System for Positioning Using Magnetic Anomalies Correlation of Earth (PUMACE)

Although the Global Positioning System (GPS) is an invaluable asset for providing low-cost, all-weather precise position, navigation, and time (PNT) measurements, it can be denied or degraded. Hence, alterative and assured-PNT (A-PNT) solutions are needed to maintain the integrity of the navigation solution. Recent research in the use of magnetic anomalies for navigation indicates that passive and robust all-weather navigation is possible without any dependence on new infrastructure. This proposed effort will leverage prior research to develop a magnetic-anomaly-based navigation system that is reliable and that can be used to bound inertial navigation system (INS) errors. The system will also assist in the detection of GPS spoofing and jamming by providing an independent source of measurements that will be used as an integrity monitor. The robust magnetic navigation (MagNav) system will be realized through improvements in measurement techniques, advanced vector sensor design, and advanced sensor fusion and estimation approaches. Detailed sensor and magnetic models will be developed and simulated to determine the expected performance of the system and to identify the system requirements. At the conclusion of the Phase I effort, a prototype system design will be ready for fabrication, testing and validation during the follow-on Phase II effort.