Satellite Navigation vs. the Ionosphere: Where Are We, and Where Are We Going?

Abstract

This paper will address the recent results of the WAAS in the US and prototype SBAS and GBAS installations being testing in Rio de Janeiro. The focus of the paper is on the negative effects of the ionosphere, and describes some of the recent data and analysis that examine whether SBAS or GBAS can be made to operate during severe ionospheric conditions. The paper then concludes with the observation that many of these current problems will fade away when dual civilian frequency satellite constellations are available, but that some concerns related to scintillation will remain. In order to focus the research on the most pertinent problems, the future global mix of satellite navigation services for aviation need to be defined, at least in a broad level of detail.