Do you know which systems are included in GNSS

5 misconceptions about GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems)

❌ GNSS and GPS are identical.

✅ GPS is one of several GNSS systems; GNSS is a broad term encompassing all global navigation satellite systems.

❌ GNSS is only useful for navigation. 

✅ GNSS is also critical for precise timing in telecommunications, banking, power grids and much more.

❌ You need an internet connection to use GNSS.

✅ GNSS receivers function independently of the Internet, except when corrections are required for improving data accuracy.

❌ GNSS signals are available anywhere on Earth, even underground, and are strong and easy to detect.

✅ GNSS signals are weak and can be easily blocked by obstacles like buildings, tunnels, trees, dense foliage, or even atmospheric conditions.

❌ GNSS can’t be used in space. 

✅ GNSS is used for navigation even in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for spacecraft and satellites.

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) have revolutionized the way we navigate and orient ourselves on Earth. These systems have become an integral part of our daily lives, from guiding us on road trips to helping us find our way during outdoor activities. But how do these systems work, and what are the six major GNSS systems that power our navigation technology?

To understand the operation of a GNSS system, you must understand the basic principles behind it. GNSS systems provide positioning, navigation and timing services to users around the world through the use of satellite networks. These satellites continuously transmit signals that can be received by GNSS receivers, allowing them to calculate their precise position on Earth.

The six major GNSS systems are the United States' GPS (Global Positioning System), Russia's GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System), the European Union's Galileo, China's Beidou, India's NavIC and QZSS (Quasi Zenith Satellite System) from Japan. Each of these systems operates using similar basic principles but has some unique features and capabilities.

GPS is the most famous GNSS system and consists of 24 satellites orbiting the earth. The signals emitted by these satellites can be received by a GPS receiver to determine the user's location, speed and time. The Russian-developed GLONASS follows a similar principle but has 24 satellites. Galileo is the European Union's GNSS system, designed to provide independent and high-precision positioning systems for civilian and military use.

China's Beidou system consists of 35 satellites with global coverage and is designed to provide services for transportation, agriculture and disaster relief. India's NavIC system consists of seven satellites, whose main purpose is to provide precise positioning services in India and surrounding areas. Finally, Japan's QZSS system is designed to improve the accuracy and reliability of GPS in the Asia-Oceania region by using a combination of geostationary and tilt satellites.

These six GNSS systems operate by transmitting signals from their respective satellites to ground-based GNSS receivers. The receiver then uses signals from multiple satellites to calculate their precise positions through a process called trilateration. By measuring the time it takes for signals to travel from satellites to the receiver, the receiver can determine its distance from each satellite and triangulate its position on Earth.

In addition to providing positioning and navigation services, GNSS systems also play a vital role in various industries such as aviation, agriculture, surveying and telecommunications. They enable precise timing synchronization of telecommunications networks, facilitate efficient agricultural practices through precision agriculture, and support safe and accurate navigation of aircraft and ships.

In summary, the six major GNSS systems—GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, NavIC, and QZSS—have revolutionized the way we navigate and position ourselves on Earth. These systems operate by using satellite networks to transmit signals to GNSS receivers, allowing users to determine their precise position, speed and time. As technology continues to advance, GNSS systems will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of global navigation and positioning services.