Dilution of Precision Computation Procedure When Measuring Receiver Position in Geodetic Coordinates.

Abstract

Certain users of the Global Positioning System (GPS) use the geodetic coordinate system to define their receiver position. Satellite positions, computed from either ephemeris or almanac data, are best stated, however, in terms of Earth-centered, Earth-fixed (ECEF) cartesian coordinates. This presents a problem when computing values for a dilution of precision (DOP) in position-- the measure by which the four satellites most suitable for range measurements are determined. Before receiving transmissions from GPS satellites and using them to determine precise receiver position, the user must determine which four satellites are in the configuration that will maximize system accuracy. This is accomplished by computing a DOP value for all groups for four satellites that are in view. For GPS users who measure their receiver position in geodetic coordinates, this value should reflect the use of these coordinates, rather than ECEF cartesian coordinates. This report outlines five algorithms, all used in the process of computing a DOP in position. The method to compute satellite position is described assuming the user is using almanac data, and the dilution of precision in position term is defined in terms of geodetic coordinates. The expressions defined for DOP are for users at sea level, measuring receiver position in Earth-fixed, geodetic coordinates. Keywords: Geometric dilution of precision (GDOP)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1984
Accession Number
ADA167911

Entities

People

  • Michael P. Baker

Organizations

  • Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Algorithms
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Cartesian Coordinates
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Covariance
  • Dilution
  • Eccentricity
  • Equations
  • Geometry
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • Grids
  • Latitude
  • Longitude
  • Measurement
  • Navigation
  • Orbital Elements
  • Precision

Readers

  • Geodesy
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris