GPS/GNSS-Denied Navigation for Mach Industries’ Glide

This effort seeks to develop a comprehensive analysis of various navigation technologies designed for use in environments where GPS/GNSS signals are unavailable, with a particular focus on their integration into small aircraft deployed from high-altitude balloons. The technologies examined include Inertial Navigation Systems (INS), which leverage accelerometers and gyroscopes for tracking movement without the need for external references; Vision-Based Navigation, which uses cameras and computer vision to identify landmarks and features; and radar technologies like Lidar and Radar for environmental mapping and obstacle detection. Additionally, Celestial Navigation, which determines position based on celestial bodies, is reviewed as a traditional yet effective method under certain conditions. The research will further explore the specific challenges associated with implementing these technologies in small aircraft, such as constraints on size and weight that limit the onboard equipment, the significant power requirements of sophisticated navigation systems, and the complexities involved in integrating new technologies with existing avionics and control systems. By addressing these challenges, the study aims to contribute to the development of effective, autonomous navigation solutions for small aircraft operating in GPS-denied environments.