Indoor GPS Constellation Simulation System Using a Network of Electronically Scanned Antenna Arrays

Testing of satellite navigation receivers and their associated antenna systems is a critical component of fielding new navigation equipment for the warfighter. Anechoic chambers and open-air test ranges are typically used to test these systems in benign environments and in the presence of electronic attack (EA). A need exists for an indoor, dynamic satellite constellation simulation to bridge a technology gap that exists between current anechoic chamber testing and live-sky testing of navigation systems against electronic warfare (EW) assets. Filling this gap will add a level of realism to existing chamber testing, while simultaneously reducing the demand on the low-density test ranges. To meet this critical need IS4S proposes a GPS satellite constellation simulator using a network of electronically scanned antenna arrays. This system will achieve non-static AOAs that accurately emulate the AOAs from the real-live sky constellation without any moving components. In Phase I, Integrated Solutions for Systems (IS4S), partnered with Auburn University (AU) successfully demonstrated the technical feasibility of developing a system to meet this critical need. In Phase II, the team designed, manufactured, and tested two advanced prototype units and demonstrated a single satellite-track system. Over the course of the Phase II period, several unanticipated challenges arose that have changed the integration requirements that were originally planned for. These integration requirements will require some prototype design changes that will be addressed in the sequential Phase II period. Despite the unexpected challenges, IS4S and AU were still able to produce a sub-set advanced prototype capable of demonstrating the key technology required for the dynamic simulation system. IS4S will address the new requirements and continue to development to produce a full constellation demonstration at the end of the sequential Phase II period.