine distance. A Hand-Over
Word (HOW) and Time of Week (TOW) in the satellite’s broadcast
message aid in quickly matching the codes for accurate delay
measurement.
REFERENCE COORDINATE SYSTEM

In determining the positions of points on Earth from satellite observations, three different reference
coordinate systems are important. First of all, satellite positions at the instant they are observed are
specified in the “space-related” satellite reference coordinate systems. These are three-dimensional
rectangular systems defined by the satellite orbits. Satellite positions are then transformed into a three-
dimensional rectangular geocentric coordinate system, which is physically related to the Earth.As a result
of satellite positioning observations, the positions of new points on Earth are determined in this
coordinate system. Finally, the geocentric coordinates are transformed into the more commonly used and
locally oriented geodetic coordinate system. The following subsections describe these three coordinate
systems.
 THE SATELLITES REFERENCE
COORDINATE SYSTEM

Once a satellite is launched into orbit, its movement thereafter within that orbit is
governed primarily by the Earth’s gravitational force. However, there are a number
of other lesser factors involved including the gravitational forces exerted by the
sun and moon, as well as forces due to solar radiation. Because of movements of
the Earth, sun, and moon with respect to each other, and because of variations in
solar radiation, these forces are not uniform and hence satellite movements vary
somewhat from their ideal paths. As shown in Figure 13.4, ignoring all forces except
the Earth’s gravitational pull, a satellite’s idealized orbit is elliptical, and has one of
its two foci at G, the Earth’s mass center. The figure also illustrates a satellite
reference coordinate system, The perigee and apogee points are where the
satellite is closest to, and farthest away from G, respectively, in its orbit. The line of
apsides joins these two points, passes through the two foci, and is the reference
axis The origin of Xs, YS, Zs , the coordinate system is at G; the Ys axis is in the
mean orbital plane; and Zs is perpendicular to this plane. Values of Zs coordinates
represent departures of the satellite from its mean orbital plane, and normally are
very small. A satellite at position would have coordinates and as shown in Figure
13.4. For any instant of time, the satellite’s position in its orbit can be calculated
from its orbital parameters, which are part of the broadcastephemeris.
 THE GEOCENTRIC COORDINATE
SYSTEM

 The geocentric coordinate system is an Earth-centered,

three-dimensional rectangular system used to relate
satellite observations to points on Earth’s surface. Its origin
is at Earth’s center of mass; the X-axis points towards the
Greenwich meridian on the equator; and the Z-axis aligns
with the Conventional Terrestrial Pole (CTP).
 To convert satellite coordinates from the satellite reference
system to the geocentric system, four angular parameters
are needed: inclination, argument of perigee, right
ascension of the ascending node, and Greenwich hour
angle of the vernal equinox. These parameters are
obtained through mathematical modeling or tracking
station observations and used in software to perform the
conversion. While the specific equations are not detailed
here, this explanation highlights the nature of satellite
motion and the mathematical relationship between satellite
orbits and Earth positions.
 The GEODETIC COORDINATE
SYSTEM

While satellite surveys calculate point positions in the geocentric coordinate system,
it’s not convenient for surveyors due to: (1) large coordinate values, (2) axes
unrelated to north-south/east-west directions, and (3) lack of elevation information.
Therefore, geocentric coordinates are converted to geodetic coordinates (latitude,
longitude, and height (h)), making positions more meaningful and usable for
surveyors.
Conversions from geocentric to geodetic coordinates, and vice versa are readily
made. From the figure it can be shown that geocentric coordinates of point P can be
computed from its geodetic coordinates using the following equations: XP = (RNP+
hP) cos fP cos lP, YP = (RNP + hP) cos fP sin lP, ZP = [RNP (1 – e2) + hP] sin fP.

Equations (13.1) and (13.2) are used to convert geocentric coordinates (X, Y) to
geodetic coordinates (latitude, longitude). These equations incorporate the
eccentricity € of the WGS84 ellipsoid (0.08181919084), the radius in the prime
vertical (v) at point P, and the semimajor axis (a) of the ellipsoid. North latitudes and
east longitudes are considered positive, while south latitudes and west longitudes
are negative. The conversion process is further demonstrated in a Mathcad®
worksheet available online.
EXAMPLES :
Geodetic heights obtained from satellite surveys are measured
relative to the ellipsoid, meaning they represent the vertical
distance between the ellipsoid and the point. This is different
from elevations (orthometric heights), which are measured
relative to the geoid (an equipotential gravitational reference
surface). To convert geodetic heights to elevations, the geoid
height (difference between ellipsoid and geoid) must be known,
and then elevations can be calculated using the formula: H = h –
N, where H is elevation, h is geodetic height, and N is geoid
height.

The formula H = h – N relates elevation (H) above the geoid,

geodetic height (h) from satellite surveys, and geoid height (N). In
the continental United States, the ellipsoid sits above the geoid,
resulting in negative geoid heights. Models like GEOID09,
developed using gravimetric data and observed geoidal heights,
allow us to estimate geoid heights at any location within the
CONUS, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, using latitude
and longitude as input.
FUNDAMENTALS OF SATELLITE
POSITIONING

 The precise travel time of a signal is crucial for determining the distance to a satellite,
located about 20,200 km above the Earth. The signal takes approximately 0.07
seconds to travel from the satellite to the receiver, allowing the range (r) to be
calculated using the formula r = c * t, where c is the speed of light. Satellite receivers
use two main methods for distance measurement: code ranging (used by mapping
grade receivers) and carrier phase-shift measurements (used by survey-grade
receivers). By observing distances to multiple satellites, the receiver's position can be
determined. The following subsections will detail the methods and mathematical
models to enhance understanding of GPS operation, with computations performed
using manufacturer software.
 Code Rangin

 The code ranging method determines satellite-to-receiver travel

times, calculating distances using the known speed of light. One
range places the receiver on a sphere; two ranges, on a circle (the
intersection of two spheres). Three ranges pinpoint two possible
receiver locations; a fourth range resolves the ambiguity. The
system of equations (13.12) uses geometric ranges and satellite
coordinates to locate the receiver (X, Y, Z). However, clock bias and
atmospheric refraction introduce errors. Equation (13.13)
incorporates observed ranges (pseudoranges), the speed of light,
receiver and satellite clock biases to solve for the receiver’s position
and clock bias. These are point positioning equations used for code-
based receivers. Additional error sources affecting satellite signals
are discussed in Section 13.6. Because of these errors, the
measured range is a pseudorange, not the true range.
 Carrier Phase-Shift Measurements

Carrier phase-shift measurements offer higher accuracy in

determining satellite ranges by observing the phase shift of satellite
signals from transmission to reception. This method measures the
fractional cycle of the signal, similar to EDM instruments, but doesn’t
account for the number of full wavelengths traveled. Because
satellites constantly move, the ambiguity (integer number of cycles)
cannot be determined by simply adding frequencies. Various
techniques are needed to determine the ambiguity (discussed in
Section 13.6). Equation (13.14) provides the mathematical model for
carrier phase-shift, corrected for clock biases, where φ(t) is the
carrier phase shift, ρ(t) is the range, Nj is the integer ambiguity, fj is
the broadcast signal frequency, λ is the wavelength, and δj(t) and δ(t)
are the satellite and receiver clock biases, respectively.
ERRORS IN OBSERVATIONS

 Several error sources affect electromagnetic wave transmission in satellite surveying.

Major errors include satellite and receiver clock biases, and ionospheric/tropospheric
refraction. Additional errors stem from satellite ephemeris errors, multipathing,
instrument miscentering, antenna height measurement inaccuracies, satellite
geometry, and (prior to May 1, 2000) selective availability. All these errors contribute
to the overall inaccuracy of ground station coordinates derived from satellite data.
Further details are provided in the subsequent subsections.
Clock Bias

Satellite and receiver clock biases, previously discussed in Section 13.5, are modeled
using polynomial equations. Equation (13.15) shows the satellite clock bias model, where
δj(t) is the bias, a0, a1, and a2 represent clock offset, drift, and frequency drift,
respectively, and t0 is the reference epoch. These parameters are from the broadcast
message. Relative positioning techniques, specifically single differencing (Section 13.8),
mathematically remove satellite clock bias during post-processing. Receiver clock bias is
treated as an unknown and computed using equations (13.13) or (13.14), but can be
eliminated via double differencing in relative positioning (Section 13.8).
 REFRACTION

Electromagnetic waves passing through the atmosphere are refracted

due to varying refractive indices in different atmospheric layers
(troposphere and ionosphere). The troposphere (up to ~12km) and
ionosphere (50-1500km) significantly affect satellite signals, causing
range errors similar to timing errors, resulting in observed ranges
being called pseudoranges. The ionosphere, composed of charged
particles, is heavily influenced by solar radiation and space weather,
leading to significant variations in signal refraction. This ionospheric
refraction is the largest error source in satellite positioning. Equations
(13.13) and (13.14) are modified (Equations 13.16 & 13.17) to
incorporate ionospheric and tropospheric refraction effects. Dual-
frequency receivers (using L1 and L2 signals) offer a major advantage
by allowing mathematical removal of atmospheric refraction effects,
enabling accurate baselines up to 150km (Equations 13.18 & 13.19).
Single-frequency receivers have a much more limited range due to
their reliance on ionospheric models from broadcast messages.
Signals from low-elevation satellites are often excluded from
observations due to increased atmospheric interference.
OTHER ERROR SOURCES

Besides atmospheric refraction and clock biases, several smaller error

sources affect receiver positioning accuracy in satellite surveying.
These include errors in satellite ephemeris data, multipath signal
propagation, antenna miscentering, inaccurate antenna height
measurements, and unfavorable satellite geometry.

Satellite ephemeris data, used to predict satellite

positions, inherently contains errors due to gravitational
and solar influences. These errors directly impact ground
station position calculations in code-matching methods.
While post-survey ephemeris updates (ultra-rapid, rapid,
and precise) improve accuracy, they introduce delays.
Multipathing, where reflected signals reach the receiver at
different times, also causes errors. While mathematical
techniques mitigate multipathing, severe cases can lead
to signal loss, also caused by obstructions or high
ionospheric activity.
In satellite surveying, accurate positioning relies on careful setup and adjustment of antennas
mounted on tripods. Miscentering the antenna over the survey station can directly impact the
computed position, so precise procedures must be followed. Errors can also arise from incorrectly
measuring the height of the antenna’s phase center above the occupied point, necessitating careful
recording and data reduction.

The slant height, observed from the ground plane around the antenna, should be consistent;
discrepancies may indicate the need to check the instrument’s level. Mistakes in observing heights
can lead to elevation errors of up to 10 cm. To mitigate such issues, many surveyors use fixed-height
tripods that maintain a constant offset to the antenna reference point.

The phase center of the antenna varies with orientation, satellite elevation, and signal frequency,
requiring phase center offsets to align the electronic and physical centers. For older antennas,
maintaining the same azimuth across multiple receivers is crucial to avoid systematic errors, while
newer antennas are directionally independent.

The National Geodetic Survey calibrates GPS antennas concerning satellite elevations, and users
should incorporate this calibration data during processing to account for varying offsets.
GEOMETRY OF OBSERVED
SATELLITE

The geometry of visible satellites during

observation significantly impacts the accuracy of
satellite surveying. Weak geometry, characterized
by small angles between incoming satellite signals,
leads to larger errors in computed positions. Strong
geometry, with large angles between signals, yields
more accurate results. Similar to traditional
surveying, least-squares adjustment helps
determine the effect of satellite geometry on the
overall accuracy of the computed positions.
Table 13.2 outlines various categories of errors that can affect satellite
positioning, with examples showing expected error sizes, such as 7.5 m due to
ionospheric refraction. These estimates assume ideal satellite geometry, and
the anticipated errors will improve with the introduction of the L2C and L5
signals, reducing the User Equivalent Range Error (UERE) from approximately
7.5 m to about 2.8 m by 2030.

Before conducting a satellite survey, the visible satellites’ positions can be

analyzed using a preliminary least-squares solution to estimate their effect on
accuracy, producing Dilution Of Precision (DOP) factors. These factors indicate
how satellite geometry influences expected positioning errors. For instance, if
the DOP factor is 2, the expected errors would double. Lower DOP values
indicate better precision, and if the DOP is too high, surveys should be
postponed for better satellite configurations.
Key DOP factors include PDOP (position), HDOP (horizontal), and VDOP
(vertical), with acceptable values being under 5 for PDOP and under 2 for
HDOP in optimal conditions. Other DOP factors, like GDOP and TDOP, are less
critical for surveying. DOP factors are used to calculate positional errors, with
an example showing that a typical HDOP of 1.5 results in a 95% probable
horizontal positioning error of 22.5 m, which is expected to decrease to
approximately 8.5 m with the newer signals.
Selective Availability

Before May 2000, GPS accuracy was intentionally degraded by selective availability (SA), using
the delta and epsilon processes to affect satellite clock frequency and orbital parameters,
respectively. This resulted in approximately 100 m horizontal and 156 m vertical positional
error at the 95% error level. SA could be overcome using differential or relative positioning
techniques. Despite initial plans to disable SA by 2006, it was deactivated in May 2000
following a Presidential Decision Directive. With SA removed, code-based, real-time point
positioning accuracy improved to around 20 m, and future satellites will not have SA
capabilities.
 DIFFERENTIAL POSITIONING

Observed pseudoranges in GPS are affected by errors such as clock biases and atmospheric
refraction, leading to positional inaccuracies of 20 meters or more with single code-based receivers.
This level of accuracy is inadequate for most surveying applications. Differential GPS (DGPS)
improves accuracy by using a base station with a known position alongside one or more rovers. The
base station calculates pseudorange errors, which can then be applied to the rovers because they are
typically close enough to experience similar error magnitudes.

DGPS can operate in real-time through radio transmissions from the base station to the rovers,
providing pseudorange corrections (PRCs) and range rate corrections (RRCs). These corrections help
interpolate values for subsequent epochs. The corrected pseudorange at roving stations accounts for
the corrections, effectively eliminating common errors, including satellite clock biases and
atmospheric effects.

Various systems support differential corrections, such as the U.S. Coast Guard’s beacon stations and
the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS), which uses ground stations to collect GPS data and
relay corrections via geosynchronous satellites. Similar systems exist in Europe (EGNOS) and Japan
(MSAS). Combining WAAS with Local Area Augmentation System (LAAS) is expected to enhance
navigation accuracy for aircraft, potentially achieving centimeter-level precision in real-time. These
systems are currently in development and may be available as subscription services.
 KINEMATIC METHODS

Kinematic surveying employs methods similar to Differential GPS (DGPS) but utilizes carrier
phase-shift measurements to reduce errors. This technique requires at least two receivers
collecting signals from a minimum of four satellites simultaneously. While single-frequency
receivers can be used, dual-frequency receivers provide better results. Kinematic surveying can
achieve positional accuracies within a few centimeters, making it suitable for various surveying,
mapping, and stakeout applications.

In real-time kinematic (RTK) surveys, the known coordinates of the base station are leveraged.
The base station broadcasts its observations to the roving receiver, which then applies relative
positioning techniques to determine its position. Pseudorange corrections (PRCs) can also be
computed and sent to the roving receivers to correct their pseudoranges.

The equations governing the carrier phase pseudorange at the base station and the corrected
phase range at the roving receiver are based on observed data and include an ambiguity term.
These equations can be solved as long as at least four satellites are continuously observed
throughout the survey, with pseudorange and range rate corrections transmitted to the
receivers.
 RELATIVE POSITIONING

Relative positioning, using differences in

code or carrier phase ranges, achieves the
highest precision in determining positions.
Similar to DGPS and kinematic surveying,
this method effectively removes many
error sources by focusing on the relative
differences between points rather than Relative positioning uses two or more receivers to simultaneously
absolute positions. The goal is to observe pseudoranges at the endpoints of a baseline, focusing on the
determine the coordinates of a point differences in geocentric coordinates between a known base station (A)
relative to a reference point. and an unknown station (B). For accurate results, the receivers must
collect data at the same epoch rate, which can vary based on the
survey’s objectives, typically ranging from 1 to 15 seconds.

By collecting simultaneous observations, various linear combinations of

the equations can be generated, allowing for the elimination of specific
errors. The process, as illustrated in Figure 13.13, highlights the
required receiver-satellite combinations for each combination, with a
focus on carrier-phase measurements.
Single Differencing

Single differencing in GPS involves subtracting

simultaneous observations from two points to
one satellite. This eliminates the satellite clock
bias and much of the and tropospheric
refraction. The resulting equation (13.30)
shows that the satellite clock bias error, f’δi(t),
is eliminated.
 DOUBLE DIFFERENCING

Double differencing in GPS takes the

difference of two single differences
obtained from two satellites. This
eliminates the receiver clock bias. The
resulting double difference equation
(13.32) shows that the receiver clock
bias errors, fjδjAB(t) and fkδkAB(t), are
eliminated.
TRIPLE DIFFERENCING

Triple differencing in GPS takes the difference between two

double differences obtained from two different epochs of
time. This removes the integer ambiguity, leaving only the
differences in the phase-shift observations and the
geometric ranges. The resulting triple difference equation
(13.34) is immune to cycle slips because the integer
ambiguities have been removed. The importance of this is
highlighted by the fact that cycle slips are a main source of
error in GPS.
OTHER SATELLITE NAVIGATION
SYSTEM

The widespread use and significant military and economic benefits of satellite positioning
systems have driven other nations to develop their own networks. This expansion will
increase the overall utility and accuracy of satellite positioning technology.
 THE GLONASS CONSTELLATION

GLONASS, the Russian equivalent of GPS, uses a constellation

of 24 satellites in three orbital planes. Its satellites broadcast
two signals with frequencies determined by equations 13.35.
Unlike GPS, GLONASS satellites broadcast their positions every
30 minutes and use the PZ-90 reference ellipsoid. Furthermore,
GLONASS and GPS use different time reference systems;
GLONASS system clocks differ from Universal Coordinated Time
by 3 hours, while GPS clocks differ by 19 seconds. To combine
both systems, two satellites from each must be visible to the
receiver.
THE GALILEO SYSTEM

Galileo, a European Union satellite positioning system, offers five service levels: Open Service (free,
1m accuracy), Commercial Service (encrypted, cm-level accuracy), Safety-of-Life Service (free,
guaranteed accuracy and integrity), Public Regulated Service (government agencies only), and
Search and Rescue Service (distress beacon location and feedback). The system will consist of 27
operational satellites plus 3 spares, broadcasting six navigation signals. While initially delayed, the
system is progressing, with initial satellites launched and further launches planned. Galileo aims for
greater accuracy than GPS, especially with its commercial service, and interoperability with GPS is
ensured.
TGE COMPASS SYSTEM

China’s Compass GNSS will consist of 35 satellites (5 geostationary, 30 at 20,000 km altitude),

offering open and commercial services with 10m real-time positioning accuracy. Its projected
completion was around 2020. Receiver technology is already incorporating GPS, GLONASS, Galileo,
and Compass to improve speed and accuracy, especially in challenging environments like urban
canyons and mines.
THE FUTURE

Future improvements in GNSS will include enhanced signal penetration (canopy, buildings), improved
ambiguity resolution and atmospheric corrections (e.g., real-time ionospheric corrections using L2C
and L5 signals in GPS), and significantly increased accuracy (millimeter-level for carrier-phase,
centimeter-level for code-based solutions). The completion of GLONASS and Galileo will further
enhance these capabilities, providing highly accurate real-time positioning globally. This will lead to
decreased reliance on conventional surveying equipment and increased demand for professionals
skilled in data management and computer science to handle the large datasets generated.
THANK YOU FOR LISTENING !!