Antennas for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Signal Monitoring

ABSTRACT: The US Department of Defense, heavily dependent on the Global Positioning System (GPS) for geolocation, navigation, timekeeping and other military operations, faces unique challenges increasing capability, accuracy and availability of current GPS systems. New GNSS Systems are being developed and fielded worldwide including the Russian GLONASS system, the European Galileo system and the Chinese Beidou System. These systems are similar to the US developed GPS system, but operate at slightly different signal frequencies and signal structures. A receiver that can combine the measurements from different satellite systems can be used to create more accurate and precise measurements. BENEFIT: Wideband antennas that can receive all available signals have valuable applications for both military and civilian use. GNSS systems have become mission critical for applications ranging from instrument landing systems for air transport to assessing crop yields in agriculture. Future reliability of the GPS system depends on continuing investments by the US government. Reliability can be compromised by