Global Navigation Satellite Systems And Services

Abstract

This chapter introduces the concept of Satellite Navigation in the context of space infrastructures and technologies that can contribute for improvement of life on Earth. It includes a review of the motivations for developing a satellite navigation system, and the applications and services these systems have in daily life. Furthermore, currently existing Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GPS and GLONASS) and other GNSS systems under development (GALILEO) are described from different perspectives: from the technical and architectural aspects to the ways chosen to finance their development and operations. To round up this chapter, an analysis of the expected trends in GNSS systems is presented and potential scenarios for future evolution of global satellite navigation are discussed