Augmentation of Modernized CAPS with NavIC Over Indian Region

Abstract

India has developed its indigenous regional navigation satellite system called as Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS). IRNSS is given an operational name as Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC). NavIC satellite constellation is planned in such a way that at least four satellites are visible over India and 1500km outside its boundary. Satellite visibility of NavIC indicates its ability to provide navigation services. Knowledge of satellite visibility is vital as it is a significant parameter to analyze the accuracy of the user position. Moreover, to increase user position accuracy, the NavIC can be supplemented with other navigation satellite systems, such as Global Positioning System (GPS) of US, Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) of Russia and Chinese Area Positioning System (CAPS) of China. The CAPS is a regional navigation satellite system developed by National Astronomical Observatories of China (NAOC). This paper focuses, initially, on the analysis of satellite visibility of standalone CAPS, over India. Eventually, satellite visibility of augmented CAPS with NavIC is paid attention. Comparative analysis of CAPS and CAPS augmented with NavIC is also performed in terms of Dilution of Precision (DOP). DOP is a factor which indicates the accuracy of the user position. The augmentation has caused improvement in the satellite visibility and DOP.