A combination of GPS, Galileo, and Glonass increases signal accuracy and gives operators better access. According to several driving tests, combining GPS and Glonass improves performance and precision when compared to operating with a single satellite system.
The GPS, Galileo, and GLONASS form the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), which provides crucial information relating to time and position. Moreover, the information provided by GNSS assists in the navigation of aircraft and ships.
Benefits of Using GPS, Galileo, and GLONASS-Compatible Devices
Embracing devices with a GPS, Galileo and GLONASS compatibility feature has the following advantages: increased security, several pathways, improved data integrity, and future proofing.
Improved Data Integrity
Galileo provides better security features for the automotive industry, rail, maritime and air transport sectors. Having a device compatible with both GPS and Galileo allows you to receive more accurate and reliable data.
Increased Security
Constantly advancing technology has made the world a hub of innovation. GPS technology has changed they we carry out our day-to-day activities. Many industries, such as the transport and logistics sectors, depend on GPS to accomplish their daily tasks.
Furthermore, nowadays, firms such as https://www.eyerideonline.com are manufacturing vehicle tracking devices for the purposes of security and monitoring.
In the case where one of the satellites fail, your tracking device will be able to receive information from the working satellite. For example, if the GPS fails, then your device will still be able to receive information from GLONASS or Galileo.
Several Pathways
Having a compatible tracking device means that you will gain access to information from several satellites, thus improving visibility in areas with natural or human-made obstructions.
Future Proofing
Nobody knows what the future holds; a compatible tracking device will help you evolve quickly as changes occur. Furthermore, this helps avoid the risk of holding onto obsolete technology.
GPS
The Global Positioning System (GPS), previously known as Navstar GPS, is currently managed by the United States army and is funded by the USA government. The main objective of this satellite system was to help the United States army track, monitor and navigate easily in war zones. The GPS is the most utilized satellite system in the world, functioning from 32 satellites across six orbital planes.
GLONASS
Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) is a Russian space-based satellite navigation system built in the 70s by the Russian military. GLONASS consists of 24 operating satellites across three orbital planes, with 18 satellites covering Russian territory. GLONASS was built to provide real-time positions and speed determination to the military and civilians.
Galileo
Galileo was built by the European Union (EU) through the European GNSS Agency, and is expected to be ready by 2020, functioning from 30 satellites across six orbital planes. On its completion, it will be interoperable with the USA’S GPS and Russia’s Glonass, and it is estimated that it will be worth 260 billion pounds by 2021. The main aim of Galileo is to offer an independent highly-correct positioning system to avoid over-reliance on the GPS and the Glonass.
Also, the Galileo satellite system will deliver better accuracy by displaying longitudinal and latitudinal position measurements within 1-meter accuracy, as well as better positioning services at higher latitudes.
Having a GPS and GLONASS-compatible device gives you access to almost 55 satellites. Therefore, if you find yourself stuck on the subway or between tall buildings where GPS signals are weak, you can track yourself using GLONASS satellites instead.
Difference Between GPS and GLONASS
There are several differences between GPS and GLONASS. These differences range from ownership to level of accuracy, however, here are some of the primary differences;
Ownership
GPS was developed and is owned by the United States army, whereas GLONASS was developed by the Russian military and is owned by both military and civilians.
Total Number of Satellites
GLONASS has a total of 26 functioning satellites, whereas GPS boasts 33 satellites. Furthermore, for GPS, the number of satellites per orbital plane is 4 and are unevenly spaced. GLONASS has eight satellites per orbital plane which are evenly spaced.
Orbital Characteristics
GLONASS – The orbital radius is 25510 kilometers, and orbital height is 19130 kilometers. The orbital period is also 11 hours and 16 minutes.
GPS – Orbital radius is 26560 kilometers, orbital height is 20180 kilometers and the orbital period is 11 hours and 58 minutes.
Code Frequency
Both GPS and GLONASS have C/A and P-code frequencies. For the GPS C/A code, frequency is about 1.023MHz and the P-code frequency is 10.2MHz. On the other hand, GLONASS C/A code frequency is 0.511MHz, and P-code frequency is 5.11 MHz
Application of GNSS devices compatible with GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo
Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers, are compatible with GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, and can be used in many fields such as navigation, mapping, and surveying. For example, the military can use GPS and GLONASS receivers to guide weapons, such as booms.
Navigation
Installing a GPS, GLONASS or Galileo-compatible tracking device on moving objects, such as a car, enables you to track and monitor its movement. Here are some of the examples where tracking devices are used for navigation.
Air Transport – Tracking devices mounted on the cockpit have made it easier for aircrafts to navigate in the air. Moreover, they provide accurate information to assist pilots in landing or taking off.
Boats and Ships- For marine transport, GPS and GLONASS-compatible tracking devices are installed to display real-time ship positions and monitor maritime traffic.
Vehicles – In the 21st century, the majority of car manufacturers have produced automobiles with tracking devices suitable for GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo. According to research, tracking devices improve driving skills, therefore reducing the number of accidents.
Spacecraft – With major exploration activities happening in space, GNSS receivers are tailored to use the GPS, GLONASS and Galileo systems, which are mounted on spacecrafts to enable autonomous navigation.
Surveying and Mapping
Surveying – Surveyors may use GNSS receivers to locate buildings and roads under construction quickly.
Geophysics and Geology- tT locate actively deforming areas such as volcanoes, geologists can use tracking devices to reduce long and tedious ground movements.