Autonomous Predictions Realized in Navigation Receivers for the Motion of GLONASS and GPS Spacecraft

Abstract

A new algorithm for autonomous long-term predictions realized in ground navigation receivers for ephemerides of GLONASS and GPS spacecraft is developed and analyzed. The algorithm can be applied to determinations of user’s coordinates, when it is impossible or difficult to receive the spacecraft ephemerides (for example, in conditions of a bad radio-visibility of the satellites). It is shown that the accuracy of the method exceeds similar characteristics of other known solutions. It is also shown that the coefficients, which take account of the solar pressure and are specific for each satellite, differ for different generations of spacecraft. Simultaneously with parameters of the satellite motion, the Earth’s polar coordinates can be determined with the accuracy of several arc milliseconds. Using the autonomous algorithm for predictions of spacecraft ephemerides significantly advances both the search for visible GLONASS and GPS satellites and the first determination of user’s coordinates after “cold” starts of receivers. This article is based on the report presented at the conference Astrometry Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow, conducted at Sternberg Astronomical Institute, October 14–16, 2019.