IGS-MGEX: Preparing the Ground for Multi-Constellation GNSS Science

TLDR

The launch of four new constellations—BeiDou, Galileo, QZSS, and IRNSS—alongside the modernization of GPS and GLONASS is dramatically reshaping satellite navigation. The IGS launched MGEX to familiarize users with these new constellations and to prepare them for high‑precision GNSS modeling, and the paper reports the status of the constellations and MGEX as of September 2013. MGEX builds offline and real‑time network segments to support high‑precision GNSS modeling and analysis. The offline and real‑time segments built so far are described, initial data products are presented, recent results for individual systems are highlighted, and steps toward a comprehensive multi‑GNSS service are identified.

Abstract

With a total of four new and emerging constellations (BeiDou, Galileo, QZSS, IRN SS) as well as the ongoing modernization of GPS and GLONASS the world of satellite navigation presently experiences dramatic changes. Facing these challenges, the International GNSS Service (IGS) has initiated the Multi-GNSS Experiment (MGEX) to enable an early familiarization with the new systems and to prepare their incorporation into high-precision GNSS modeling and analysis. The paper reports on the status of the new constellations and the MGEX project as of September 2013. The offline and real-time segment of the multi-GNSS network built up so far are described and initial data products are presented. Recent results for individual systems are highlighted and necessary steps towards a comprehensive multi-GNSS service are identified.