Modeling the Effects of the Use of GPS (Global Positioning System) Derived Altitude Indication in the C-17A Airdrop System

Abstract

The McDonnell-Douglas C-17A will use the Global Positioning System (GPS) for horizontal positioning during airdrops. ALthough GPS is capable of three-dimensional positioning, the primary reference for positioning in the vertical plane (altitude) is a barometric altimeter with an air data computer. The horizontal accuracy requirement with respect to the computed air release point (CARP) is one-hundred meters circular error probable (CEP). No accuracy requirement exists in the vertical plane. The purpose of this study is to determine if the vertical positioning provided by GPS allows for better airdrop performance, and to provide guidance in determining an accuracy requirement in the vertical plane. (JES)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1989
Accession Number
ADA215366

Entities

People

  • Thomas R. Kogler

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Aerial Delivery
  • Air Force
  • Air Temperature
  • Altimeters
  • Altitude
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Computers
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Elevation
  • Geometry
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • Navigation
  • Pressure Altimeters
  • Static Pressure
  • Three Dimensional
  • Wind Velocity

Readers

  • Aerospace logistics and air mobility.
  • Geodesy
  • Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Technology.

Technology Areas

  • Space