TABLE OF CONTENTS GPS systems operate by finding and acquiring signals from GPS satellites, measuring the propagation time from the satellites and calculating the position relative to the known locations of the satellites.
Satellite constellation is the arrangement of space vehicles (e.g. satellites) around the planet. Groups of GPS satellites rotate the Earth sharing the orbital path (orbital plane). An orbital plane is the flat reference area that contains all the points where a satellite or other object can move in its orbital rotation. The GPS system has 6 orbital planes.
Satellite acquisition is the process of adjusting a ground receiver unit so that it s antenna and receiver can receive and demodulate the signal from a satellite.
During the signal acquisition process, the GPS receiver searches GPS frequencies until it can detect a signal. It then locks onto the signal and acquires the basic information about the GPS satellite that is transmitting the signal. The GPS receiver may then use this information to receive and decode additional codes that are transmitted by that satellite.
A satellite almanac is a composition of data related to the estimated position and status of satellites. While the satellite almanac has relatively low accuracy, it can be used to determine the expected location of satellites to enable a more rapid signal acquisition process.
Satellite tracking is the process of measuring and processing information received from a satellite to determine the location and/or characteristics of the signal from the satellite. Once...
