European GNSS Agency

The Galileo Reference Centre (GRC), to be located in the Netherlands, will play a crucial role in monitoring Galileo’s performance. The European GNSS Agency (GSA) made the announcement during this week’s European Space Solutions conference in The Hague. 

This week during the 4th European Space Solutions conference in The Hague, the GSA announced the establishment of the Galileo Reference Centre (GRC) in Noordwijk, the Netherlands. The GRC’s core mission is to perform independent monitoring of Galileo’s performance and report on its findings. 

European Commissioner for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs Elżbieta Bieńkowska and Dutch Minister of Infrastructure and the Environment Melanie Schultz van Haegen joined GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides to officially sign the GRC hosting agreement during the conference’s opening session.  

“The use of space data is becoming more urgent and relevant in many areas, for example in maritime safety and smart mobility,” says Minister Schultz van Haegen. “The Galileo Reference Centre will help ensure the provision of high quality satellite data so users can better rely on and benefit from Galileo.”

With Galileo Initial Services set to be declared this year, the GRC will play a pivotal role in the programme’s operations. “When operational, the GRC will provide the GSA with an independent system to evaluate the performance of the Galileo Service Operator and the quality of the signals in space,” says des Dorides. 

GRC’s core facility in Noordwijk will also actively integrate contributions from the EU Member States, Norway and Switzerland. The core facility is charged with generating performance evaluation products, reporting and performing dedicated campaign-based analyses. It will also rely on a range of facilities and expertise available in the Member States. 

The GRC will be implemented using a versioning approach. The first step is expected to be in place at the time of declaration of Galileo Initial Services. The core facility is set to become operational in 2017.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

French start-up UBISCALE was named the winner of the first GSA “IoT Solutions empowered by GNSS” award at the 2016 GEO IoT conference.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is everywhere, connecting smartphones, tablets and industrial and home appliances, and making roads, cities, factories and appliances smarter. In every sector of the economy, IoT is enabling objects to exchange data with manufacturers, operators and other devices to create a vast integrated network of connected things and services that is expected to surpass a volume of 50 billion by 2020.

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) such as Galileo and EGNOS play a key role in IoT, providing the positioning, velocity and timing information required by an increasing number of context-aware applications.

To raise awareness of the integral role that GNSS plays in IoT, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) sponsored the IoT Solutions empowered by GNSS award within the GEO IoT World conference on 25-26 May in Brussels.

“Galileo brings IoT better accuracy and availability due to its signal strength in such difficult environments as in the city, as well as an authenticated open signal,” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides. “With this award, the GSA was looking for the most innovative IoT applications that rely on GNSS and leverage the enhanced possibilities offered by Galileo – and we found such an application in UBISCALE, this year’s winning company.”

Power saving solution

At the centre of this winning concept is the UbiGNSS™ technology and service that enables true low‐power GNSS‐based IoT services. The UbiGNSS™ solution’s essential insight is that for tracking applications, the device itself does not need to know its position, although the service side tracking applications does.

“From this assessment, we achieved power‐optimised GNSS pre‐processing for end‐devices and shifted the actual calculation of the position to a cloud‐based server, while sustaining the low data rate of Low‐Power Wide‐Area Networking (LPWAN),” says UBISCALE General Manager Samuel Ryckewaert who, along with CTO Mikaël Guenais, received the award during a special ceremony in Brussels. “In comparison to architecture based on GNSS computing the position at the device, the combination of GNSS and LPWAN used in UbiGNSS™ can cut power consumption by ten times, which enables unprecedented battery‐operated and truly cost‐effective tracking applications.”

UbiGNSS™ technology has been engineered to be compatible with all major GNSS systems, but the company anticipates that Galileo, thanks to its modulations and signal strength, will provide additional benefits, especially in terms of urban and other challenging environments.

The company is also anticipating a swift entry into the market. “With the advent of LPWAN networks, we believe our entry is arriving at the right time on the market,” says Guenais. “LPWAN networks are expected to represent 25% of total IoT connectivity by 2020 and will unleash a large volume of opportunities in lower-end devices.”

As well as working with new tracking devices, the UbiGNSS™ solution can also be applied to existing trackers as a firmware upgrade.

In reaching their verdict, the jury, which included GSA Market Development Officer for IoT and LBS Justyna Redelkiewicz and other industry experts, praised the UBISCALE solution, saying: “Power consumption is one of the main barriers for GNSS adoption in IoT.  As this project tackles this problem, we think it will have a huge impact on the market.”

In recognition of their achievement, the company received a GSA ‘prism’ trophy and certificate. In addition, UBISCALE will be funded for a business incubation period tailored around their needs, which could include market analysis, business strategy and business plan development, resource mobilisation strategy and international positioning. Furthermore, the company will have access to networking opportunities with industry and investors, investor relations and investor scouting, a dedicated team of GSA-accredited consultants and coaches, along with an extensive network of industry and institutions – all specialised in the GEO IoT market.

EAGLE award

In addition to the main prize, the GSA also announced a special prize awarded to the EAGLE (Enhanced Authentication with GaLileo dEvice) device, entered by Italian venture SpaceEXE. This concept integrates a high‐precision GNSS receiver with the capability of authenticating position through the GNSS satellite signal recording, the I.D. satellite tracked, and their position in orbit.

The application will enable local authorities to create ‘Fluid Limited Traffic Zones’ to dynamically regulate access to city centres, thus setting a new standard for city mobility. The technological novelty of the product is the civil use of authentication of the Galileo GNSS signal, paired with a massive cloud based system capable of monitoring multiple vehicles in real time. “The idea of this project is very interesting since it provides flexibility for city traffic management while leveraging Galileo Open Service authentication,” says Redelkiewicz.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Speaking at this week’s Geospatial World Forum in Rotterdam, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) discussed the many benefits that EGNOS and Galileo offer the geospatial sector and, specifically, the surveying and mapping domains.

Speaking at the Geospatial World Forum, the premiere event for the geospatial sector, the GSA highlighted the multiple benefits that such European GNSS programmes as Galileo and EGNOS bring to European surveyors, as well as illustrating synergies with the EU Earth Observation programme Copernicus. Topics discussed included how to increase industry adoption of GNSS, how to better meet user needs, and the integration of E-GNSS into geospatial equipment and end products.

Although all of these topics are of interest to surveyors, the topic on the top of everyone’s mind was the status of Galileo – and the GSA came bringing good news.

As two additional Galileo satellites were launched just that morning, Galileo satellites 13 and 14 will be followed by the launch of four more satellites later this year, with the declaration of Galileo Initial Services expected in the autumn. “Currently 80% of all GNSS receivers for surveying and mapping are EGNOS enabled and 45% are already Galileo enabled. This confirmed that the sector is well-positioned to benefit from of the Galileo services” says the GSA.

Galileo’s improved signal robustness, varying levels of authentication and its Commercial Service’s high-accuracy receiver error below one decimetre are all features that will greatly benefit geospatial users. According to a recent GSA survey, 78% of respondents say they will be ready to use Galileo signals by 2017.

    Read also: EGNOS – A cost effective solution for GIS

As a prelude to what is in store for surveyors, the Swedish Cartographic Society reported that the Swedish surveyors are already anticipating how Galileo will help them for surveying in cities and other difficult environments. Most of the reference stations of SWEPOS, the Swedish national reference network provider, are fully equipped with Galileo-capable receivers.

However, Galileo will not operate in a vacuum. Not only is it interoperable with other GNSS systems, it also offers numerous synergies with the EU’s Copernicus Earth Observation system – particularly for the geospatial sector. “There is a huge potential for synergies between geopositioning and surface imaging,” says Dufourmont, Project Manager Copernicus Land Monitoring Services of the European Environment Agency. “For example, the sector is currently using both systems to track animals and monitor migration paths before making development decisions.”

Collaboration and support

To ensure the surveying community takes full advantage of all that Galileo and EGNOS have to offer, the GSA and the Council of European Geodetic Surveyors (CLGE) continue to collaborate. For example, GSA awards the special Galileo prize in the framework of the annual CLGE Young Surveyor Prize. Last year’s winner, Laura van de Vyvere of M3 Systems in Belgium, made innovative use of Galileo's unique four frequency signals to improve positioning in harsh ionospheric conditions.

GSA aims at responding to end-users’ needs and it therefore established a unique interface Galileo systems and users: the GSC (European GNSS Service Centre). The GSC is the platform where users can get information about the Galileo system status and performances, system documents and it includes a helpdesk.

The GSA is further supporting the uptake of European GNSS in the surveying sector via various funding mechanisms. For example, the Horizon 2020 LARA project is bringing together GNSS, augmented reality and 3D GIS geo-databases to show utility workers operating in the field what lies below the service – allowing them to know where it is safe to dig. MapKITE, another Horizon 2020 project, is bringing together terrestrial and aerial mapping systems, such remote payloads as LIDAR and GNSS systems for simultaneous geodata acquisition. 

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

With the Netherlands’ renowned biking culture and the upcoming summer European cycling season, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is talking GNSS and biking during the European Space Expo, part of the 2016 European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague.

In celebration of the Netherland’s vibrant biking culture and the upcoming start of such grand European bicycle races as the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia, the European Space Expo will feature a special exhibition about the use of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) in biking during its stop in The Hague.

During the expo, Space Solutions for Biking: Empowering Smart 2-Wheels! will highlight innovative applications powered by satellite navigation and Earth observation technologies that enhance the experience, increase the accessibility and safety of biking, and connect bikes to the Internet of Things (IoT). The event is being held in conjunction with the 2016 European Space Solutions Conference, co-hosted by the European Commission and the GSA, under the auspices of Dutch Presidency of the Council of the EU. It will showcase innovative solutions for smart bike sharing, smart bike riding, smart motorbike riders, and smart IoT for bikes.

With the upcoming declaration of Galileo Initial Services, the role of GNSS in biking is set to increase, as will be seen by such exhibiting projects as BikePredict, a mobile application that makes self-service bike riding easy by giving information on the number of available bikes and docks both in real-time and the near future. Another exhibiting company is Bike Citizens, an app designed by bike couriers to cater to the needs of cyclists in cities, favouring cycle paths and side streets over busy main streets. REALRIDER®, who will also be exhibiting during the expo, is a motorcycle app that keeps riders safe and connected and includes built-in lifesaving crash detection technology linked to emergency services. Last but not least, Satsafe™, a GNSS-based security application for bikers, will also be featured.

GNSS for the biking commuter

With more than two-thirds of Europe’s population living in cities, cycling provides a viable, sustainable solution to such challenges as congestion, air and noise pollution, accidents, infrastructure expenses and road maintenance. For this reason, non-motorised transport such as cycling is seen as a key factor to guaranteeing mobility for all and overcoming these urban challenges. 

One EU-funded project, Space-tech for cycling, is helping to better position cycling as a viable form of transport in the public eye. To do this, it is developing an integrated solution that includes weather forecasts and a GNSS-tracks-analysis tool. The project utilises GNSS technology to track a cyclist’s routes and speed, obtain information regarding distance travelled and altitude variations, and identify the mode of transportation used. The system also makes use of Earth observation technology to provide the user with accurate weather forecasting and monitoring. The system combines these two space technologies in one easy-to-use app, which converts the gathered data into a ‘bike impact score’ that qualifies the user for such prizes as event vouchers and discounts at participating retail outlets.

Learn more at the European Space Expo

To learn more about the many ways European GNSS is impacting how Europe bikes, be sure to visit the European Space Expo in The Hague from 27 May to 5 June. The Space Solutions for Biking event takes place on Tuesday, 31 May, from 17:30 to 19:30.

Over 900 000 European citizens from across Europe have already visited the European Space Expo, learning how European space policy and space-based technologies benefit our everyday lives, support the European economy and create jobs.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The Horizon 2020-funded BELS project is inviting European GNSS companies to come to South East Asia and visit the NAVIS Centre. 

According to the most recent edition of the European GNSS Agency’s (GSA) GNSS market report, Asia is the ‘hot spot’ for global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). In fact, it is currently the primary region of global market growth in terms of in-use GNSS devices. The region is forecasted to grow 11 % per year, from 1.7 billion devices in 2014 to 4.1 billion in 2023 – more than the EU and North America combined. Furthermore, the GSA notes that the region is becoming increasingly active in chipset manufacturing, along with building their own constellations.

In other words, Asia is an important market for GNSS, and the GSA is dedicated to ensuring European businesses are in a position to benefit from it.

Building bridges

Spearheading this effort is the Horizon 2020-funded BELS project. Committed to bringing European GNSS (E-GNSS) companies to South East Asia, the project aims to facilitate the breakthrough of E-GNSS technology by conducting a set of coordinated activities for raising awareness and capacity building. The BELS consortium is gathering the top GNSS universities and research institutes together to offer doctorate (PhD) partnering programmes, training opportunities, and placements for students at EU and Asian companies.

For companies seeking to collaborate on GNSS research and development (R&D), BELS also operates NAVIS, a dedicated GNSS R&D centre located in Hanoi, Vietnam. The facility is available for both testing and research activities, and as a hub for establishing new links with regional GNSS stakeholders. A motivated young team of researchers, which has regular exchanges with European universities, completes the picture.

A unique invitation

Although several EU receiver manufacturers have used the opportunity to co-locate their receivers at NAVIS, as the location is particularly suitable for testing the multi-constellation function, there’s plenty of room for more. To promote this unique opportunity, the project has launched its first call for expressions of interest, where European GNSS companies can receive vouchers to visit the NAVIS Centre. The purpose of the visit is to provide a company with the opportunity to experience the centre and all that it offers in terms of serving as a testbed for their GNSS equipment and solutions prior to making a commitment to relocate some of their activities to the centre.

“This first call is the perfect opportunity for a company to come to the NAVIS centre and see if it’s a good fit for them,” says Baerbel Deisting, one of the project’s coordinators. “This will be followed by a second call, where these companies can apply to receive vouchers to conduct testing of their GNSS solutions at the centre and network with stakeholders here in South East Asia.”  

The details

The call is open to any EU-based company working with E-GNSS equipment and solutions and with a commercial interest in South East Asia. Successful applicants will receive financial support via a voucher worth up to EUR 2 500. Applicants can apply at any time during the year, with applications being evaluated every 3 months. The call will be closed once the available budget has been fully allocated. The first evaluation will occur in May. In order to be considered, companies should provide a short company profile, proof of activity in the field of E-GNSS, a letter of motivation, CV and suggested timeframe for the visit.

More information can be found here.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The Horizon 2020-funded BELS project is inviting European GNSS companies to come to South East Asia and visit the NAVIS Centre. 

According to the most recent edition of the European GNSS Agency’s (GSA) GNSS market report, Asia is the ‘hot spot’ for global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). In fact, it is currently the primary region of global market growth in terms of in-use GNSS devices. The region is forecasted to grow 11 % per year, from 1.7 billion devices in 2014 to 4.1 billion in 2023 – more than the EU and North America combined. Furthermore, the GSA notes that the region is becoming increasingly active in chipset manufacturing, along with building their own constellations.

In other words, Asia is an important market for GNSS, and the GSA is dedicated to ensuring European businesses are in a position to benefit from it.

Building bridges

Spearheading this effort is the Horizon 2020-funded BELS project. Committed to bringing European GNSS (E-GNSS) companies to South East Asia, the project aims to facilitate the breakthrough of E-GNSS technology by conducting a set of coordinated activities for raising awareness and capacity building. The BELS consortium is gathering the top GNSS universities and research institutes together to offer doctorate (PhD) partnering programmes, training opportunities, and placements for students at EU and Asian companies.

For companies seeking to collaborate on GNSS research and development (R&D), BELS also operates NAVIS, a dedicated GNSS R&D centre located in Hanoi, Vietnam. The facility is available for both testing and research activities, and as a hub for establishing new links with regional GNSS stakeholders. A motivated young team of researchers, which has regular exchanges with European universities, completes the picture.

A unique invitation

Although several EU receiver manufacturers have used the opportunity to co-locate their receivers at NAVIS, as the location is particularly suitable for testing the multi-constellation function, there’s plenty of room for more. To promote this unique opportunity, the project has launched its first call for expressions of interest, where European GNSS companies can receive vouchers to visit the NAVIS Centre. The purpose of the visit is to provide a company with the opportunity to experience the centre and all that it offers in terms of serving as a testbed for their GNSS equipment and solutions prior to making a commitment to relocate some of their activities to the centre.

“This first call is the perfect opportunity for a company to come to the NAVIS centre and see if it’s a good fit for them,” says Baerbel Deisting, one of the project’s coordinators. “This will be followed by a second call, where these companies can apply to receive vouchers to conduct testing of their GNSS solutions at the centre and network with stakeholders here in South East Asia.”  

The details

The call is open to any EU-based company working with E-GNSS equipment and solutions and with a commercial interest in South East Asia. Successful applicants will receive financial support via a voucher worth up to EUR 2 500. Applicants can apply at any time during the year, with applications being evaluated every 3 months. The call will be closed once the available budget has been fully allocated. The first evaluation will occur in May. In order to be considered, companies should provide a short company profile, proof of activity in the field of E-GNSS, a letter of motivation, CV and suggested timeframe for the visit.

More information can be found here.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The Horizon 2020-funded BELS project is inviting European GNSS companies to come to South East Asia and visit the NAVIS Centre. 

According to the most recent edition of the European GNSS Agency’s (GSA) GNSS market report, Asia is the ‘hot spot’ for global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). In fact, it is currently the primary region of global market growth in terms of in-use GNSS devices. The region is forecasted to grow 11 % per year, from 1.7 billion devices in 2014 to 4.1 billion in 2023 – more than the EU and North America combined. Furthermore, the GSA notes that the region is becoming increasingly active in chipset manufacturing, along with building their own constellations.

In other words, Asia is an important market for GNSS, and the GSA is dedicated to ensuring European businesses are in a position to benefit from it.

Building bridges

Spearheading this effort is the Horizon 2020-funded BELS project. Committed to bringing European GNSS (E-GNSS) companies to South East Asia, the project aims to facilitate the breakthrough of E-GNSS technology by conducting a set of coordinated activities for raising awareness and capacity building. The BELS consortium is gathering the top GNSS universities and research institutes together to offer doctorate (PhD) partnering programmes, training opportunities, and placements for students at EU and Asian companies.

For companies seeking to collaborate on GNSS research and development (R&D), BELS also operates NAVIS, a dedicated GNSS R&D centre located in Hanoi, Vietnam. The facility is available for both testing and research activities, and as a hub for establishing new links with regional GNSS stakeholders. A motivated young team of researchers, which has regular exchanges with European universities, completes the picture.

A unique invitation

Although several EU receiver manufacturers have used the opportunity to co-locate their receivers at NAVIS, as the location is particularly suitable for testing the multi-constellation function, there’s plenty of room for more. To promote this unique opportunity, the project has launched its first call for expressions of interest, where European GNSS companies can receive vouchers to visit the NAVIS Centre. The purpose of the visit is to provide a company with the opportunity to experience the centre and all that it offers in terms of serving as a testbed for their GNSS equipment and solutions prior to making a commitment to relocate some of their activities to the centre.

“This first call is the perfect opportunity for a company to come to the NAVIS centre and see if it’s a good fit for them,” says Baerbel Deisting, one of the project’s coordinators. “This will be followed by a second call, where these companies can apply to receive vouchers to conduct testing of their GNSS solutions at the centre and network with stakeholders here in South East Asia.”  

The details

The call is open to any EU-based company working with E-GNSS equipment and solutions and with a commercial interest in South East Asia. Successful applicants will receive financial support via a voucher worth up to EUR 2 500. Applicants can apply at any time during the year, with applications being evaluated every 3 months. The call will be closed once the available budget has been fully allocated. The first evaluation will occur in May. In order to be considered, companies should provide a short company profile, proof of activity in the field of E-GNSS, a letter of motivation, CV and suggested timeframe for the visit.

More information can be found here.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Service Centre recently played host to a delegation of US and EU officials dedicated to promoting cooperation on the design and development of the next generation of GNSS systems.

The European GNSS Service Centre (GSC) recently hosted the 13th meeting of the European Union and the United States Working Group C (EU-US WG-C) on next GNSS generation. The group, which promotes cooperation on the design and development of the next generation of civil satellite-based navigation and timing systems, makes recommendations to ensure that GPS and Galileo services are interoperable for the benefit of civil users around the world.

One of the WG-C’s current objectives is the development of integrated applications for Safety-of-Life services. To meet this objective, the group established the Advanced Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring Technical Subgroup (ARAIM TSG). Two full days were dedicated to the subgroup and its focus on the development of the ARAIM system.

In addition to the ARAIM TSG meeting, the WG-C agenda included a plenary session on the status of system interoperability, along with a dedicated session on best practices in SBAS service delivery (EGNOS in Europe and WAAS in the US).

Over 30 participants from both sides of the Atlantic participated in the meeting, which took place at the GSC facility near Madrid – the first official meeting to be held at the new premises. The next EU-US WG-C meeting is scheduled for 25-27 October 2016 at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California.

About the GSC

The GSC is run by the European GNSS Agency (GSA). It was created to provide an interface between the Galileo system and its end users. The aim of the GSC is to provide system users with relevant information on Galileo. Through the easy to use GSC web portal, Galileo users can access a Helpdesk dedicated to addressing a wide range of questions on Galileo status and use. The Centre also actively provides support to R&D and industry from its centre of expertise, as well as hosts workshops and training sessions.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Service Centre recently played host to a delegation of US and EU officials dedicated to promoting cooperation on the design and development of the next generation of GNSS systems.

The European GNSS Service Centre (GSC) recently hosted the 13th meeting of the European Union and the United States Working Group C (EU-US WG-C) on next GNSS generation. The group, which promotes cooperation on the design and development of the next generation of civil satellite-based navigation and timing systems, makes recommendations to ensure that GPS and Galileo services are interoperable for the benefit of civil users around the world.

One of the WG-C’s current objectives is the development of integrated applications for Safety-of-Life services. To meet this objective, the group established the Advanced Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring Technical Subgroup (ARAIM TSG). Two full days were dedicated to the subgroup and its focus on the development of the ARAIM system.

In addition to the ARAIM TSG meeting, the WG-C agenda included a plenary session on the status of system interoperability, along with a dedicated session on best practices in SBAS service delivery (EGNOS in Europe and WAAS in the US).

Over 30 participants from both sides of the Atlantic participated in the meeting, which took place at the GSC facility near Madrid – the first official meeting to be held at the new premises. The next EU-US WG-C meeting is scheduled for 25-27 October 2017 at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California.

About the GSC

The GSC is run by the European GNSS Agency (GSC). It was created to provide an interface between the Galileo system and its end users. The aim of the GSC is to provide system users with relevant information on Galileo. Through the easy to use GSC web portal, Galileo users can access a Helpdesk dedicated to addressing a wide range of questions on Galileo status and use. The Centre also actively provides support to R&D and industry from its centre of expertise, as well as hosts workshops and training sessions.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

This week, the International Maritime Organisation recognised Galileo as part of the World Wide Radio Navigation System.

With the declaration of Initial Services just months away, the Galileo programme received an important recognition this week from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). The IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) voted to recognise the Galileo Open and Search and Rescue (SAR) services as part of the World Wide Radio Navigation System (WWRNS). 
According to the European GNSS Agency (GSA), this recognition marks an important milestone for the adoption of Galileo for use in commercial shipping. Not only does it encourage a broader use of multi-constellation solutions for all users, by doing so, it also improves safety at sea. “This recognition is the result of a coordinated effort at the European level, involving the European Commission and the GSA, along with strong support from the Member States,” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides. “The GSA played an important role in supporting the European Commission in the preparation of the rationale and the technical support.” 

With this recognition, Galileo joins the ranks of GPS, GLONASS and Beidou as being a part of the WWRNS. “This is a real milestone for the market uptake of Galileo in the maritime sector, and we are now ready to continue with EGNOS,” adds des Dorides.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

European GNSS Agency Executive Director Carlo des Dorides recently spoke about the important role that Galileo and EGNOS play in the equipment that powers civil aviation.

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) recently joined over 130 delegates at the European Organisation for Civil Aviation Equipment (EUROCAE) Symposium in Vienna, Austria. The event included several keynote addresses, along with policy sessions focused on five key topics: flight tracking, runway safety, cyber security, remotely piloted air systems (RPASs) and space travel.

“The environment is changing and the demand on developing standards is increasing,” said EUROCAE Secretary General Christian Schleifer-Heingärtner. “International regulations from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and regional regulations from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) are becoming more performance-based and standards developing organisations (SDOs) are called in to provide the ‘how to comply’ with these performance-based regulations.” As a result, Schleifer-Heingärtner says that EUROCAE has expanded its domain of activities from only electronic on-board equipment to a much wider range of ground equipment, aerodromes, MET/AIM, RPAS, security, system-wide information management (SWIM) and fuel cells.

During his keynote address, GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides highlighted the important role that the GSA’s focus on user needs plays within the EUROCAE mission. “The GSA is leading the EUROCAE Galileo working group, which is focused on the development of standards for satellite-based augmentation systems [SBAS],” he said. “This work is key to allowing us to directly meet with the receiver manufacturing industry and other international partners to make sure we can be part of producing the right standards for aviation satellite navigation receivers.”

He further noted how the GSA and EUROCAE are working to build a win-win strategy for Europe. For example, as Europe was the first to deploy new technology using SBAS to augment both Galileo and GPS, it gives the continent a unique opportunity to set the standard and for European industry to become the first to provide this technology for aviation receivers. He specifically noted that other regions, including China and Japan, are working on deploying similar SBAS systems. It means  that the ‘first out of the gate’ on standards will have a better chance of securing important market share.

“We are aware that it takes time for industry to develop safety equipment and that the return-on-investment for this equipment is a long-term vision,” he said. “Thus, we have to set up ways to incentivise aviation receiver manufacturers, such as through the various tenders and grants issued by the GSA, to start prototyping now.”

Sending out a SAR

Des Dorides noted that with Galileo Initial Services set to be declared later this year, further opportunities will be created via the Galileo Search and Rescue (SAR) service, which serves as Europe’s contribution to the international COSPAS-SARSAT cooperative effort on humanitarian SAR activities. In fact, Galileo will be the first constellation providing SAR services as part of the Medium Earth Orbit Search and Rescue (MEOSAR) satellite system, thus increasing the efficiency of SAR activities and, ultimately, saving more lives.

“The GSA is actively fostering the adoption of Galileo SAR capabilities by contributing to the development of MEOSAR technologies and specialty beacons,” he said. “The GSA has already funded four Galileo SAR projects under the Horizon 2020 funding initiative, and a call for proposals on MEOSAR beacon prototyping will be launched in October 2016, with a total budget of EUR 4 million, under the GSA’s Fundamental Elements funding programme.”

Partnering for opportunities   

In conclusion, des Dorides noted that there are many opportunities for civil aviation equipment manufacturers through both the EGNOS and Galileo programmes. “We see our relationship with EUROCAE as a partnership that will allow us to bring the benefits of satellite navigation to aviation for the foreseeable future.”

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces that the first LPV-200 approaches were implemented at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG) on 3 May – the first such approaches to be implemented in Europe.

The GSA announces that the first LPV-200 approaches were implemented at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG) on 3 May – the first such approaches to be implemented in Europe. LPV-200 enables aircraft approach procedures that are operationally equivalent to CAT I instrument landing system (ILS) procedures. This allows for lateral and angular vertical guidance during the final approach segment (FAS) without requiring visual contact with the ground until reaching a decision height (DH) of only 200 feet above the runway. (The minima for localiser performance with vertical guidance, or LPV, are as low as 200 feet.)

These EGNOS (European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service)-based approaches are considered ILS look-alikes, as the LPV-200 service level is compliant with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annex 10 Category I precision approach performance requirements, but without the need for the expensive ground infrastructure required for ILS.

“EGNOS LPV-200 is now the most cost-effective and safest solution for airports requiring CAT I approach procedures,” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides. “The involvement of major aircraft manufacturers confirms that this service is a real added-value for civil aviation, setting the basis for a better rationalisation of nav-aids in European airports.”

The announcement of the approach implementation follows the publication of the EGNOS-based procedures on 28 April. 

An important milestone

“The LPV-200 service provides European airports with the means to implement the most demanding precision-based navigation operations as defined by the ICAO,” explains EGNOS Service Provider (ESSP) CEO Thierry Racaud.

DSNA, the French Air Navigation Service Provider, pioneered the procedures as an outcome of the work that was co-financed by the European Union and carried out since the GSA declared the EGNOS LPV-200 service operational on 29 September 2015.

“The new LPV-200 approach procedures now implemented at LFPG aim to demonstrate that the satellite-based augmentation systems [SBAS], such as EGNOS in Europe, is a Category I performance approach solution that is reliable,” says Maurice Georges, DSNA CEO. “We are convinced that SBAS is a fundamental technology to modernise our navigation infrastructure and, following this first implementation, LPV-200 approach procedures will be progressively deployed over our IFR runway-ends network."

Pilot approved

The approach has been flown by an ATR 42-600, Dassault Falcon 2000 and Airbus A350, with positive pilot feedback.  “The LPV system is much more stable and more reliable in terms of safety, but also more efficient than the ILS approach,” says ATR Chief Pilot Eric Delesalle after completing the first LPV-200 landing on runway 26L at LFPG. “It really makes a difference.”

According to Delesalle, LPV approaches offer pilots several distinct advantages over an ILS approach. For instance, the LPV system allows one to land at more runways, even in low visibility conditions, and LPV gives a pilot the accuracy of an ILS without the problems of localiser or glide slope interference. “With LPV, pilots can use GPS navigation during all phases of an approach, meaning they do not have to switch between autopilot modes while preparing the approach, thus our overall workload is reduced and room for human error is reduced” he adds.

“Airbus is pleased to have demonstrated that the A350 XWB complies with the new RNAV (GNSS) approaches with satellite-based augmentation, as implemented at Paris Charles de Gaulle,” adds Airbus Experimental Test Pilot Jean-Christophe Lair. “These approaches will be a valuable back-up to the airport’s traditional ILS approaches and will maximise runway availability for the A350 by maintaining CAT 1 capability, down to a 200 feet decision height, even when the ILS ground station is not available.”

View more images in our Image Gallery.

According to Dassault Flight Test Pilot Jean-Louis Dumas, from a pilot point of view, there is no difference between ILS and LPV approaches as the design of the Falcon EASY cockpit and the overall workload is exactly the same for both. “The accuracy and stability of the LPV guidance is really amazing,” says Dumas. “Lowering the LPV minima down to 200 feet in Europe is a great improvement enabled by EGNOS, and is very valuable for business aviation operations.”

In order to take advantage of LPV approaches, a pilot must undergo a specific initial training to learn all GPS-related navigation specifications, including LPV 200 procedures. However, as all three test pilots confirmed, as LPV approaches were intentionally developed as ILS look-alike, pilots are able to quickly transfer and adjust their skills to the new generation of LPV approaches.

Paving the way for future implementation

The GSA expects that by launching the first LPV-200 procedure at such an international hub as Charles de Gaulle will pave the way for the publication of additional LPV-200 service-level procedures at other European airports. In fact, it is already confirmed that Vienna International (LOWW) is set to be the next airport to publish LPV-200 procedures.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces that the first LPV-200 approaches were implemented at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG) on 3 May – the first such approaches to be implemented in Europe.

The GSA announces that the first LPV-200 approaches were implemented at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG) on 3 May – the first such approaches to be implemented in Europe. LPV-200 enables aircraft approach procedures that are operationally equivalent to CAT I instrument landing system (ILS) procedures. This allows for lateral and angular vertical guidance during the final approach segment (FAS) without requiring visual contact with the ground until reaching a decision height (DH) of only 200 feet above the runway. (The minima for localiser performance with vertical guidance, or LPV, are as low as 200 feet.)

These EGNOS (European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service)-based approaches are considered ILS look-alikes, as the LPV-200 service level is compliant with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annex 10 Category I precision approach performance requirements, but without the need for the expensive ground infrastructure required for ILS.

“EGNOS LPV-200 is now the most cost-effective and safest solution for airports requiring CAT I approach procedures,” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides. “The involvement of major aircraft manufacturers confirms that this service is a real added-value for civil aviation, setting the basis for a better rationalisation of nav-aids in European airports.”

The announcement of the approach implementation follows the publication of the EGNOS-based procedures on 28 April. 

An important milestone

“The LPV-200 service provides European airports with the means to implement the most demanding precision-based navigation operations as defined by the ICAO,” explains EGNOS Service Provider (ESSP) CEO Thierry Racaud.

DSNA, the French Air Navigation Service Provider, pioneered the procedures as an outcome of the work that was co-financed by the European Union and carried out since the GSA declared the EGNOS LPV-200 service operational on 29 September 2015.

“The new LPV-200 approach procedures now implemented at LFPG aim to demonstrate that the satellite-based augmentation systems [SBAS], such as EGNOS in Europe, is a Category I performance approach solution that is reliable,” says Maurice Georges, DSNA CEO. “We are convinced that SBAS is a fundamental technology to modernise our navigation infrastructure and, following this first implementation, LPV-200 approach procedures will be progressively deployed over our IFR runway-ends network."

Pilot approved

The approach has been flown by an ATR 42-600, Dassault Falcon 2000 and Airbus A350, with positive pilot feedback.  “The LPV -200 system is much more stable and more reliable in terms of safety, but also more efficient than the ILS approach,” says ATR Chief Pilot Eric Delesalle after completing the first LPV-200 landing on runway 26L at LFPG. “It really makes a difference.”

According to Delesalle, LPV approaches offer pilots several distinct advantages over an ILS approach. For instance, the LPV system allows one to land at more runways, even in low visibility conditions, and LPV gives a pilot the accuracy of an ILS without the problems of localiser or glide slope interference. “With LPV, pilots can use GPS navigation during all phases of an approach, meaning they do not have to switch between autopilot modes while preparing the approach, thus our overall workload is reduced and room for human error is reduced” he adds.

“Airbus is pleased to have demonstrated that the A350 XWB complies with the new RNAV (GNSS) approaches with satellite-based augmentation, as implemented at Paris Charles de Gaulle,” adds Airbus Experimental Test Pilot Jean-Christophe Lair. “These approaches will be a valuable back-up to the airport’s traditional ILS approaches and will maximise runway availability for the A350 by maintaining CAT 1 capability, down to a 200 feet decision height, even when the ILS ground station is not available.”

View more images in our Image Gallery.

According to Dassault Flight Test Pilot Jean-Louis Dumas, from a pilot point of view, there is no difference between ILS and LPV approaches as the design of the Falcon EASY cockpit and the overall workload is exactly the same for both. “The accuracy and stability of the LPV guidance is really amazing,” says Dumas. “Lowering the LPV minima down to 200 feet in Europe is a great improvement enabled by EGNOS, and is very valuable for business aviation operations.”

In order to take advantage of LPV approaches, a pilot must undergo a specific initial training to learn all GPS-related navigation specifications, including LPV 200 procedures. However, as all three test pilots confirmed, as LPV approaches were intentionally developed as ILS look-alike, pilots are able to quickly transfer and adjust their skills to the new generation of LPV approaches.

Paving the way for future implementation

The GSA expects that by launching the first LPV-200 procedure at such an international hub as Charles de Gaulle will pave the way for the publication of additional LPV-200 service-level procedures at other European airports. In fact, it is already confirmed that Vienna International (LOWW) is set to be the next airport to publish LPV-200 procedures.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces that the first LPV-200 approaches were implemented at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG) on 3 May – the first such approaches to be implemented in Europe.

The GSA announces that the first LPV-200 approaches were implemented at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG) on 3 May – the first such approaches to be implemented in Europe. LPV-200 enables aircraft approach procedures that are operationally equivalent to CAT I instrument landing system (ILS) procedures. This allows for lateral and angular vertical guidance during the final approach segment (FAS) without requiring visual contact with the ground until reaching a decision height (DH) of only 200 feet above the runway. (The minima for localiser performance with vertical guidance, or LPV, are as low as 200 feet.)

These EGNOS (European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service)-based approaches are considered ILS look-alikes, as the LPV-200 service level is compliant with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annex 10 Category I precision approach performance requirements, but without the need for the expensive ground infrastructure required for ILS.

“EGNOS LPV-200 is now the most cost-effective and safest solution for airports requiring CAT I approach procedures,” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides. “The involvement of major aircraft manufacturers confirms that this service is a real added-value for civil aviation, setting the basis for a better rationalisation of nav-aids in European airports.”

The announcement of the approach implementation follows the publication of the EGNOS-based procedures on 28 April. 

An important milestone

“The LPV-200 service provides European airports with the means to implement the most demanding precision-based navigation operations as defined by the ICAO,” explains EGNOS Service Provider (ESSP) CEO Thierry Racaud.

DSNA, the French Air Navigation Service Provider, pioneered the procedures as an outcome of the work that was co-financed by the European Union and carried out since the GSA declared the EGNOS LPV-200 service operational on 29 September 2015.

“The new LPV-200 approach procedures now implemented at LFPG aim to demonstrate that the satellite-based augmentation systems [SBAS], such as EGNOS in Europe, is a Category I performance approach solution that is reliable,” says Maurice Georges, DSNA CEO. “We are convinced that SBAS is a fundamental technology to modernise our navigation infrastructure and, following this first implementation, LPV-200 approach procedures will be progressively deployed over our IFR runway-ends network."

Pilot approved

The approach has been flown by an ATR 42-600, Dassault Falcon 2000 and Airbus A350, with positive pilot feedback.  “The LPV -200 system is much more stable and more reliable in terms of safety, but also more efficient than the ILS approach,” says ATR Chief Pilot Eric Delesalle after completing the first LPV-200 landing on runway 26L at LFPG. “It really makes a difference.”

According to Delesalle, LPV approaches offer pilots several distinct advantages over an ILS approach. For instance, the LPV system allows one to land at more runways, even in low visibility conditions, and LPV gives a pilot the accuracy of an ILS without the problems of localiser or glide slope interference. “With LPV, pilots can use GPS navigation during all phases of an approach, meaning they do not have to switch between autopilot modes while preparing the approach, thus our overall workload is reduced and room for human error is reduced” he adds.

“Airbus is pleased to have demonstrated that the A350 XWB complies with the new RNAV (GNSS) approaches with satellite-based augmentation, as implemented at Paris Charles de Gaulle,” adds Airbus Experimental Test Pilot Jean-Christophe Lair. “These approaches will be a valuable back-up to the airport’s traditional ILS approaches and will maximise runway availability for the A350 by maintaining CAT 1 capability, down to a 200 feet decision height, even when the ILS ground station is not available.”

View more images in our Image Gallery.

According to Dassault Flight Test Pilot Jean-Louis Dumas, from a pilot point of view, there is no difference between ILS and LPV approaches as the design of the Falcon EASY cockpit and the overall workload is exactly the same for both. “The accuracy and stability of the LPV guidance is really amazing,” says Dumas. “Lowering the LPV minima down to 200 feet in Europe is a great improvement enabled by EGNOS, and is very valuable for business aviation operations.”

In order to take advantage of LPV approaches, a pilot must undergo a specific initial training to learn all GPS-related navigation specifications, including LPV 200 procedures. However, as all three test pilots confirmed, as LPV approaches were intentionally developed as ILS look-alike, pilots are able to quickly transfer and adjust their skills to the new generation of LPV approaches.

Paving the way for future implementation

The GSA expects that by launching the first LPV-200 procedure at such an international hub as Charles de Gaulle will pave the way for the publication of additional LPV-200 service-level procedures at other European airports. In fact, it is already confirmed that Vienna International (LOWW) is set to be the next airport to publish LPV-200 procedures.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Have an innovative idea or application that leverages Galileo Initial Services? Then be sure to apply today for the GSA Special Prize – part of the 2016 European Satellite Navigation Competition.

On the eve of the historic declaration of Galileo Initial Services, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) has announced that it is now accepting applications for its GSA Special Prize for the most innovative application idea for Galileo Initial Services. Within the scope of the prize, the GSA is looking for the best ideas and applications that leverage Galileo’s Initial Services and the power of a multi-constellation environment in order to provide new and more robust benefits to the end-user across an array of sectors. The GSA Special Prize is part of the annual European Satellite Navigation Competition (ESNC).

Proposals must meet certain basic criteria, including:

• innovation versus existing solutions;
• commercial feasibility;
• use of European GNSS signals and services as a primary means of positioning;
• contribution to Galileo market uptake;
• technical/operational feasibility, including maturity of the idea;
• demonstrations/market trials for technology validation.

The winner will have the opportunity to develop their idea at an incubation centre of their choice within the EU-28 for six months, with the possibility of a further six months according to progress. Furthermore, for the first time, the winning idea will be showcased at the official Galileo Service Declaration Ceremony in Brussels, when Initial Services are announced to the world.

Supporting innovative applications

The 2015 edition of the ESNC received a record-breaking 192 entries from 29 different countries. Entries came from both individuals and start-up companies and covered such topics as location-based services (LBS), smart mobility, and safety and security. The winner, Rafael Olmedo and his KYNEO project, focused on the Internet of Things (IoT) and involved the development of cheap, flexible Galileo and EGNOS-enabled modules that allow for ubiquitous positioning data for IoT-related applications.

         Also Read: ESNC Success Stories

“The GSA Special Prize nicely complements the Agency’s focus of getting closer to the end-user and helping them benefit from European space technology and, in particular, Galileo,” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides. “Whether through competitions like this or through such funding programmes as Horizon 2020 and Fundamental Elements, it’s by supporting innovative applications like KYNEO that the GSA will be able to succeed in its mission.”
As the Galileo programme transitions from a system in development to being operational, efforts to promote corresponding applications will become increasingly important. For this reason, competition organisers say they are looking forward to seeing the creative and innovative Galileo-based applications submitted this year.

         Also Read: GNSS-enabled Sports Tracker Moves into Final Testing Phase

The ESNC offers a prize pool worth EUR 1 million, including cash prizes and in-kind services. All winners of the 30 regional and special prizes will be in the running for the overall prize of EUR 20 000 and a six-month incubation programme (which can be extended to one year) in a region of their choice. The deadline for applications is 30 June.

Also Read: ESNC Flyer

Further information on this year’s prizes, partners and terms of participation can be found on the ESNC website.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) talks EGNOS-based procedures during Aero Friedrichshafen – one of the world’s largest general aviation tradeshows.

Although many think of April in Paris, for the general aviation crowd, April means Germany. More specifically, April is Aero Friedrichshafen time – one of the world’s largest general aviation (GA) trade shows. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) joined the international GA crowd to discuss the many benefits that the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) provides this important sector.

At the front of everybody’s mind was the GSA’s recent declaration of the LPV 200 (localiser performance with vertical guidance) service. Using EGNOS, LPV-200 provides pilots with more accurate guidance for safer aircraft landings, even in poor weather conditions.

The service level enables aircraft approaches that are operationally equivalent to instrument landing system (ILS) CAT I, providing lateral and vertical guidance without the need for visual contact with the ground until a decision height (DH) of only 200 feet above the runway as minimum.

All EGNOS-based approaches, both LPV and the new LPV-200, are considered ILS look-alikes but without the expensive ground infrastructure required for ILS. “We received great feedback from pilots who say that landing with EGNOS is more comfortable, easy to follow and often more stable than with conventional ILS approaches,” says GSA Market Development Officer Katerina Strelcova. “Because of the increasing number of EGNOS-enabled airports throughout Europe, there is growing enthusiasm among the European general aviation community for the use of satellite-based approach systems (SBAS) and, as a result, many general aviation aircraft are now SBAS capable.”

Although the GSA’s EGNOS-based LPV service is free and requires no upgrade to an airport’s ground infrastructure or to existing certified EGNOS receivers, in order to fly LPV one does need procedures, a certified aircraft and a properly trained pilot. “In taking this EGNOS message forward within the GA community, we must continue to focus on its relation to three core pillars: approaches, equipment and pilot training,” says PPL/IR Europe Chairman Paul Sherry.

Pillar I: Procedures

As to the procedures, the GSA and the EGNOS Service Provider (ESSP) work directly with Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) to establish EGNOS Working Agreements, the legal tool that defines the working arrangements between ESSP and the ANSP in charge of the LPV procedure.

To help with this process in the UK, the GSA-is supporting LPV approaches for General Aviation. One of the projects, called GAGA, is working to increase the availability of LPV approach procedures, with a specific focus on GA airports in the UK. “General aviation competes for airspace with commercial aviation, which places severe limitations on the sector’s access to airports,” explains Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) UK CEO Martin Robinson. “Yet at the same time GA contributes GBP 3 billion of gross value added and is responsible for more than 38 000 jobs, so it is important that we support the GA industry.”

Pillar II: Equipment

Many of the latest GA aircraft come EGNOS-ready, including models from Cessna, Diamond, Piper and Cirrus. For legacy aircraft, the GSA notes they have a complete list of forward and retrofit solutions. 

“GNSS approaches (also known as RNP APCH) are great news for light GA aircraft,” says Sherry. “It’s really the first opportunity to put this PBN avionics equipment into the types of aircraft it was originally built for.”

What this means for GA aircraft and the GA pilot is a greater expectation of automation, less vectors and more procedural approaches. According to Sherry, PBN technology has rapidly evolved over the past decade. “From 1950 to 2000, IFR approach technology was fairly stable, ground-based and involved pretty much the same operation between different manufacturers and different installations,” he says. “But this changed with PBN, which is a complex combination of procedures, infrastructure, air traffic control (ATC), aircraft, avionics and aircrew.”

The GSA facilitates the use of EGNOS for GA in conjunction with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). For example, one major achievement of this collaboration is the development of a multi model list for avionics approved for the most widely used avionics by GA pilots, Garmin GNS430W and GNS530W. Recognising that GA demands cost-effective avionics, having these models approved for LPV capability helps bring the cost down from EUR 10 000 per aircraft registration to just EUR 300 – making EGNOS a realistic option for GA operators.

Pillar III: Training

However, it’s more than just having the right equipment in an aircraft. As the type of equipment is diverse, it is essential that the pilot knows how the technology and equipment in the aircraft works together. “When flying PBN, more reliance is placed on the aircraft and the pilot, as opposed to air traffic control,” adds PPL/IR Europe Director Julian Scarfe. “In other words, with PBN it becomes absolutely crucial that the pilot understands the equipment, procedures and obligations.”

Which leads us to the last point: the pilots themselves. In order to take advantage of LPV procedures, operators typically need specific approval to fly them. This is because LPVs are a relatively new concept that require not only that the aircraft and its cockpit avionics have the corresponding airworthiness approval, but also that pilots have appropriate training, checking standards and operational procedures in place.

Although EASA is currently working to amend some of these regulations, eliminating the burden of having to apply for SPA, all operators will still be required to follow the necessary operational procedures and CAT operators will have to amend their operational manual accordingly as part of their air operator approval from their authorities. On this point, the GSA provides EGNOS training materials via the EGNOS user support website. From August 2018, the core training syllabus for the instrument rating will include PBN concepts, many reliant on EGNOS.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) talks EGNOS-based procedures during Aero Friedrichshafen – one of the world’s largest general aviation tradeshows.

Although many think of April in Paris, for the general aviation crowd, April means Germany. More specifically, April is Aero Friedrichshafen time – one of the world’s largest general aviation (GA) trade shows. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) joined the international GA crowd to discuss the many benefits that the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) provides this important sector.

At the front of everybody’s mind was the GSA’s recent declaration of the LPV 200 (localiser performance with vertical guidance) service. Using EGNOS, LPV-200 provides pilots with more accurate guidance for safer aircraft landings, even in poor weather conditions.

The service level enables aircraft approaches that are operationally equivalent to instrument landing system (ILS) CAT I, providing lateral and vertical guidance without the need for visual contact with the ground until a decision height (DH) of only 200 feet above the runway as minimum.

All EGNOS-based approaches, both LPV and the new LPV-200, are considered ILS look-alikes but without the expensive ground infrastructure required for ILS. “We received great feedback from pilots who say that landing with EGNOS is more comfortable, easy to follow and often more stable than with conventional ILS approaches,” says GSA Market Development Officer Katerina Strelcova. “Because of the increasing number of EGNOS-enabled airports throughout Europe, there is growing enthusiasm among the European general aviation community for the use of satellite-based approach systems (SBAS) and, as a result, many general aviation aircraft are now SBAS capable.”

Although the GSA’s EGNOS-based LPV service is free and requires no upgrade to an airport’s ground infrastructure or to existing certified EGNOS receivers, in order to fly LPV one does need procedures, a certified aircraft and a properly trained pilot. “In taking this EGNOS message forward within the GA community, we must continue to focus on its relation to three core pillars: approaches, equipment and pilot training,” says PPL/IR Europe Chairman Paul Sherry.

Pillar I: Procedures

As to the procedures, the GSA and the EGNOS Service Provider (ESSP) work directly with Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) to establish EGNOS Working Agreements, the legal tool that defines the working arrangements between ESSP and the ANSP in charge of the LPV procedure.

To help with this process in the UK, the GSA-is supporting LPV approaches for General Aviation. One of the projects, called GAGA, is working to increase the availability of LPV approach procedures, with a specific focus on GA airports in the UK. “General aviation competes for airspace with commercial aviation, which places severe limitations on the sector’s access to airports,” explains Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) UK CEO Martin Robinson. “Yet at the same time GA contributes GBP 3 billion of gross value added and is responsible for more than 38 000 jobs, so it is important that we support the GA industry.”

Pillar II: Equipment

Many of the latest GA aircraft come EGNOS-ready, including models from Cessna, Diamond, Piper and Cirrus. For legacy aircraft, the GSA notes they have a complete list of forward and retrofit solutions. 

“GNSS approaches (also known as RNP APCH) are great news for light GA aircraft,” says Sherry. “It’s really the first opportunity to put this PBN avionics equipment into the types of aircraft it was originally built for.”

What this means for GA aircraft and the GA pilot is a greater expectation of automation, less vectors and more procedural approaches. According to Sherry, PBN technology has rapidly evolved over the past decade. “From 1950 to 2000, IFR approach technology was fairly stable, ground-based and involved pretty much the same operation between different manufacturers and different installations,” he says. “But this changed with PBN, which is a complex combination of procedures, infrastructure, air traffic control (ATC), aircraft, avionics and aircrew.”

The GSA facilitates the use of EGNOS for GA in conjunction with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). For example, one major achievement of this collaboration is the development of a multi model list for avionics approved for the most widely used avionics by GA pilots, Garmin GNS430W and GNS530W. Recognising that GA demands cost-effective avionics, having these models approved for LPV capability helps bring the cost down from EUR 10 000 per aircraft registration to just EUR 300 – making EGNOS a realistic option for GA operators.

Pillar III: Training

However, it’s more than just having the right equipment in an aircraft. As the type of equipment is diverse, it is essential that the pilot knows how the technology and equipment in the aircraft works together. “When flying PBN, more reliance is placed on the aircraft and the pilot, as opposed to air traffic control,” adds PPL/IR Europe Director Julian Scarfe. “In other words, with PBN it becomes absolutely crucial that the pilot understands the equipment, procedures and obligations.”

Which leads us to the last point: the pilots themselves. In order to take advantage of LPV procedures, operators typically need specific approval to fly them. This is because LPVs are a relatively new concept that require not only that the aircraft and its cockpit avionics have the corresponding airworthiness approval, but also that pilots have appropriate training, checking standards and operational procedures in place.

Although EASA is currently working to amend some of these regulations, eliminating the burden of having to apply for SPA, all operators will still be required to follow the necessary operational procedures and CAT operators will have to amend their operational manual accordingly as part of their air operator approval from their authorities. On this point, the GSA provides EGNOS training materials via the EGNOS user support website. From August 2018, the core training syllabus for the instrument rating will include PBN concepts, many reliant on EGNOS.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) talks EGNOS-based procedures during Aero Friedrichshafen – one of the world’s largest general aviation tradeshows.

Although many think of April in Paris, for the general aviation crowd, April means Germany. More specifically, April is Aero Friedrichshafen time – one of the world’s largest general aviation (GA) trade shows. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) joined the international GA crowd to discuss the many benefits that the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) provides this important sector.

At the front of everybody’s mind was the GSA’s recent declaration of the LPV 200 (localiser performance with vertical guidance) service. Using EGNOS, LPV-200 provides pilots with more accurate guidance for safer aircraft landings, even in poor weather conditions.

The service level enables aircraft approaches that are operationally equivalent to instrument landing system (ILS) CAT I, providing lateral and vertical guidance without the need for visual contact with the ground until a decision height (DH) of only 200 feet above the runway as minimum.

All EGNOS-based approaches, both LPV and the new LPV-200, are considered ILS look-alikes but without the expensive ground infrastructure required for ILS. “We received great feedback from pilots who say that landing with EGNOS is more comfortable, easy to follow and often more stable than with conventional ILS approaches,” says GSA Market Development Officer . “Because of the increasing number of EGNOS-enabled airports throughout Europe, there is growing enthusiasm among the European general aviation community for the use of satellite-based approach systems (SBAS) and, as a result, many general aviation aircraft are now SBAS capable.”

Although the GSA’s EGNOS-based LPV service is free and requires no upgrade to an airport’s ground infrastructure or to existing certified EGNOS receivers, in order to fly LPV one does need procedures, a certified aircraft and a properly trained pilot. “In taking this EGNOS message forward within the GA community, we must continue to focus on its relation to three core pillars: approaches, equipment and pilot training,” says PPL/IR Europe Chairman Paul Sherry.

Pillar I: Procedures

As to the procedures, the GSA and the EGNOS Service Provider (ESSP) work directly with Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) to establish EGNOS Working Agreements, the legal tool that defines the working arrangements between ESSP and the ANSP in charge of the LPV procedure.

To help with this process in the UK, the GSA-is supporting LPV approaches for General Aviation. One of the projects, called GAGA, is working to increase the availability of LPV approach procedures, with a specific focus on GA airports in the UK. “General aviation competes for airspace with commercial aviation, which places severe limitations on the sector’s access to airports,” explains Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) UK CEO Martin Robinson. “Yet at the same time GA contributes GBP 3 billion of gross value added and is responsible for more than 38 000 jobs, so it is important that we support the GA industry.”

Pillar II: Equipment

Many of the latest GA aircraft come EGNOS-ready, including models from Cessna, Diamond, Piper and Cirrus. For legacy aircraft, the GSA notes they have a complete list of forward and retrofit solutions. 

“GNSS approaches (also known as RNP APCH) are great news for light GA aircraft,” says Sherry. “It’s really the first opportunity to put this PBN avionics equipment into the types of aircraft it was originally built for.”

What this means for GA aircraft and the GA pilot is a greater expectation of automation, less vectors and more procedural approaches. According to Sherry, PBN technology has rapidly evolved over the past decade. “From 1950 to 2000, IFR approach technology was fairly stable, ground-based and involved pretty much the same operation between different manufacturers and different installations,” he says. “But this changed with PBN, which is a complex combination of procedures, infrastructure, air traffic control (ATC), aircraft, avionics and aircrew.”

The GSA facilitates the use of EGNOS for GA in conjunction with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). For example, one major achievement of this collaboration is the development of a multi model list for avionics approved for the most widely used avionics by GA pilots, Garmin GNS430W and GNS530W. Recognising that GA demands cost-effective avionics, having these models approved for LPV capability helps bring the cost down from EUR 10 000 per aircraft registration to just EUR 300 – making EGNOS a realistic option for GA operators.

Pillar III: Training

However, it’s more than just having the right equipment in an aircraft. As the type of equipment is diverse, it is essential that the pilot knows how the technology and equipment in the aircraft works together. “When flying PBN, more reliance is placed on the aircraft and the pilot, as opposed to air traffic control,” adds PPL/IR Europe Director Julian Scarfe. “In other words, with PBN it becomes absolutely crucial that the pilot understands the equipment, procedures and obligations.”

Which leads us to the last point: the pilots themselves. In order to take advantage of LPV procedures, operators typically need specific approval to fly them. This is because LPVs are a relatively new concept that require not only that the aircraft and its cockpit avionics have the corresponding airworthiness approval, but also that pilots have appropriate training, checking standards and operational procedures in place.

Although EASA is currently working to amend some of these regulations, eliminating the burden of having to apply for SPA, all operators will still be required to follow the necessary operational procedures and CAT operators will have to amend their operational manual accordingly as part of their air operator approval from their authorities. On this point, the GSA provides EGNOS training materials via the EGNOS user support website. From August 2018, the core training syllabus for the instrument rating will include PBN concepts, many reliant on EGNOS.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) talks EGNOS-based procedures during Aero Friedrichshafen – one of the world’s largest general aviation tradeshows.

Although many think of April in Paris, for the general aviation crowd, April means Germany. More specifically, April is Aero Friedrichshafen time – one of the world’s largest general aviation (GA) trade shows. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) joined the international GA crowd to discuss the many benefits that the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) provides this important sector.

At the front of everybody’s mind was the GSA’s recent declaration of the LPV 200 (localiser performance with vertical guidance) service. Using EGNOS, LPV-200 provides pilots with more accurate guidance for safer aircraft landings, even in poor weather conditions.

The service level enables aircraft approaches that are operationally equivalent to instrument landing system (ILS) CAT I, providing lateral and vertical guidance without the need for visual contact with the ground until a decision height (DH) of only 200 feet above the runway as minimum.

All EGNOS-based approaches, both LPV and the new LPV-200, are considered ILS look-alikes but without the expensive ground infrastructure required for ILS. “We received great feedback from pilots who say that landing with EGNOS is more comfortable, easy to follow and often more stable than with conventional ILS approaches,” says GSA Market Development Officer . “Because of the increasing number of EGNOS-enabled airports throughout Europe, there is growing enthusiasm among the European general aviation community for the use of satellite-based approach systems (SBAS) and, as a result, many general aviation aircraft are now SBAS capable.”

Although the GSA’s EGNOS-based LPV service is free and requires no upgrade to an airport’s ground infrastructure or to existing certified EGNOS receivers, in order to fly LPV one does need procedures, a certified aircraft and a properly trained pilot. “In taking this EGNOS message forward within the GA community, we must continue to focus on its relation to three core pillars: approaches, equipment and pilot training,” says PPL/IR Europe Chairman Paul Sherry.

Pillar I: Procedures

As to the procedures, the GSA and the EGNOS Service Provider (ESSP) work directly with Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) to establish EGNOS Working Agreements, the legal tool that defines the working arrangements between ESSP and the ANSP in charge of the LPV procedure.

To help with this process in the UK, the GSA-is supporting LPV approaches for General Aviation. One of the projects, called GAGA, is working to increase the availability of LPV approach procedures, with a specific focus on GA airports in the UK. “General aviation competes for airspace with commercial aviation, which places severe limitations on the sector’s access to airports,” explains Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) UK CEO Martin Robinson. “Yet at the same time GA contributes GBP 3 billion of gross value added and is responsible for more than 38 000 jobs, so it is important that we support the GA industry.”

Pillar II: Equipment

Many of the latest GA aircraft come EGNOS-ready, including models from Cessna, Diamond, Piper and Cirrus. For legacy aircraft, the GSA notes they have a complete list of forward and retrofit solutions. 

“GNSS approaches (also known as RNP APCH) are great news for light GA aircraft,” says Sherry. “It’s really the first opportunity to put this PBN avionics equipment into the types of aircraft it was originally built for.”

What this means for GA aircraft and the GA pilot is a greater expectation of automation, less vectors and more procedural approaches. According to Sherry, PBN technology has rapidly evolved over the past decade. “From 1950 to 2000, IFR approach technology was fairly stable, ground-based and involved pretty much the same operation between different manufacturers and different installations,” he says. “But this changed with PBN, which is a complex combination of procedures, infrastructure, air traffic control (ATC), aircraft, avionics and aircrew.”

The GSA facilitates the use of EGNOS for GA in conjunction with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). For example, one major achievement of this collaboration is the development of a multi model list for avionics approved for the most widely used avionics by GA pilots, Garmin GNS430W and GNS530W. Recognising that GA demands cost-effective avionics, having these models approved for LPV capability helps bring the cost down from EUR 10 000 per aircraft registration to just EUR 300 – making EGNOS a realistic option for GA operators.

Pillar III: Training

However, it’s more than just having the right equipment in an aircraft. As the type of equipment is diverse, it is essential that the pilot knows how the technology and equipment in the aircraft works together. “When flying PBN, more reliance is placed on the aircraft and the pilot, as opposed to air traffic control,” adds PPL/IR Europe Director Julian Scarfe. “In other words, with PBN it becomes absolutely crucial that the pilot understands the equipment, procedures and obligations.”

Which leads us to the last point: the pilots themselves. In order to take advantage of LPV procedures, operators typically need specific approval to fly them. This is because LPVs are a relatively new concept that require not only that the aircraft and its cockpit avionics have the corresponding airworthiness approval, but also that pilots have appropriate training, checking standards and operational procedures in place.

Although EASA is currently working to amend some of these regulations, eliminating the burden of having to apply for SPA, all operators will still be required to follow the necessary operational procedures and CAT operators will have to amend their operational manual accordingly as part of their air operator approval from their authorities. On this point, the GSA provides EGNOS training materials via the EGNOS user support website. From August 2018, the core training syllabus for the instrument rating will include PBN concepts, many reliant on EGNOS.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) talks EGNOS-based procedures during Aero Friedrichshafen – one of the world’s largest general aviation tradeshows.

Although many think of April in Paris, for the general aviation crowd, April means Germany. More specifically, April is Aero Friedrichshafen time – one of the world’s largest general aviation (GA) trade shows. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) joined the international GA crowd to discuss the many benefits that the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) provides this important sector.

At the front of everybody’s mind was the GSA’s recent declaration of the LPV 200 (localiser performance with vertical guidance) service. Using EGNOS, LPV-200 provides pilots with more accurate guidance for safer aircraft landings, even in poor weather conditions.

The service level enables aircraft approaches that are operationally equivalent to instrument landing system (ILS) CAT I, providing lateral and vertical guidance without the need for visual contact with the ground until a decision height (DH) of only 200 feet above the runway as minimum.

All EGNOS-based approaches, both LPV and the new LPV-200, are considered ILS look-alikes but without the expensive ground infrastructure required for ILS. “We received great feedback from pilots who say that landing with EGNOS is more comfortable, easy to follow and often more stable than with conventional ILS approaches,” says GSA Market Development Officer . “Because of the increasing number of EGNOS-enabled airports throughout Europe, there is growing enthusiasm among the European general aviation community for the use of satellite-based approach systems (SBAS) and, as a result, many general aviation aircraft are now SBAS capable.”

Although the GSA’s EGNOS-based LPV service is free and requires no upgrade to an airport’s ground infrastructure or to existing certified EGNOS receivers, in order to fly LPV one does need procedures, a certified aircraft and a properly trained pilot. “In taking this EGNOS message forward within the GA community, we must continue to focus on its relation to three core pillars: approaches, equipment and pilot training,” says PPL/IR Europe Chairman Paul Sherry.

Pillar I: Procedures

As to the procedures, the GSA and the EGNOS Service Provider (ESSP) work directly with Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) to establish EGNOS Working Agreements, the legal tool that defines the working arrangements between ESSP and the ANSP in charge of the LPV procedure.

To help with this process in the UK, the GSA-is supporting LPV approaches for General Aviation. One of the projects, called GAGA, is working to increase the availability of LPV approach procedures, with a specific focus on GA airports in the UK. “General aviation competes for airspace with commercial aviation, which places severe limitations on the sector’s access to airports,” explains Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) UK CEO Martin Robinson. “Yet at the same time GA contributes GBP 3 billion of gross value added and is responsible for more than 38 000 jobs, so it is important that we support the GA industry.”

Pillar II: Equipment

Many of the latest GA aircraft come EGNOS-ready, including models from Cessna, Diamond, Piper and Cirrus. For legacy aircraft, the GSA notes they have a complete list of forward and retrofit solutions. 

“GNSS approaches (also known as RNP APCH) are great news for light GA aircraft,” says Sherry. “It’s really the first opportunity to put this PBN avionics equipment into the types of aircraft it was originally built for.”

What this means for GA aircraft and the GA pilot is a greater expectation of automation, less vectors and more procedural approaches. According to Sherry, PBN technology has rapidly evolved over the past decade. “From 1950 to 2000, IFR approach technology was fairly stable, ground-based and involved pretty much the same operation between different manufacturers and different installations,” he says. “But this changed with PBN, which is a complex combination of procedures, infrastructure, air traffic control (ATC), aircraft, avionics and aircrew.”

The GSA facilitates the use of EGNOS for GA in conjunction with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). For example, one major achievement of this collaboration is the development of a multi model list for avionics approved for the most widely used avionics by GA pilots, Garmin GNS430W and GNS530W. Recognising that GA demands cost-effective avionics, having these models approved for LPV capability helps bring the cost down from EUR 10 000 per aircraft registration to just EUR 300 – making EGNOS a realistic option for GA operators.

Pillar III: Training

However, it’s more than just having the right equipment in an aircraft. As the type of equipment is diverse, it is essential that the pilot knows how the technology and equipment in the aircraft works together. “When flying PBN, more reliance is placed on the aircraft and the pilot, as opposed to air traffic control,” adds PPL/IR Europe Director Julian Scarfe. “In other words, with PBN it becomes absolutely crucial that the pilot understands the equipment, procedures and obligations.”

Which leads us to the last point: the pilots themselves. In order to take advantage of LPV procedures, operators typically need specific approval to fly them. This is because LPVs are a relatively new concept that require not only that the aircraft and its cockpit avionics have the corresponding airworthiness approval, but also that pilots have appropriate training, checking standards and operational procedures in place.

Although EASA is currently working to amend some of these regulations, eliminating the burden of having to apply for SPA, all operators will still be required to follow the necessary operational procedures and CAT operators will have to amend their operational manual accordingly as part of their air operator approval from their authorities. On this point, the GSA provides EGNOS training materials via the EGNOS user support website. From August 2018, the core training syllabus for the instrument rating will include PBN concepts, many reliant on EGNOS.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) held a workshop at the CLGE General Assembly to complete the understanding of surveyor and reference network-provider needs with regard to EGNOS and Galileo.

In 2015, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) in cooperation with the Council of European Geodetic Surveyors (CLGE) launched a questionnaire to better understand the unique global navigation satellite system (GNSS) needs of surveyors and reference network providers. What they found is a sector that is mostly Galileo-ready.

Of all reference network providers surveyed, nearly half are currently Galileo-ready, with 78 % of those not Galileo-equipped planning to do so by 2017. As for professional surveyors, almost 25 % from the public sector and 20 % from the private sector are using Galileo-equipped GNSS receivers. Furthermore, the majority of the surveying-related GNSS receivers now entering the market are Galileo-capable, meaning one can expect nearly full Galileo adoption in Europe within the coming years.

    Mark your calendars: E-GNSS workshop at Geospatial World Forum

The results were presented and discussed with surveyors from various EU and non-EU countries during a dedicated Galileo workshop held within the CLGE General Assembly in Tirana, Albania. During the workshop, particular attention was given to the upcoming declaration of Galileo Initial Services. According to the GSA, this, along with the accelerated Galileo satellite launches, will provide immediate benefits and improvements to mapping and surveying activities already from the Initial Services phase, planned to start in late 2016. The surveyors are welcoming the advantages of multi-constellation (including better GNSS coverage in Northern latitudes) as well as Galileo’s improved performance in harsh environments.  Other topics discussed included unmanned aerial systems (UASs), and such new phenomena as ‘democratisation’ of mapping/surveying and envisioning future GNSS applications.

An ongoing partnership

As the surveying community demands highly accurate positioning services, it was naturally one of the early adopters of GNSS technology. The GSA is continuously tightening its connection with the European surveying community: as an example, the Surveying department of the SWECO, a Swedish manufacturer of industrial equipment (http://sweco.com/) visited the GSA Headquarters on  22 April 2016.

On 26 April , GSA Market Development team participated to the Swedish Mapping Days in Gävle, discussed the imminent upgrade to full Galileo capability with the representatives of the Swedish reference network providers (SWEPOS - Swedish Positioning RTK Network, Swedish Maritime Administration, who runs a DGNSS network).

Standing out is the partnership of GSA with the CLGE that also includes sponsorship of the CLGE Annual Young Surveyor’s Prize, participation to events (e.g., the president of CLGE, Maurice Barbieri, is an invited speaker at the E-GNSS workshop at the Geospatial World Forum).  

The CLGE represents and promotes the interests of its members in both Europe’s private and public sectors, and serves as a permanent forum for European geodetic surveyors committed to European cooperation. CLGE’s activities aim to promote the exchange of technical, scientific, educational and organisational know-how among its Member States, along with providing assistance to governments, national associations and EU institutions.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) held a workshop at the CLGE General Assembly to complete the understanding of surveyor and reference network-provider needs with regard to EGNOS and Galileo.

In 2015, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) in cooperation with the Council of European Geodetic Surveyors (CLGE) launched a questionnaire to better understand the unique global navigation satellite system (GNSS) needs of surveyors and reference network providers. What they found is a sector that is mostly Galileo-ready.

Of all reference network providers surveyed, nearly half are currently Galileo-ready, with 78 % of those not Galileo-equipped planning to do so by 2017. As for professional surveyors, almost 25 % from the public sector and 20 % from the private sector are using Galileo-equipped GNSS receivers. Furthermore, the majority of the surveying-related GNSS receivers now entering the market are Galileo-capable, meaning one can expect nearly full Galileo adoption in Europe within the coming years.

    Mark your calendars: E-GNSS workshop at Geospatial World Forum

The results were presented and discussed with surveyors from various EU and non-EU countries during a dedicated Galileo workshop held within the CLGE General Assembly in Tirana, Albania. During the workshop, particular attention was given to the upcoming declaration of Galileo Initial Services. According to the GSA, this, along with the accelerated Galileo satellite launches, will provide immediate benefits and improvements to mapping and surveying activities already from the Initial Services phase, planned to start in late 2016. The surveyors are welcoming the advantages of multi-constellation (including better GNSS coverage in Northern latitudes) as well as Galileo’s improved performance in harsh environments.  Other topics discussed included unmanned aerial systems (UASs), and such new phenomena as ‘democratisation’ of mapping/surveying and envisioning future GNSS applications.

An ongoing partnership

As the surveying community demands highly accurate positioning services, it was naturally one of the early adopters of GNSS technology. The GSA is continuously tightening its connection with the European surveying community: as an example, the Surveying department of the SWECO, a Swedish manufacturer of industrial equipment (http://www.sweco.se/en/) visited the GSA Headquarters on  22 April 2016.

On 26 April , GSA Market Development team participated to the Swedish Mapping Days in Gävle, discussed the imminent upgrade to full Galileo capability with the representatives of the Swedish reference network providers (SWEPOS - Swedish Positioning RTK Network, Swedish Maritime Administration, who runs a DGNSS network).

Standing out is the partnership of GSA with the CLGE that also includes sponsorship of the CLGE Annual Young Surveyor’s Prize, participation to events (e.g., the president of CLGE, Maurice Barbieri, is an invited speaker at the E-GNSS workshop at the Geospatial World Forum).  

The CLGE represents and promotes the interests of its members in both Europe’s private and public sectors, and serves as a permanent forum for European geodetic surveyors committed to European cooperation. CLGE’s activities aim to promote the exchange of technical, scientific, educational and organisational know-how among its Member States, along with providing assistance to governments, national associations and EU institutions.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA), along with the European GNSS Service Centre (GSC), announce the commissioning of two additional Galileo satellites, increasing the total number of signals available for testing as the programme moves towards Galileo Initial Services.

Today, the European GNSS Agency (GSA), along with the European GNSS Services Centre (GSC), announce that the latest two Galileo satellites to have been launched successfully completed a four month long in-orbit testing campaign. Galileo satellites 11 (GSAT0208) and 12 (GSAT0209) are now officially commissioned for use in Galileo constellation.

The two satellites were launched from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana on 17 December 2015. Following extensive testing campaigns by European Space Agency, the GSA and GSC confirm that both are performing as planned and are successfully integrated with the Galileo ground network.

This news, along with the deployment of the next two satellites scheduled for launch in May, help pave the way for the declaration of Galileo Initial Services later this year. The May launch will be followed by an additional launch of four satellites in the autumn – the first launch to use a single customised Ariane-5 launcher.

About Galileo

Galileo is Europe's civilian global satellite navigation system. Galileo will allow users worldwide to know their exact position in time and space with great precision and reliability. Once complete, the Galileo system will consist of 30 satellites and the necessary ground infrastructure to enable the provision of positioning, navigation and timing services.

The Galileo programme is funded and owned by the European Union. The European Commission has the overall responsibility for the Galileo programme, it manages and oversees the implementation of all programme activities.

Galileo's deployment, the design and development of the new generation of systems and the technical development of infrastructure are entrusted to the European Space Agency. The definition, development and in-orbit validation phases of the Galileo programme were carried out by ESA, and co-funded by ESA and the European Commission.

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) is ensuring the uptake and security of Galileo. From 2017 Galileo operations and provision of Galileo services will be entrusted to the GSA.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA), along with the European GNSS Service Centre (GSC), announce the commissioning of two additional Galileo satellites, increasing the total number of signals available for testing as the programme moves towards Galileo Initial Services.

Today, the European GNSS Agency (GSA), along with the European GNSS Service Centre (GSC), announce that the latest two Galileo satellites launched have successfully completed a four month long in-orbit testing campaign. Galileo satellites 11 (GSAT0208) and 12 (GSAT0209) are now officially commissioned for use in the Galileo constellation.

The two satellites were launched from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana on 17 December 2015. Following extensive testing campaigns by European Space Agency, the GSA and GSC confirm that both are performing as planned and are successfully integrated with the Galileo ground network.

This milestone, along with the deployment of the next two satellites scheduled for launch in May, helps pave the way for the declaration of Galileo Initial Services later this year. The May launch will be followed by an additional launch of four satellites in the autumn – the first launch to use a single customised Ariane-5 launcher.

About Galileo

Galileo is Europe's civilian global satellite navigation system. Galileo will allow users worldwide to know their exact position in time and space with great precision and reliability. Once complete, the Galileo system will consist of 30 satellites and the necessary ground infrastructure to enable the provision of positioning, navigation and timing services.

The Galileo programme is funded and owned by the European Union. The European Commission has the overall responsibility for the Galileo programme, it manages and oversees the implementation of all programme activities.

Galileo's deployment, the design and development of the new generation of systems and the technical development of infrastructure are entrusted to the European Space Agency. The definition, development and in-orbit validation phases of the Galileo programme were carried out by ESA, and co-funded by ESA and the European Commission.

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) is ensuring the uptake and security of Galileo. From 2017 Galileo operations and provision of Galileo services will be entrusted to the GSA.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The 2016 Farming by Satellite Prize, sponsored by the European GNSS Agency (GSA), is open to students and young farmers with innovative ideas for using satellite technology to improve agricultural production, efficiency and profit.

With a cash prize of EUR 13 000, the 2016 edition of the Farming by Satellite Prize is now open for submissions. The prize, an initiative of the European GNSS Agency (GSA), is open to students and young farmers across Europe and Africa with innovative ideas for using satellite technology to improve agricultural production, efficiency and profit, or to reduce the sector’s environmental impact. This year’s edition is sponsored by CLAAS and Bayer CropScience.

Launched in 2012, the Farming by Satellite Prize is held every 2 years. The last edition saw submissions from over 29 countries covering such topics as geo-referenced online data platforms, swarm technologies, precision seed-planting robots, selective olive harvesting and using drones for early famine warning systems in Africa. The first prize in 2014 went to Daniel Hege of Geisenheim University in Germany, whose successful project used satellite-guided steering during the cultivation of mixed vegetables to both increase productivity by reducing planting gaps and reduce time spent in the field by increasing the speed of accurate weed control.

“With this prize, we want young people to actively think about imaginative solutions that employ such satellite technologies as the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Galileo, which can help farmers around the world,” says GSA Head of Market Development Gian-Gherardo Calini.

Promoting precision

Precision agriculture is a highly effective farming strategy that allows farmers to better allocate inputs, such as seeds and fertilisers, to increase productivity, lower costs and minimise the environmental impact. Traditionally, the main obstacle to wide-scale application of precision agriculture has been the substantial investment required. EGNOS and Galileo fundamentally change the equation by offering high precision at low cost.

The main advantages of satellite technologies in agriculture include high accuracy and the repeatability of the same action year on year. These two fundamental advantages lead to valuable benefits, including:
reduced waste through the over-application of fertilisers and herbicides;

• reduced seed consumption;
• fuel and time savings;
• lower fatigue;
• extended equipment life;
• optimised crop yields.

Register today

The Farming by Satellite Prize is open to both individuals and teams from universities or commercial organisations. To compete, one must submit case studies, new ideas or innovations that rely on EGNOS, Galileo or Copernicus. Registration closes 30 October 2016, with final submissions due by 15 December 2016.  More information can be found at www.farmingbysatellite.eu

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The 2016 Farming by Satellite Prize, sponsored by the European GNSS Agency (GSA), is open to students and young farmers with innovative ideas for using satellite technology to improve agricultural production, efficiency and profit.

With a cash prize of EUR 13 000, the 2016 edition of the Farming by Satellite Prize is now open for submissions. The prize, an initiative of the European GNSS Agency (GSA), is open to students and young farmers across Europe and Africa with innovative ideas for using satellite technology to improve agricultural production, efficiency and profit, or to reduce the sector’s environmental impact. This year’s edition is sponsored by CLAAS and Bayer CropScience.

Launched in 2012, the Farming by Satellite Prize is held every 2 years. The last edition saw submissions from over 29 countries covering such topics as geo-referenced online data platforms, swarm technologies, precision seed-planting robots, selective olive harvesting and using drones for early famine warning systems in Africa. The first prize in 2014 went to Daniel Hege of Geisenheim University in Germany, whose successful project used satellite-guided steering during the cultivation of mixed vegetables to both increase productivity by reducing planting gaps and reduce time spent in the field by increasing the speed of accurate weed control.

“With this prize, we want young people to actively think about imaginative solutions that employ such satellite technologies as the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Galileo, which can help farmers around the world,” says GSA Head of Market Development Gian-Gherardo Calini.

Promoting precision

Precision agriculture is a highly effective farming strategy that allows farmers to better allocate inputs, such as seeds and fertilisers, to increase productivity, lower costs and minimise the environmental impact. Traditionally, the main obstacle to wide-scale application of precision agriculture has been the substantial investment required. EGNOS and Galileo fundamentally change the equation by offering high precision at low cost.

The main advantages of satellite technologies in agriculture include high accuracy and the repeatability of the same action year on year. These two fundamental advantages lead to valuable benefits, including:
reduced waste through the over-application of fertilisers and herbicides;

• reduced seed consumption;
• fuel and time savings;
• lower fatigue;
• extended equipment life;
• optimised crop yields.

Register today

The Farming by Satellite Prize is open to both individuals and teams from universities or commercial organisations. To compete, one must submit case studies, new ideas or innovations that rely on EGNOS, Galileo or Copernicus. Registration closes 30 October 2016, with final submissions due by 15 December 2016.  More information can be found at www.farmingbysatellite.eu

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The 2016 Farming by Satellite Prize, sponsored by the European GNSS Agency (GSA), is open to students and young farmers with innovative ideas for using satellite technology to improve agricultural production, efficiency and profit.

With a cash prize of EUR 13 000, the 2016 edition of the Farming by Satellite Prize is now open for submissions. The prize, an initiative of the European GNSS Agency (GSA), is open to students and young farmers across Europe and Africa with innovative ideas for using satellite technology to improve agricultural production, efficiency and profit, or to reduce the sector’s environmental impact. This year’s edition is sponsored by CLAAS and Bayer CropScience.

Launched in 2012, the Farming by Satellite Prize is held every 2 years. The last edition saw submissions from over 29 countries covering such topics as geo-referenced online data platforms, swarm technologies, precision seed-planting robots, selective olive harvesting and using drones for early famine warning systems in Africa. The first prize in 2014 went to Daniel Hege of Geisenheim University in Germany, whose successful project used satellite-guided steering during the cultivation of mixed vegetables to both increase productivity by reducing planting gaps and reduce time spent in the field by increasing the speed of accurate weed control.

“With this prize, we want young people to actively think about imaginative solutions that employ such satellite technologies as the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Galileo, which can help farmers around the world,” says GSA Head of Market Development Gian-Gherardo Calini.

Promoting precision

Precision agriculture is a highly effective farming strategy that allows farmers to better allocate inputs, such as seeds and fertilisers, to increase productivity, lower costs and minimise the environmental impact. Traditionally, the main obstacle to wide-scale application of precision agriculture has been the substantial investment required. EGNOS and Galileo fundamentally change the equation by offering high precision at low cost.

The main advantages of satellite technologies in agriculture include high accuracy and the repeatability of the same action year on year. These two fundamental advantages lead to valuable benefits, including:
reduced waste through the over-application of fertilisers and herbicides;

• reduced seed consumption;
• fuel and time savings;
• lower fatigue;
• extended equipment life;
• optimised crop yields.

Register today

The Farming by Satellite Prize is open to both individuals and teams from universities or commercial organisations. To compete, one must submit case studies, new ideas or innovations that rely on EGNOS, Galileo or Copernicus. Registration closes 30 October 2016, with final submissions due by 15 December 2016.  More information can be found at www.farmingbysatellite.eu

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

As the declaration of Galileo Initial Services approaches, the International Committee on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (ICG) is holding a special side event on multi-GNSS cooperation during the 2016 European Space Solutions conference.

With the declaration of Galileo Initial Services set for later this year, it will soon join the ranks of GPS and GLONASS, among others, as part of a multi-constellation environment. To learn more about the importance of multi-global navigation satellite system (GNSS) cooperation, the International Committee on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (ICG) is hosting a half-day side event during the European Space Solutions Conference. The event, entitled ‘The ICG, multifunction GNSS signals, and how to protect them’ is scheduled for 1 June.

Although Galileo is a European Union project, cooperation with non-EU partners is essential for its success. As satellite navigation systems expand globally, the goal of the ICG is to ensure they remain fully compatible and interoperable – and for this, international cooperation is crucial.

“As the Executive Secretariat of the ICG, it is our hope that collaboration among GNSS providers and user communities will continue to grow in the future, said Sharafat Gadimova from the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. “We support the broader objective of integrating GNSS and their augmentations into the infrastructure of developing nations, at governmental, scientific and commercial level.”

The future power of GNSS will not come from a single system, but from systems working together to achieve a common goal. “With a ‘system of systems’, users will benefit from better coverage and accuracy with greater positioning confidence,” says European GNSS Agency (GSA) Executive Director, Carlo des Dorides. “Although the range of applications is already large, with the new accuracy, reliability and confidence offered by Galileo, this will only grow.”

Protecting against interference

The ICG session at European Space Solutions will cover such important topics as interference detection and mitigation, among others.

The spoofing and jamming of GNSS signals is becoming an increasing concern, especially as the technology becomes more and more embedded in critical infrastructures. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 6 % of EU gross domestic product (GDP) – worth EUR 80 billion – relies on satellite navigation. Hence, an increased reliability and trustworthiness of position and timing information becomes critical.  In this capacity, Galileo’s authenticated services will provide major benefits to users and help protect the global GNSS village.

The details

Scientists, developers, entrepreneurs, policy-makers and end-users can join thought leaders from the ICG, various national satellite navigation agencies and academia to share technical expertise and experiences, and to put forth recommendations to the ICG and its working groups.

The ICG was established in 2005 under the umbrella of the United Nations and is charged with promoting voluntary cooperation on matters of mutual interest related to civil satellite-based positioning, navigation, timing and value-added services. Among its core missions is the coordination among providers of GNSS, regional systems and augmentations in order to ensure greater compatibility, interoperability and transparency – and to promote the introduction and utilisation of these services and their future enhancements, including in developing countries.

More information and how to register can be found here.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

When it comes to GNSS, authentication is one of the most important topics. At the 13th Munich Satellite Navigation Summit, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) discussed authentication within the framework of Galileo.

GNSS applications are vulnerable to both voluntary and involuntary interferences, meaning that providing at least some level of authentication is a complex task. To address this important topic, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) recently participated in a dedicated session on GNSS authentication services – and in particular Galileo’s authentication capabilities – as part of the Munich Satellite Navigation Summit.

GSA Market Development Officer Reinhard Blasi discussed the different levels of authentication in Galileo’s Open, Commercial and PRS services – all of which will soon be available. In particular he stressed the authentication capabilities of the Galileo Open Service and Commercial Service, a unique feature that only the Galileo constellation can provide. “These are complementary services catering to differentiated market with specific needs for certain level of authentication,” he said. “Based on a recent consultation with industry, we know that authentication is a feature they are willing to implement and the GSA is supporting its implementation in order to add value to the various value chains and markets.”

An example of this support is the GSA’s Fundamental Elements programme, a new research and development funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers. The programme will run through 2020 and has a projected budget of EUR 100 million. The main objective of the initiative is to facilitate the development of such fundamental elements as Galileo-enabled chipsets and receivers. Already several projects covering authentication have received funding, including a safety critical European GNSS engine, liability critical European GNSS engine, Commercial Service user terminal, Open Service authentication user terminals and a timing receiver for critical infrastructure.

Major benefits to users

According to the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG Growth) Project Officer, Service Provision and Exploitation Ignacio Fernandez Hernandez, 6% of EU gross domestic product (GDP) – worth EUR 80 billion – relies on satellite navigation. Hence, an increased reliability and trustworthiness of position and timing information is critical. 

“The proposed Galileo authenticated services will provide major benefits to users at a very low additional cost to the programme,” he said. Galileo will start to transmit the Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (NMA) as of 2018, and it will be included in the full operational capability in 2020. “NMA capability can be added to receivers with low impact and no reduction in performance,” added Hernandez. “So authentication can be a reality, providing a service that is useful and helps protect the global GNSS village.”

The Galileo Commercial Service recently underwent the first authentication test of the Galileo E6 signal, which demonstrated low levels of error. The next step is a full demonstration using simulated testing environments at the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC). Once a robust Signal in Space is available, real environment testing will take place to characterise performance in both adversarial and non-adversarial conditions.

Update from the US

On the US side of the equation no civil signal authentication is currently available via GPS and, according to Director of the US National Coordination Office for Space-Based Positioning, Navigation and Timing Harold Martin, there are no plans to change this in the next generation GPSIII. Martin did note, however, that the US remains interested in EU developments in this area and continues to explore possibilities for future authentication, possibly via a WAAS data channel.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

When it comes to GNSS, authentication is one of the most important topics. At the 13th Munich Satellite Navigation Summit, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) discussed authentication within the framework of Galileo.

GNSS applications are vulnerable to both voluntary and involuntary interferences, meaning that providing at least some level of authentication is a complex task. To address this important topic, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) recently participated in a dedicated session on GNSS authentication services – and in particular Galileo’s authentication capabilities – as part of the Munich Satellite Navigation Summit.

GSA Market Development Officer Reinhard Blasi discussed the different levels of authentication in Galileo’s Open, Commercial and PRS services – all of which will soon be available. In particular he stressed the authentication capabilities of the Galileo Open Service and Commercial Service, a unique feature that only the Galileo constellation can provide. “These are complementary services catering to differentiated market with specific needs for certain level of authentication,” he said. “Based on a recent consultation with industry, we know that authentication is a feature they are willing to implement and the GSA is supporting its implementation in order to add value to the various value chains and markets.”

An example of this support is the GSA’s Fundamental Elements programme, a new research and development funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers. The programme will run through 2020 and has a projected budget of EUR 100 million. The main objective of the initiative is to facilitate the development of such fundamental elements as Galileo-enabled chipsets and receivers. Already several projects covering authentication have received funding, including a safety critical European GNSS engine, liability critical European GNSS engine, Commercial Service user terminal, Open Service authentication user terminals and a timing receiver for critical infrastructure.

Major benefits to users

According to the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG Growth) Project Officer, Service Provision and Exploitation Ignacio Fernandez Hernandez, 6% of EU gross domestic product (GDP) – worth EUR 80 billion – relies on satellite navigation. Hence, an increased reliability and trustworthiness of position and timing information is critical. 

“The proposed Galileo authenticated services will provide major benefits to users at a very low additional cost to the programme,” he said. Galileo will start to transmit the Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (NMA) as of 2018, and it will be included in the full operational capability in 2020. “NMA capability can be added to receivers with low impact and no reduction in performance,” added Hernandez. “So authentication can be a reality, providing a service that is useful and helps protect the global GNSS village.”

The Galileo Commercial Service recently underwent the first authentication test of the Galileo E6 signal, which demonstrated low levels of error. The next step is a full demonstration using simulated testing environments at the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC). Once a robust Signal in Space is available, real environment testing will take place to characterise performance in both adversarial and non-adversarial conditions.

Update from the US

On the US side of the equation no civil signal authentication is currently available via GPS and, according to Director of the US National Coordination Office for Space-Based Positioning, Navigation and Timing Harold Martin, there are no plans to change this in the next generation GPSIII. Martin did note, however, that the US remains interested in EU developments in this area and continues to explore possibilities for future authentication, possibly via a WAAS data channel.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

When it comes to GNSS, authentication is one of the most important topics. At the 13th Munich Satellite Navigation Summit, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) discussed authentication within the framework of Galileo.

GNSS applications are vulnerable to both voluntary and involuntary interferences, meaning that providing at least some level of authentication is a complex task. To address this important topic, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) recently participated in a dedicated session on GNSS authentication services – and in particular Galileo’s authentication capabilities – as part of the Munich Satellite Navigation Summit.

GSA Market Development Officer Reinhard Blasi discussed the different levels of authentication in Galileo’s Open, Commercial and PRS services – all of which will soon be available. In particular he stressed the authentication capabilities of the Galileo Open Service and Commercial Service, a unique feature that only the Galileo constellation can provide. “These are complementary services catering to differentiated market with specific needs for certain level of authentication,” he said. “Based on a recent consultation with industry, we know that authentication is a feature they are willing to implement and the GSA is supporting its implementation in order to add value to the various value chains and markets.”

An example of this support is the GSA’s Fundamental Elements programme, a new research and development funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers. The programme will run through 2020 and has a projected budget of EUR 100 million. The main objective of the initiative is to facilitate the development of such fundamental elements as Galileo-enabled chipsets and receivers. Already several projects covering authentication have received funding, including a safety critical European GNSS engine, liability critical European GNSS engine, Commercial Service user terminal, Open Service authentication user terminals and a timing receiver for critical infrastructure.

Major benefits to users

According to the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG Growth) Project Officer, Service Provision and Exploitation Ignacio Fernandez Hernandez, 6% of EU gross domestic product (GDP) – worth EUR 80 billion – relies on satellite navigation. Hence, an increased reliability and trustworthiness of position and timing information is critical. 

“The proposed Galileo authenticated services will provide major benefits to users at a very low additional cost to the programme,” he said. Galileo will start to transmit the Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (NMA) as of 2018, and it will be included in the full operational capability in 2020. “NMA capability can be added to receivers with low impact and no reduction in performance,” added Hernandez. “So authentication can be a reality, providing a service that is useful and helps protect the global GNSS village.”

The Galileo Commercial Service recently underwent the first authentication test of the Galileo E6 signal, which demonstrated low levels of error. The next step is a full demonstration using simulated testing environments at the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC). Once a robust Signal in Space is available, real environment testing will take place to characterise performance in both adversarial and non-adversarial conditions.

Update from the US

On the US side of the equation no civil signal authentication is currently available via GPS and, according to Director of the US National Coordination Office for Space-Based Positioning, Navigation and Timing Harold Martin, there are no plans to change this in the next generation GPSIII. Martin did note, however, that the US remains interested in EU developments in this area and continues to explore possibilities for future authentication, possibly via a WAAS data channel.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

How can agriculture-focused organisations benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information? You can get the answer to this and more on 1 June at a 1-day workshop on space solutions for feeding a growing population during the European Space Solutions conference.

By 2050, the world’s population is predicted to have increased by 2 billion, reaching a total population of 9 billion people. To cope with this reality, the agriculture industry must maximise the use of available resources. Precision agriculture, which uses satellite navigation to help increase crop yields and improve efficiency, will play an important role in this effort. In fact, the role of geospatial data, Earth observation and positioning as applied to agriculture has been brought to the forefront by the 2015 United Nations Millennium Development Goals Report.

According to the report, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) such as Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS), along with Earth observation programmes like Copernicus, are not only helpful in boosting agribusiness productivity, but are also key to achieving the kind of food production necessary to sustain the planet’s growing population. Furthermore, these programmes support the implementation of various EU agricultural policies – particularly with regards to market transparency, control and evaluation of direct payments, and the establishment of an improved common agricultural policy (CAP). 

An array of applications

As European and worldwide farmers’ needs have become increasingly sophisticated, they were early adopters of precision agriculture as a solution for higher productivity and farm profitability. While the technology has a variety of uses, the main application for precision agriculture is tractor guidance, where positioning applications can be used to guide a tractor around a field and minimise the effort exerted by a farmer. More so, Earth observation satellites provide imagery of agricultural fields, along with radar, topographical and altimetry information. The results are an increase in efficiency and a decrease in labour costs. EGNOS especially can be used to help farmers enhance crop management and improve position-based tasks like spraying insecticides and pesticides and harvesting crops. In turn, this increases yields and helps provide the world with a much-needed food supply.

    Read more: EGNOS for agriculture

The crop insurance industry can also benefit from positioning and earth observation tools, as the technology creates better models to predict weather patterns and determine crop yields. With this information, crop insurance companies can set predictable rates and mange profits.

As precision agriculture technology becomes more widely available, farmers are demanding advanced applications of satellite technology and are looking for entire farm management solutions. In other words, farmers want technology that allows them to make better decisions and secure more predictable outcomes. To meet this demand, an array of European GNSS Agency (GSA)-supported applications and services are already being developed, enabling business opportunities for companies. For example, the H2020 project GeoPal provides an advanced logistics system for the harvesting and distribution functions of bio-related supply chains. The CLAAS Group has developed GeoPal into a field-route optimisation system that optimises working passes for every field and accurately forecasts the required processing time – resulting in an average cost reduction of 6%.  Another example comes from the Mistrale project, which seeks to provide soil moisture maps using GNSS reflectometry, helping farmers maximise water efficiency.

Another company benefiting from GNSS technology is AGCO, which currently uses EGNOS – and soon Galileo – for precision mapping for harvest yield. Farmnet 365 also uses EGNOS in its food traceability technology, which currently saves 5 % of working time for farmers and EUR 10-15 per hectare.

Ample opportunities

This cutting-edge technology has grabbed the attention of businesses, industry, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs around Europe and beyond, looking to secure a share of this growing market. According to the latest edition of the GSA GNSS market report, from 2013 to 2023, annual shipments of GNSS devices are expected to increase fivefold – up to almost 1.2 million units worldwide. Overall, GNSS penetration is foreseen to experience a steady increase over the next decade, reaching 50 % by 2023. Specifically, variable rate technologies will progressively gain momentum, with revenues increasing from EUR 135 million in 2013 to EUR 723 million in 2023. Likewise, revenues from asset management will grow from EUR 11 million in 2013 to EUR 102 million by 2023. Of the total revenue associated with the agriculture sector, automatic steering will generate the largest share and remain the most expansive application in terms of average price per device. 

In summary, the GNSS market as it applies to agriculture represents a massive opportunity for European businesses, SMEs and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the GSA, under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and agriculture as part of the European Space Solutions Conference.

Register today!

The Agriculture and Food Focus Session will address a wide range of applications for agriculture companies, including crop and soil monitoring, production forecasting, and land and irrigation management. The session will cover both state-of-the-art solutions and the latest research and development (R&D) innovations, with the objective of further promoting dialogue between the agribusiness and space sectors, with a focus on highlighting the many opportunities available for European businesses.

Users from both the public and private domains will be present, including speakers from the European Commission, European agriculture associations, the GSA, European and non-European agri-businesses and equipment manufacturers, including the CLAAS Group, Ariespace s.r.l. and Copa Cogeca, among others. The workshop will discuss the use of Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus in such arenas as crop classification, CAP, logistics and land monitoring – among others. A round table discussion is an integrative part of the day, addressing the needs of agriculture businesses and how they can benefit from the EU space solutions.

The all-day workshop will take place on 1 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to agriculture and food production, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 2 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a workshop on how the health and safety sectors can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

Space solutions can play a significant role in addressing a number of key health and safety-related challenges currently facing society. From emergency caller location to the monitoring of elderly patients, European global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and Earth observation programmes, including Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus, are already having a substantial impact on our health and safety – and their role will only increase in the near future.  

An array of applications

In the field of health and safety, space technology has the potential to usher in paradigm shifts in prevention and independence, improving the management of health conditions, meeting the needs of an ageing population and improving environmental conditions for the well-being of society. Examples of space-derived applications for this sector include emergency-caller location, search and rescue operations, disaster management, telemedicine, guidance for the visually and physically impaired, and patient monitoring and management.

The H&S session foresees an opening keynote speaker from ARM, the multinational semiconductor and software design company listed in top 10 innovation companies in the world, to set the tone of the session and present a vision of the future solutions of geolocation in healthcare. The first part of the session will feature consumer applications for sports, fitness, ageing well and healthcare. The silver economy and solutions for location-aware assisted living will be some of the topics covered. Top level experts from STMicro representing the chipset industry, leading IT solution provider Comarch and device supplier Tom Tom as well as other innovative SMEs will share their perspective on this promising and dynamic industry.

In the second part the focus will be put on emergency response and disaster management applications. The important role of Galileo in the e112 initiative, EGNOS in emergency operations and Copernicus as part of solutions for emergency management services will be showcased. This part will serve as a prelude to the afternoon workshop on Galileo Search and Rescue which will bring together beacon manufacturers and other industrial and research players involved in SAR operations.

Register today!

The dynamic market of healthcare and safety is opening a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs, thanks also to Space solutions. To help European industry better understand – and access – this fast growing market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and health and safety as part of the European Space Solutions Conference.

The workshop will take place on 2 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to the health and safety sector, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

To raise awareness of the integral role that Galileo plays in the Internet of Things, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces its IoT solutions empowered by GNSS award. Apply today!

The Internet of Things (IoT) is everywhere. It’s connecting your personal cell phone, tablet computer and PC, and it’s making roads, signage and appliances smarter. In every sector of the economy, IoT is enabling objects to exchange data with manufacturers, operators and other devices – creating a vast integrated network of connected things and services that is expected to surpass 50 billion by 2020.

Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), including Galileo, play a key role in the Internet of Things, providing the positioning, velocity and timing information required by an increasing number of context-aware applications. However, despite this important contribution to IoT, the role of GNSS is often downplayed as an element within smart applications. 

Innovation wanted

To raise awareness of the integral role that GNSS plays in IoT and to ensure that European GNSS programmes are considered important players in this potentially massive global market, the GSA is sponsoring the IoT Solutions empowered by GNSS award – part of the 2016 Geo IoT Awards.  

“Galileo brings IoT better accuracy and availability due to its signal strength in such difficult environments as in the city, as well as an authenticated open signal,” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides. “With this award, the GSA is looking for the most innovative IoT applications that rely on GNSS and leverage the enhanced possibilities offered by Galileo.”

Whether you operate in the automotive sector, or in consumer electronics, smart cities, public transport, manufacturing, supply chain logistics, retail, leisure or healthcare, submit your innovative idea today.

The tailored support you need

The IoT Solutions empowered by GNSS award is specifically designed to take your innovative IoT idea to the next level. The award consists of an incubation period tailored around the needs and maturity of the winning idea. The award winner can expect:

• Tailored support such as: market analysis, business strategy and business plan development, resource mobilisation strategy and international positioning.
• Networking opportunities with industry and investors, investor relations and investor scouting.
• Access to a dedicated team of GSA-accredited consultants and coaches, along with an extensive network of industry and institutions, all specialised in the GEO IoT market.
• Promotion and visibility opportunities, including during the 25 May award ceremony.

Actual support provided depends on actual needs, with the ultimate objective of taking the project to market.

The details

The GSA’s IoT solutions empowered by GNSS award is part of the Geo IoT World Awards, which are open to all participants and celebrate innovation and innovators in geo-aware technologies. The objective of the award is to promote the development of applications that both create demand for Galileo and provide direct economic and social benefits to European society. As such, the GSA is looking for innovative ideas for IoT applications aligned with the evolving needs of the end-users. More information on the evaluation criteria can be found here.

All submissions must be received by 5 May 2016.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

To raise awareness of the integral role that Galileo plays in the Internet of Things, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces its IoT solutions empowered by GNSS award. Apply today!

The Internet of Things (IoT) is everywhere. It’s connecting your personal cell phone, tablet computer and PC, and it’s making roads, signage and appliances smarter. In every sector of the economy, IoT is enabling objects to exchange data with manufacturers, operators and other devices – creating a vast integrated network of connected things and services that is expected to surpass 50 billion by 2020.

Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), including Galileo, play a key role in the Internet of Things, providing the positioning, velocity and timing information required by an increasing number of context-aware applications. However, despite this important contribution to IoT, the role of GNSS is often downplayed as an element within smart applications. 

Innovation wanted

To raise awareness of the integral role that GNSS plays in IoT and to ensure that European GNSS programmes are considered important players in this potentially massive global market, the GSA is sponsoring the IoT Solutions empowered by GNSS award – part of the 2016 Geo IoT Awards.  

“Galileo brings IoT better accuracy and availability due to its signal strength in such difficult environments as in the city, as well as an authenticated open signal,” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides. “With this award, the GSA is looking for the most innovative IoT applications that rely on GNSS and leverage the enhanced possibilities offered by Galileo.”

Whether you operate in the automotive sector, or in consumer electronics, smart cities, public transport, manufacturing, supply chain logistics, retail, leisure or healthcare, submit your innovative idea today.

The tailored support you need

The IoT Solutions empowered by GNSS award is specifically designed to take your innovative IoT idea to the next level. The award consists of an incubation period tailored around the needs and maturity of the winning idea. The award winner can expect:

• Tailored support such as: market analysis, business strategy and business plan development, resource mobilisation strategy and international positioning.
• Networking opportunities with industry and investors, investor relations and investor scouting.
• Access to a dedicated team of GSA-accredited consultants and coaches, along with an extensive network of industry and institutions, all specialised in the GEO IoT market.
• Promotion and visibility opportunities, including during the 25 May award ceremony.

Actual support provided depends on actual needs, with the ultimate objective of taking the project to market.

The details

The GSA’s IoT solutions empowered by GNSS award is part of the Geo IoT World Awards, which are open to all participants and celebrate innovation and innovators in geo-aware technologies. The objective of the award is to promote the development of applications that both create demand for Galileo and provide direct economic and social benefits to European society. As such, the GSA is looking for innovative ideas for IoT applications aligned with the evolving needs of the end-users. More information on the evaluation criteria can be found here.

All submissions must be received by 14 May 2016.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

At the 13th Munich Satellite Navigation Summit, the European GNSS Agency (GSA joined in to debate three of the hottest issues: GNSS timing services, Galileo’s unique Public Regulated Service (PRS) and GNSS for autonomous vehicles.

The timing services supplied by GNSS are an increasingly important, but often unrecognised, part of today’s modern infrastructure. This is because the vital role of space-based timing is only exposed when it fails. To shed some light on just how important these services are, this year the Munich Satellite Summit’s legal session focused on the timing aspects of GNSS.

“Many sophisticated timing applications rely on GNSS signals,” said BHO legal partner Dr Oliver Heinrich. “However, they tend to be taken for granted and are only noticed when things go wrong, such as what happened on 26 January when a software upload to GPS satellites induced a 13 millisecond misalignment – a small difference that had a big global impact.”

         Also read: EGNOS protects GNSS timing

According to Meinberg Funkuhren GmbH & Co.’s managing director Heiko Gerstung, this glitch caused Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers to exhibit different and unwanted behaviour that led to a loss of synchronisation across a number of systems, including power grids and financial markets. Although the issue was quickly detected and resolved in a few hours, it nonetheless had a real global impact, with numerous digital TV and radio networks failing and some financial customers reporting issues. “Trust is good, reality checks and consistency checks are better,” said Gerstung. “Back-up reference sources are important for [these] highly critical systems.”

The Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG Growth) Deputy Head of Unit, Galileo and EGNOS – Applications and Security, Christoph Kautz, noted a number of other events that demonstrate the critical nature of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) timing. “Reliance on GNSS timing will only increase as smarter power grids are developed and more sophisticated mobile communication networks, such as 5G, are deployed in support of the Internet of Things and other sensor networks,” he said. “All of these will require more and better synchronisation.”

As part of the new Space Strategy for Europe, a Galileo roadmap will identify possible measures to support market uptake by the EU economy in all areas, including timing. “This will be a strategic approach based on a set of technical, sector-based initiatives that are selected for maximum impact,” said Kautz. 

Diamond service?

Another area where Galileo is likely to have maximum impact is the Public Regulated Service (PRS). The PRS will provide a robust and encrypted positioning and timing capability restricted to governmental authorised users. Speaking at the event, DG Growth Head of Unit, Galileo Directorate Philippe Jean described the service and the access control mechanisms that will minimise interfering threats and so offer continuity of service in times of crisis. “The PRS signal structure has better resilience to jamming and interference,” he said. Jean also said that the Member States and the Commission are considering how to allow secure access to PRS by third-party countries.

         Read also: 2016 – the Year of Galileo

“Active contributions from all the different stakeholders involved in PRS is required to ensure delivery of service to authorised users,” added GSA PRS Officer Marco Detratti. “Competent PRS authorities (CPAs) are being established at the national level, but to build trust, the system and equipment must deliver a truly robust service that grants unlimited and uninterrupted access worldwide.”

Every Member State that uses PRS must establish a CPA. According to French Competent PRS Authority Colonel Philippe Bertrand, the French CPA is part of an inter-ministerial department for defence and security. The legal decree to regulate PRS in France is in development, and he believes there is no doubt that the PRS community will come when PRS is available. “PRS is a diamond – a beautiful object – when it meets performances continuously and worldwide,” he concluded.

The German perspective came from Kai Herrmann from the German CPA, who agreed that PRS is a key technology for the digital society. He noted that Germany was collaborating with Sweden to prepare an area to demonstrate PRS. Salvatore Viviano of the Agenzia Spaziale Italiana added that Italy is committed to providing PRS users with effective access control and a high level of service continuity. He also promised manufacturers support for production and export of receivers and other equipment.

Perhaps the most enthusiastic promoter of PRS at the Summit was UK Space Agency Head of Galileo Policy Imogen Ormerod. “PRS is unique: the ability to have confidence in the signal is ground breaking,” she said. “If done right, PRS has unique and unchallenged potential and the opportunity to be the jewel in Galileo’s crown.” She further noted that although the future market will be extensive as there is no real competition, the provision of timely initial services will be key.

GNSS driving autonomy?

Speaking at a session completely dedicated to autonomous vehicles, GSA Head of Market Development Gian-Gherardo Calini said that accurate and reliable positioning information is a clear enabler for autonomous vehicles. “With its dual frequencies, better reliability and ability to cope with multi-path characteristics in urban environments, Galileo could be a big differentiator in this potentially huge market,” he said.

However, implementing the technologies is challenging. For example, according to Centro Ricerche Fiat Programme Manager Luisa Andreone, the higher you moved up the automation levels in vehicles, the more accurate the positioning requirements are. Other key elements are signal availability, integrity, affordability and regulations. Furthermore, complementary techniques for positioning are also important. According to the ISMB Head of Research Area, Multi-Layer Wireless Solutions, Dr Riccardo Scopigno, more precise, absolute and authenticated position data is needed at higher levels of automation. He is confident, however, that this can be obtained using Galileo signals in an intelligent data fusion with information from other sensor systems.

BASELABS GmbH project specialist and GNSS researcher Marcus Obst agreed, saying that integration of data reduced ambiguities and allowed the definition of robust and safe autonomous processes. Magneti Marelli S.p.A. professional expert Evaldo Bruci added that precise positioning must work hand-in-hand with image processing and also with accurate maps. He estimated that to achieve reliable and safe autonomous driving, a minimum of 20-centimetre position accuracy was needed. In addition, technical solutions for mass-market implementation must not significantly add to the current cost of a vehicle.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 3 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a workshop on how the energy sector can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

Energy – and in particular sustainable energy – is one of the most challenging topics of our time. Questions such as ‘how can we realise a sustainable energy system within the constraints of climate change and increasing resource scarcity?’ and ‘how can we accomplish the transition to a low-carbon economy?’ have no easy answers. Furthermore, the ongoing transition to sustainable energy involves a large number of stakeholders, users and providers, all coming to the table from a variety of disciplines, which makes finding an agreeable solution all the more challenging.

Space solutions can play a significant role in addressing a number of these energy-related challenges. From providing data and better understanding regional and global conditions to influencing smart grids, transmitting electricity and protecting critical infrastructure, the European global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and Earth observation programmes, including Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigational Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus, are already having a substantial impact on energy production, transportation and conservation.

An array of applications

In the field of energy, space technology has the potential to have a substantial impact. Already Earth observation and satellite navigation applications are aiding energy supply and management professionals and users in consumer-orientated markets in promoting products and services. For example, the Horizon 2020-funded EASY PV project is using GNSS to address the growing need for photovoltaic (PV) field owners to enhance the energy production of their plants. The project is building an automatic system for acquiring, geo-referencing and processing both visible and thermal images captured by a remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) equipped with a Galileo/EGNOS high-accuracy receiver flying over a PV field – making it possible to easily detect and replace defective modules.

Likewise, the LARA project is using state-of-the-art GNSS technologies and interactive computer graphics to allow utility workers to ‘see’ 3D models of underground water, gas and electric grids – with no random digging required. With such precise information available from a mobile, hand-held device, maintenance costs are reduced, as well as the economic, social and environmental implications of lengthy service.

Register today!

As a significant share of the energy market involves GNSS applications and services such as the ones highlighted here, there is a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and energy as part of the European Space Solutions Conference. 

The Energy Focus Session is a unique opportunity to hear first-hand about the role of GNSS within this dynamic sector. Topics include renewable energy technologies, early-warning systems and risk management, tools for impact assessment and monitoring, using Earth observation to maintain offshore wind farms, satellite-based plant monitoring and GNSS-based timing for power grids – among others.

Users from both public and private sectors will be present, including speakers from the European Union, national energy agencies and organisations, the GSA, and a range of various research institutions and related businesses. The workshop will take place on 3 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to the energy sector, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 3 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a workshop on how the energy sector can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

Energy – and in particular sustainable energy – is one of the most challenging topics of our time. Questions such as ‘how can we realise a sustainable energy system within the constraints of climate change and increasing resource scarcity?’ and ‘how can we accomplish the transition to a low-carbon economy?’ have no easy answers. Furthermore, the ongoing transition to sustainable energy involves a large number of stakeholders, users and providers, all coming to the table from a variety of disciplines, which makes finding an agreeable solution all the more challenging.

Space solutions can play a significant role in addressing a number of these energy-related challenges. From providing data and better understanding regional and global conditions to influencing smart grids, transmitting electricity and protecting critical infrastructure, the European global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and Earth observation programmes, including Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigational Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus, are already having a substantial impact on energy production, transportation and conservation.

An array of applications

In the field of energy, space technology has the potential to have a substantial impact. Already Earth observation and satellite navigation applications are aiding energy supply and management professionals and users in consumer-orientated markets in promoting products and services. For example, the Horizon 2020-funded EASY PV project is using GNSS to address the growing need for photovoltaic (PV) field owners to enhance the energy production of their plants. The project is building an automatic system for acquiring, geo-referencing and processing both visible and thermal images captured by a remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) equipped with a Galileo/EGNOS high-accuracy receiver flying over a PV field – making it possible to easily detect and replace defective modules.

Likewise, the LARA project is using state-of-the-art GNSS technologies and interactive computer graphics to allow utility workers to ‘see’ 3D models of underground water, gas and electric grids – with no random digging required. With such precise information available from a mobile, hand-held device, maintenance costs are reduced, as well as the economic, social and environmental implications of lengthy service.

Register today!

As a significant share of the energy market involves GNSS applications and services such as the ones highlighted here, there is a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and energy as part of the European Space Solutions Conference. 

The Energy Focus Session is a unique opportunity to hear first-hand about the role of GNSS within this dynamic sector. Topics include renewable energy technologies, early-warning systems and risk management, tools for impact assessment and monitoring, using Earth observation to maintain offshore wind farms, satellite-based plant monitoring and GNSS-based timing for power grids – among others.

Users from both public and private sectors will be present, including speakers from the European Union, national energy agencies and organisations, the GSA, and a range of various research institutions and related businesses. The workshop will take place on 3 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to the energy sector, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 3 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a workshop on how river deltas and related areas can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

There’s a lot happening at the world’s busy river deltas. On the one hand, these areas are hotspots for trade, industry, agriculture and urbanisation. On the other hand, they often exhibit both a high level of biodiversity and a fragile ecosystem. As the sea and waterways continue to serve as a popular mode of transporting goods around the world, to accommodate this traffic river deltas are often characterised by rapid development that, because of their fragile ecosystems, leads to flooding, land subsidence and environmental degradation. Trying to balance the need to protect the environment while maintaining the utility of river deltas is an ongoing challenge.

Space solutions can play a significant role in addressing a number of these specific river delta challenges. From providing interoperability across navigational areas and corresponding positioning, to monitoring land erosion and pollution, detecting illegal discharge and tracking environmental emergencies such as floods or oil spills, European global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and Earth observation programmes, including Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigational Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus, are already having a substantial impact on the development and management of Europe’s river deltas.

An array of applications

When it comes to river deltas, space technology has the potential to have a substantial impact. Already, Earth observation and satellite navigation applications are aiding an array of activities happening in these unique areas. For example, the Horizon 2020-funded spyGLASS project is developing a Passive Bistatic Radar (PBR) based on Galileo transmissions for maritime surveillance.  The use of existing transmissions for PBR applications is already becoming increasingly popular due to their low costs, covert operation and minimal level of pollution – benefits that will all be enhanced with the addition of Galileo. 

Likewise, the Mobile Underwater Positioning System (MUPS), winner of the DLR Special Prize at the 2015 European Satellite Navigation Competition, is using GNSS to explore the bottoms of lakes, seas and oceans. The system aids in discovering what is hidden in the depths of water reservoirs by supporting navigation and positioning. Based on GNSS signals and pseudolites with transmitters of modulated acoustic signals, MUPS makes it possible to determine the position of submerged objects. More so, unlike existing systems, MUPS is completely mobile, thus enabling users to change areas without any problem – an ideal feature for divers, environmentalists, archaeologists, marine engineers, researchers, submarines and anyone else working at the bottom of water reservoirs.

Register today!

As a significant share of the business and activities happening around Europe’s river deltas involves GNSS applications and services, such as the ones highlighted here, there is a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and river deltas as part of the European Space Solutions Conference. 

The River Deltas Focus Session is a unique opportunity to hear first-hand about the role of GNSS within this dynamic sector. Topics include river observation, the latest in international waterway policy, using Earth observation to maintain large river deltas, case studies from the Netherlands and Venice, underwater positioning, river traffic surveillance and soil moisture observations – among others.

Users from both the public and private sectors will be present, including speakers from the European Union, national river and waterway agencies and organisations, the GSA, and a range of various research institutions and related businesses. The workshop will take place on 3 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to river deltas, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

There’s a lot happening at the world’s busy river deltas. On the one hand, these areas are hotspots for trade, industry, agriculture and urbanisation. On the other hand, they often exhibit both a high level of biodiversity and a fragile ecosystem. As the sea and waterways continue to serve as a popular mode of transporting goods around the world, to accommodate this traffic river deltas are often characterised by rapid development that, because of their fragile ecosystems, leads to flooding, land subsidence and environmental degradation. Trying to balance the need to protect the environment while maintaining the utility of river deltas is an ongoing challenge.

Space solutions can play a significant role in addressing a number of these specific river delta challenges. From providing interoperability across navigational areas and corresponding positioning, to monitoring land erosion and pollution, detecting illegal discharge and tracking environmental emergencies such as floods or oil spills, European global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and Earth observation programmes, including Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigational Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus, are already having a substantial impact on the development and management of Europe’s river deltas.

An array of applications

When it comes to river deltas, space technology has the potential to have a substantial impact. Already, Earth observation and satellite navigation applications are aiding an array of activities happening in these unique areas. For example, the Horizon 2020-funded spyGLASS project is developing a Passive Bistatic Radar (PBR) based on Galileo transmissions for maritime surveillance.  The use of existing transmissions for PBR applications is already becoming increasingly popular due to their low costs, covert operation and minimal level of pollution – benefits that will all be enhanced with the addition of Galileo. 

Likewise, the Mobile Underwater Positioning System (MUPS), winner of the DLR Special Prize at the 2015 European Satellite Navigation Competition, is using GNSS to explore the bottoms of lakes, seas and oceans. The system aids in discovering what is hidden in the depths of water reservoirs by supporting navigation and positioning. Based on GNSS signals and pseudolites with transmitters of modulated acoustic signals, MUPS makes it possible to determine the position of submerged objects. More so, unlike existing systems, MUPS is completely mobile, thus enabling users to change areas without any problem – an ideal feature for divers, environmentalists, archaeologists, marine engineers, researchers, submarines and anyone else working at the bottom of water reservoirs.

Register today!

As a significant share of the business and activities happening around Europe’s river deltas involves GNSS applications and services, such as the ones highlighted here, there is a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and river deltas as part of the European Space Solutions Conference. 

The River Deltas Focus Session is a unique opportunity to hear first-hand about the role of GNSS within this dynamic sector. Topics include river observation, the latest in international waterway policy, using Earth observation to maintain large river deltas, case studies from the Netherlands and Venice, underwater positioning, river traffic surveillance and soil moisture observations – among others.

Users from both the public and private sectors will be present, including speakers from the European Union, national river and waterway agencies and organisations, the GSA, and a range of various research institutions and related businesses. The workshop will take place on 3 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to river deltas, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link the article back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 3 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a workshop on how river deltas and related areas can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

There’s a lot happening at the world’s busy river deltas. On the one hand, these areas are hotspots for trade, industry, agriculture and urbanisation. On the other hand, they often exhibit both a high level of biodiversity and a fragile ecosystem. As the sea and waterways continue to serve as a popular mode of transporting goods around the world, to accommodate this traffic river deltas are often characterised by rapid development that, because of their fragile ecosystems, leads to flooding, land subsidence and environmental degradation. Trying to balance the need to protect the environment while maintaining the utility of river deltas is an ongoing challenge.

Space solutions can play a significant role in addressing a number of these specific river delta challenges. From providing interoperability across navigational areas and corresponding positioning, to monitoring land erosion and pollution, detecting illegal discharge and tracking environmental emergencies such as floods or oil spills, European global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and Earth observation programmes, including Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigational Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus, are already having a substantial impact on the development and management of Europe’s river deltas.

An array of applications

When it comes to river deltas, space technology has the potential to have a substantial impact. Already, Earth observation and satellite navigation applications are aiding an array of activities happening in these unique areas. For example, the Horizon 2020-funded spyGLASS project is developing a Passive Bistatic Radar (PBR) based on Galileo transmissions for maritime surveillance.  The use of existing transmissions for PBR applications is already becoming increasingly popular due to their low costs, covert operation and minimal level of pollution – benefits that will all be enhanced with the addition of Galileo. 

Likewise, the Mobile Underwater Positioning System (MUPS), winner of the DLR Special Prize at the 2015 European Satellite Navigation Competition, is using GNSS to explore the bottoms of lakes, seas and oceans. The system aids in discovering what is hidden in the depths of water reservoirs by supporting navigation and positioning. Based on GNSS signals and pseudolites with transmitters of modulated acoustic signals, MUPS makes it possible to determine the position of submerged objects. More so, unlike existing systems, MUPS is completely mobile, thus enabling users to change areas without any problem – an ideal feature for divers, environmentalists, archaeologists, marine engineers, researchers, submarines and anyone else working at the bottom of water reservoirs.

Register today!

As a significant share of the business and activities happening around Europe’s river deltas involves GNSS applications and services, such as the ones highlighted here, there is a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and river deltas as part of the European Space Solutions Conference. 

The River Deltas Focus Session is a unique opportunity to hear first-hand about the role of GNSS within this dynamic sector. Topics include river observation, the latest in international waterway policy, using Earth observation to maintain large river deltas, case studies from the Netherlands and Venice, underwater positioning, river traffic surveillance and soil moisture observations – among others.

Users from both the public and private sectors will be present, including speakers from the European Union, national river and waterway agencies and organisations, the GSA, and a range of various research institutions and related businesses. The workshop will take place on 3 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to river deltas, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link the article back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 3 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a workshop on how river deltas and related areas can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

There’s a lot happening at the world’s busy river deltas. On the one hand, these areas are hotspots for trade, industry, agriculture and urbanisation. On the other hand, they often exhibit both a high level of biodiversity and a fragile ecosystem. As the sea and waterways continue to serve as a popular mode of transporting goods around the world, to accommodate this traffic river deltas are often characterised by rapid development that, because of their fragile ecosystems, leads to flooding, land subsidence and environmental degradation. Trying to balance the need to protect the environment while maintaining the utility of river deltas is an ongoing challenge.

Space solutions can play a significant role in addressing a number of these specific river delta challenges. From providing interoperability across navigational areas and corresponding positioning, to monitoring land erosion and pollution, detecting illegal discharge and tracking environmental emergencies such as floods or oil spills, European global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and Earth observation programmes, including Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigational Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus, are already having a substantial impact on the development and management of Europe’s river deltas.

An array of applications

When it comes to river deltas, space technology has the potential to have a substantial impact. Already, Earth observation and satellite navigation applications are aiding an array of activities happening in these unique areas. For example, the Horizon 2020-funded spyGLASS project is developing a Passive Bistatic Radar (PBR) based on Galileo transmissions for maritime surveillance.  The use of existing transmissions for PBR applications is already becoming increasingly popular due to their low costs, covert operation and minimal level of pollution – benefits that will all be enhanced with the addition of Galileo. 

Likewise, the Mobile Underwater Positioning System (MUPS), winner of the DLR Special Prize at the 2015 European Satellite Navigation Competition, is using GNSS to explore the bottoms of lakes, seas and oceans. The system aids in discovering what is hidden in the depths of water reservoirs by supporting navigation and positioning. Based on GNSS signals and pseudolites with transmitters of modulated acoustic signals, MUPS makes it possible to determine the position of submerged objects. More so, unlike existing systems, MUPS is completely mobile, thus enabling users to change areas without any problem – an ideal feature for divers, environmentalists, archaeologists, marine engineers, researchers, submarines and anyone else working at the bottom of water reservoirs.

Register today!

As a significant share of the business and activities happening around Europe’s river deltas involves GNSS applications and services, such as the ones highlighted here, there is a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and river deltas as part of the European Space Solutions Conference. 

The River Deltas Focus Session is a unique opportunity to hear first-hand about the role of GNSS within this dynamic sector. Topics include river observation, the latest in international waterway policy, using Earth observation to maintain large river deltas, case studies from the Netherlands and Venice, underwater positioning, river traffic surveillance and soil moisture observations – among others.

Users from both the public and private sectors will be present, including speakers from the European Union, national river and waterway agencies and organisations, the GSA, and a range of various research institutions and related businesses. The workshop will take place on 3 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to river deltas, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 2 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a 1-day workshop on how environment-focused businesses and organisations can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

One of the most pressing issues impacting every aspect of our lives is climate change and the environment. From individuals to businesses, public policy to academia, climate change is a multi-faceted challenge that demands global solutions.

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and Earth observation technology, including Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus, are poised to play a key role in creating sustainable solutions to climate change. For example, both Galileo and Copernicus use satellite signals and data to help develop a better understanding of climate change and environmental issues via the accurate observation and measurement of, for instance, the state of the oceans or the chemical composition of the atmosphere.

Ample opportunities

Many European businesses operating in fields of climate change and the environment are looking to secure a share of the massive GNSS global market. According to the latest edition of the GSA GNSS market report, in 2014 there were 3.6 billion GNSS devices in use around the world. By 2019, this is forecasted to increase to over 7 billion. Furthermore, the global core GNSS downstream market is forecasted to increase by 8.3 % annually between 2013 and 2019. In other words, this downstream market is expected to grow, on average, much faster than the forecasted global gross domestic product (GDP) during the same period.

The downstream industry is characterised by a few very large companies and a plethora of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with European companies accounting for one quarter of the global GNSS market.

A significant share of this market involves GNSS applications and services, addressing issues relating to climate change and the environment – thus presenting a huge opportunity for European businesses, SMEs and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the GSA, under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency are organising a special session on ‘Space Solutions for climate change and the environment’ as part of the European Space Solutions Conference.

Register today!

The Climate Change and Environment Focus Session will address satellite data, information products and services related to the environment, climate change and air quality, with a focus on the impact these programmes will have on end-users and the opportunities available for European businesses.

Users from both the public and private domains will be present, including speakers from the European Commission, national environmental agencies, the GSA, the European Space Agency (ESA), the European Environmental Agency (EEA), and a range of research institutions and related businesses. The workshop will discuss the use of Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus in such arenas as the marine environment, atmospheric monitoring, air quality control and climate change, with a focus on the integration of space-based programmes with traditional ground-based measurements.

The all-day workshop will take place on 2 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to climate change and the environment, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 2 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a 1-day workshop on how environment-focused businesses and organisations can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

One of the most pressing issues impacting every aspect of our lives is climate change and the environment. From individuals to businesses, public policy to academia, climate change is a multi-faceted challenge that demands global solutions.

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and Earth observation technology, including Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus, are poised to play a key role in creating sustainable solutions to climate change. For example, both Galileo and Copernicus use satellite signals and data to help develop a better understanding of climate change and environmental issues via the accurate observation and measurement of, for instance, the state of the oceans or the chemical composition of the atmosphere.

Ample opportunities

Many European businesses operating in fields of climate change and the environment are looking to secure a share of the massive GNSS global market. According to the latest edition of the GSA GNSS market report, in 2014 there were 3.6 billion GNSS devices in use around the world. By 2019, this is forecasted to increase to over 7 billion. Furthermore, the global core GNSS downstream market is forecasted to increase by 8.3 % annually between 2013 and 2019. In other words, this downstream market is expected to grow, on average, much faster than the forecasted global gross domestic product (GDP) during the same period.

The downstream industry is characterised by a few very large companies and a plethora of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with European companies accounting for one quarter of the global GNSS market.

A significant share of this market involves GNSS applications and services, addressing issues relating to climate change and the environment – thus presenting a huge opportunity for European businesses, SMEs and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the GSA, under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency are organising a special session on ‘Space Solutions for climate change and the environment’ as part of the European Space Solutions Conference.

Register today!

The Climate Change and Environment Focus Session will address satellite data, information products and services related to the environment, climate change and air quality, with a focus on the impact these programmes will have on end-users and the opportunities available for European businesses.

Users from both the public and private domains will be present, including speakers from the European Commission, national environmental agencies, the GSA, the European Space Agency (ESA), the European Environmental Agency (EEA), and a range of research institutions and related businesses. The workshop will discuss the use of Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus in such arenas as the marine environment, atmospheric monitoring, air quality control and climate change, with a focus on the integration of space-based programmes with traditional ground-based measurements.

The all-day workshop will take place on 2 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to climate change and the environment, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 1 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a 1-day workshop on how the road and traffic management sectors can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

Space and satellite navigation are key enablers for the delivery of the next generation of mobility – and European Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) offers the precision, robustness and reliability needed for autonomous and connected vehicles, fleet management and payment-related applications.

In fact, navigation is one of the most common ways that GNSS programmes such as Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus can be used in smart mobility applications. For example, satellites help provide turn-by-turn information to drivers, cyclists and even pedestrians. They can be used in fleet management on-board units and road traffic monitoring services. GNSS also plays a critical role in providing smart emergency services, with Europe’s eCall system using GNSS to automatically communicate a vehicle’s exact location to emergency services whenever an accident occurs.

    Also read: GNSS applications in the road sector

Furthermore, the positioning data provided by liability applications are linked to legal and economic liabilities, including Road User Charging (RUC) and insurance telematics. Thanks to its flexibility, satellite navigation has become the preferred solution for electronic tolling, with countries like Germany, Slovakia, Switzerland and Hungary having already successfully implemented GNSS-based tolling schemes.

An array of applications

Many companies and projects are already developing GNSS-based applications to serve the growing demands for smart mobility solutions. For instance, the Horizon 2020-funded Saturn project  has demonstrated how the open basis availability of Earth observation (EO) data, combined with public or crowd-sourced GNSS-based transport data, can help urban and regional authorities implement more efficient transportation and urban planning. Also in the public transport domain, Kordis JMK, the operator of public transport in the South Moravian Region of the Czech Republic, uses GNSS surveillance to guarantee passenger connections for those changing between different modes of transport.  Other innovative examples come from entrepreneurs like Geoimagine, whose network optimiser solution for fleet management uses mobile sensors to optimise itineraries to drive taxis towards areas with a higher potential number of clients depending on the time of day.   

As a relatively new phenomenon, autonomous and connected vehicles are positioning themselves as the way of the future. Major vehicle manufactures are already delivering autonomous cars with such connected driver services as weather reports, and accident and traffic warnings. As the sophistication of these applications increases, GNSS will play a substantial role in providing accurate information for these vehicles. For example, Galileo is set to provide an even stronger service that is more resistant to multipath interference in urban canyons and will provide an authenticated signal capable of detecting spoofing attacks.

Ample opportunities

With growing cities and increased public transport, it is clear that GNSS services will become more and more important, and applications such as these are looking to secure a share of the massive GNSS global market. According to the latest edition of the GSA GNSS market report, GNSS receivers and services will have an estimated core revenue of EUR 36 billion by 2018, showing that EGNOS and Galileo-related road applications are in demand and will assist in optimising mobility for years to come.

A significant share of this market involves GNSS applications and services addressing issues relating to smart mobility – thus presenting a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and smart mobility as part of the European Space Solutions Conference.

Register today!

The Smart Mobility Focus Session will address a wide range of applications for road and traffic management companies, including liability-critical applications, public transportation, smart cities and the driverless car. The session will highlight both state-of-the-art solutions and innovation, where the latest research and development (R&D) will demonstrate exciting ways in which space applications can influence the next generation of transport systems.  

Users from both the public and private domains will be present, including speakers from the European Commission, national transportation agencies, the GSA, and a range of various research institutions and related businesses, including Fiat automaker. The all-day workshop will take place on 1 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to road and traffic management, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 1 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a 1-day workshop on how the road and traffic management sectors can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

Space and satellite navigation are key enablers for the delivery of the next generation of mobility – and European Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) offers the precision, robustness and reliability needed for autonomous and connected vehicles, fleet management and payment-related applications.

In fact, navigation is one of the most common ways that GNSS programmes such as Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus can be used in smart mobility applications. For example, satellites help provide turn-by-turn information to drivers, cyclists and even pedestrians. They can be used in fleet management on-board units and road traffic monitoring services. GNSS also plays a critical role in providing smart emergency services, with Europe’s eCall system using GNSS to automatically communicate a vehicle’s exact location to emergency services whenever an accident occurs.

    Also read: GNSS applications in the road sector

Furthermore, the positioning data provided by liability applications are linked to legal and economic liabilities, including Road User Charging (RUC) and insurance telematics. Thanks to its flexibility, satellite navigation has become the preferred solution for electronic tolling, with countries like Germany, Slovakia, Switzerland and Hungary having already successfully implemented GNSS-based tolling schemes.

An array of applications

Many companies and projects are already developing GNSS-based applications to serve the growing demands for smart mobility solutions. For instance, the Horizon 2020-funded Saturn project  has demonstrated how the open basis availability of Earth observation (EO) data, combined with public or crowd-sourced GNSS-based transport data, can help urban and regional authorities implement more efficient transportation and urban planning. Also in the public transport domain, Kordis JMK, the operator of public transport in the South Moravian Region of the Czech Republic, uses GNSS surveillance to guarantee passenger connections for those changing between different modes of transport.  Other innovative examples come from entrepreneurs like Geoimagine, whose network optimiser solution for fleet management uses mobile sensors to optimise itineraries to drive taxis towards areas with a higher potential number of clients depending on the time of day.   

As a relatively new phenomenon, autonomous and connected vehicles are positioning themselves as the way of the future. Major vehicle manufactures are already delivering autonomous cars with such connected driver services as weather reports, and accident and traffic warnings. As the sophistication of these applications increases, GNSS will play a substantial role in providing accurate information for these vehicles. For example, Galileo is set to provide an even stronger service that is more resistant to multipath interference in urban canyons and will provide an authenticated signal capable of detecting spoofing attacks.

Ample opportunities

With growing cities and increased public transport, it is clear that GNSS services will become more and more important, and applications such as these are looking to secure a share of the massive GNSS global market. According to the latest edition of the GSA GNSS market report, GNSS receivers and services will have an estimated core revenue of EUR 36 billion by 2018, showing that EGNOS and Galileo-related road applications are in demand and will assist in optimising mobility for years to come.

A significant share of this market involves GNSS applications and services addressing issues relating to smart mobility – thus presenting a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and smart mobility as part of the European Space Solutions Conference.

Register today!

The Smart Mobility Focus Session will address a wide range of applications for road and traffic management companies, including liability-critical applications, public transportation, smart cities and the driverless car. The session will highlight both state-of-the-art solutions and innovation, where the latest research and development (R&D) will demonstrate exciting ways in which space applications can influence the next generation of transport systems.  

Users from both the public and private domains will be present, including speakers from the European Commission, national transportation agencies, the GSA, and a range of various research institutions and related businesses, including Fiat automaker. The all-day workshop will take place on 1 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to road and traffic management, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 1 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a 1-day workshop on how the road and traffic management sectors can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

Space and satellite navigation are key enablers for the delivery of the next generation of mobility – and European Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) offers the precision, robustness and reliability needed for autonomous and connected vehicles, fleet management and payment-related applications.

In fact, navigation is one of the most common ways that GNSS programmes such as Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus can be used in smart mobility applications. For example, satellites help provide turn-by-turn information to drivers, cyclists and even pedestrians. They can be used in fleet management on-board units and road traffic monitoring services. GNSS also plays a critical role in providing smart emergency services, with Europe’s eCall system using GNSS to automatically communicate a vehicle’s exact location to emergency services whenever an accident occurs.

    Also read: GNSS applications in the road sector

Furthermore, the positioning data provided by liability applications are linked to legal and economic liabilities, including Road User Charging (RUC) and insurance telematics. Thanks to its flexibility, satellite navigation has become the preferred solution for electronic tolling, with countries like Germany, Slovakia, Switzerland and Hungary having already successfully implemented GNSS-based tolling schemes.

An array of applications

Many companies and projects are already developing GNSS-based applications to serve the growing demands for smart mobility solutions. For instance, the Horizon 2020-funded Saturn project  has demonstrated how the open basis availability of Earth observation (EO) data, combined with public or crowd-sourced GNSS-based transport data, can help urban and regional authorities implement more efficient transportation and urban planning. Also in the public transport domain, Kordis JMK, the operator of public transport in the South Moravian Region of the Czech Republic, uses GNSS surveillance to guarantee passenger connections for those changing between different modes of transport.  Other innovative examples come from entrepreneurs like Geoimagine, whose network optimiser solution for fleet management uses mobile sensors to optimise itineraries to drive taxis towards areas with a higher potential number of clients depending on the time of day.   

As a relatively new phenomenon, autonomous and connected vehicles are positioning themselves as the way of the future. Major vehicle manufactures are already delivering autonomous cars with such connected driver services as weather reports, and accident and traffic warnings. As the sophistication of these applications increases, GNSS will play a substantial role in providing accurate information for these vehicles. For example, Galileo is set to provide an even stronger service that is more resistant to multipath interference in urban canyons and will provide an authenticated signal capable of detecting spoofing attacks.

Ample opportunities

With growing cities and increased public transport, it is clear that GNSS services will become more and more important, and applications such as these are looking to secure a share of the massive GNSS global market. According to the latest edition of the GSA GNSS market report, GNSS receivers and services will have an estimated core revenue of EUR 36 billion by 2018, showing that EGNOS and Galileo-related road applications are in demand and will assist in optimising mobility for years to come.

A significant share of this market involves GNSS applications and services addressing issues relating to smart mobility – thus presenting a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and smart mobility as part of the European Space Solutions Conference.

Register today!

The Smart Mobility Focus Session will address a wide range of applications for road and traffic management companies, including liability-critical applications, public transportation, smart cities and the driverless car. The session will highlight both state-of-the-art solutions and innovation, where the latest research and development (R&D) will demonstrate exciting ways in which space applications can influence the next generation of transport systems.  

Users from both the public and private domains will be present, including speakers from the European Commission, national transportation agencies, the GSA, and a range of various research institutions and related businesses, including Fiat automaker. The all-day workshop will take place on 1 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to road and traffic management, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On 1 June, the 2016 European Space Solutions event features a 1-day workshop on how the road and traffic management sectors can benefit from European satellite navigation and Earth observation information.

Space and satellite navigation are key enablers for the delivery of the next generation of mobility – and European Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) offers the precision, robustness and reliability needed for autonomous and connected vehicles, fleet management and payment-related applications.

In fact, navigation is one of the most common ways that GNSS programmes such as Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and Copernicus can be used in smart mobility applications. For example, satellites help provide turn-by-turn information to drivers, cyclists and even pedestrians. They can be used in fleet management on-board units and road traffic monitoring services. GNSS also plays a critical role in providing smart emergency services, with Europe’s eCall system using GNSS to automatically communicate a vehicle’s exact location to emergency services whenever an accident occurs.

    Also read: GNSS applications in the road sector

Furthermore, the positioning data provided by liability applications are linked to legal and economic liabilities, including Road User Charging (RUC) and insurance telematics. Thanks to its flexibility, satellite navigation has become the preferred solution for electronic tolling, with countries like Germany, Slovakia, Switzerland and Hungary having already successfully implemented GNSS-based tolling schemes.

An array of applications

Many companies and projects are already developing GNSS-based applications to serve the growing demands for smart mobility solutions. For instance, the Horizon 2020-funded Saturn project  has demonstrated how the open basis availability of Earth observation (EO) data, combined with public or crowd-sourced GNSS-based transport data, can help urban and regional authorities implement more efficient transportation and urban planning. Also in the public transport domain, Kordis JMK, the operator of public transport in the South Moravian Region of the Czech Republic, uses GNSS surveillance to guarantee passenger connections for those changing between different modes of transport.  Other innovative examples come from entrepreneurs like Geoimagine, whose network optimiser solution for fleet management uses mobile sensors to optimise itineraries to drive taxis towards areas with a higher potential number of clients depending on the time of day.   

As a relatively new phenomenon, autonomous and connected vehicles are positioning themselves as the way of the future. Major vehicle manufactures are already delivering autonomous cars with such connected driver services as weather reports, and accident and traffic warnings. As the sophistication of these applications increases, GNSS will play a substantial role in providing accurate information for these vehicles. For example, Galileo is set to provide an even stronger service that is more resistant to multipath interference in urban canyons and will provide an authenticated signal capable of detecting spoofing attacks.

Ample opportunities

With growing cities and increased public transport, it is clear that GNSS services will become more and more important, and applications such as these are looking to secure a share of the massive GNSS global market. According to the latest edition of the GSA GNSS market report, GNSS receivers and services will have an estimated core revenue of EUR 36 billion by 2018, showing that EGNOS and Galileo-related road applications are in demand and will assist in optimising mobility for years to come.

A significant share of this market involves GNSS applications and services addressing issues relating to smart mobility – thus presenting a huge opportunity for European businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. To help European industry better understand – and access – this lucrative market, the European Commission and the European GNSS Agency (GSA), under the auspices of the Dutch Council Presidency, are organising a special session on GNSS and smart mobility as part of the European Space Solutions Conference.

Register today!

The Smart Mobility Focus Session will address a wide range of applications for road and traffic management companies, including liability-critical applications, public transportation, smart cities and the driverless car. The session will highlight both state-of-the-art solutions and innovation, where the latest research and development (R&D) will demonstrate exciting ways in which space applications can influence the next generation of transport systems.  

Users from both the public and private domains will be present, including speakers from the European Commission, national transportation agencies, the GSA, and a range of various research institutions and related businesses, including Fiat automaker. The all-day workshop will take place on 1 June 2016 as part of the European Space Solutions Conference in The Hague, The Netherlands. To ensure your business doesn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to get first-hand insights into how space offers real solutions to road and traffic management, secure your place by registering today.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

At the World ATM Congress in Madrid, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) recognised the latest ANSPs to implement EGNOS-based approaches, along with highlighting how the programme drives European aviation.

European airports and aircraft operators are reaping the rewards of EGNOS, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service. This is particularly true of small and regional airports, and the operators of business and general aviation aircraft. Speaking at a GSA-sponsored event on EGNOS and aviation during this week’s World Air Traffic Management (ATM) Congress in Madrid, GSA Market Development Officer Carmen Aguilera highlighted how the increasing number of airports with localiser performance with vertical guidance (LPVs) procedures in place continues to increase. “But procedures aren’t very useful if nobody is using them,” she says, noting that many common new aircraft and rotorcraft coming onto the market are satellite-based augmentation systems- (SBAS) ready. This includes the likes of such manufacturers as ATR, Airbus, Bombardier, Cessna, Dassault Falcon Jets, Hawker, Beechcraft and Pilatus. “In addition to the new aircraft models being manufactured, we are also seeing more and more retrofit solutions that allow legacy aircraft to add EGNOS capabilities– another positive sign that operators of all types of aircraft models understand the many benefits of the programme,” she adds.

Eager airports and ANSPs

Considering the safety and cost benefits of EGNOS implementation, it is no wonder that so many European airports and air navigation service providers (ANSPs) are looking to publish EGNOS-enabled LPV approaches.

Many of Europe’s small and regional airports simply cannot afford the high costs of installing and maintaining ground-based Instrument Landing Systems (ILS). As an alternative to ground-based ILS navigational aids, technology such as EGNOS utilises geostationary satellites and a network of ground stations to receive, analyse and augment Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and, soon, Galileo signals. With EGNOS, these satellite signals become suitable for such safety-critical applications as aircraft landing. Thus, EGNOS-enabled LPV-200 supports lateral and angular vertical guidance with a decision height of 200 feet. This is a capability similar to what is provided by ground-based navigational aids, but without the same financial burden of installing, maintaining and calibrating ground equipment. In fact, the LPV-200 service uses EGNOS signals that are free and do not require additional upgrades to existing airport infrastructure or EGNOS-certified receivers.

“The implementation of these approaches are most important in places that do not have ground-based navigation equipment, such as small and regional airports,” says Eurocontrol’s Deputy Head of the Navigation and CNS Research, Rick Farnworth. “At these airports, these procedures mean increased safety and better situational awareness for the pilot.”

In addition to supporting precision landings, the fact that EGNOS is not tied to ground-based guidance equipment means that different categories of aircraft could potentially use different approaches on the same runway end.

Speaking on the process of implementation, European Satellite Service Provider (ESSP) CEO Thierry Racaud commented on the growing number of EWAs being signed: “Forty EWAs are already signed, including 12 in 2015 and another 10 planned for 2016 – tripling the number over the last 2 years,” he says. “In addition to our objective of having 340 LPV procedures published by the end of this year, we are also working to extend the EGNOS coverage area, particularly to the southeast Mediterranean region.”

Expanding into the Blue

As to this later objective, the Horizon 2020 co-funded BLUEGNSS Project is working to bring EGNOS to this very challenging region. “Today the southeast Mediterranean region lacks full EGNOS coverage,” explains GNSS Expert Patrizio Vanni of Ente Nazionale Di Assistenza Al Volo (ENAV, the Air Navigation Service Provider in Italy). “To make things even more challenging, each airport involved in the project presents a very different operational environment.”

Recognising the safety, operational and economic benefits of EGNOS implementation, the project is working not only to implement EGNOS-based approaches at airports where no precision approaches are currently available, but also to provide the necessary GNSS training to use these procedures once published. “This process isn’t only about implementing procedures, but also about ensuring that individual countries can do the procedures independently by providing the training material and methods via our ENAV training academy,” adds Vanni.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

At the World ATM Congress in Madrid, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) recognised the latest ANSPs to implement EGNOS-based approaches, along with highlighting how the programme drives European aviation.

European airports and aircraft operators are reaping the rewards of EGNOS, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service. This is particularly true of small and regional airports, and the operators of business and general aviation aircraft. Speaking at a GSA-sponsored event on EGNOS and aviation during this week’s World Air Traffic Management (ATM) Congress in Madrid, GSA Market Development Officer Carmen Aguilera highlighted how the increasing number of airports with localiser performance with vertical guidance (LPVs) procedures in place continues to increase. “But procedures aren’t very useful if nobody is using them,” she says, noting that many common new aircraft and rotorcraft coming onto the market are satellite-based augmentation systems- (SBAS) ready. This includes the likes of such manufacturers as ATR, Airbus, Bombardier, Cessna, Dassault Falcon Jets, Hawker, Beechcraft and Pilatus. “In addition to the new aircraft models being manufactured, we are also seeing more and more retrofit solutions that allow legacy aircraft to add EGNOS capabilities– another positive sign that operators of all types of aircraft models understand the many benefits of the programme,” she adds.

Eager airports and ANSPs

Considering the safety and cost benefits of EGNOS implementation, it is no wonder that so many European airports and air navigation service providers (ANSPs) are looking to publish EGNOS-enabled LPV approaches.

Many of Europe’s small and regional airports simply cannot afford the high costs of installing and maintaining ground-based Instrument Landing Systems (ILS). As an alternative to ground-based ILS navigational aids, technology such as EGNOS utilises geostationary satellites and a network of ground stations to receive, analyse and augment Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and, soon, Galileo signals. With EGNOS, these satellite signals become suitable for such safety-critical applications as aircraft landing. Thus, EGNOS-enabled LPV-200 supports lateral and angular vertical guidance with a decision height of 200 feet. This is a capability similar to what is provided by ground-based navigational aids, but without the same financial burden of installing, maintaining and calibrating ground equipment. In fact, the LPV-200 service uses EGNOS signals that are free and do not require additional upgrades to existing airport infrastructure or EGNOS-certified receivers.

“The implementation of these approaches are most important in places that do not have ground-based navigation equipment, such as small and regional airports,” says Eurocontrol’s Deputy Head of the Navigation and CNS Research, Rick Farnworth. “At these airports, these procedures mean increased safety and better situational awareness for the pilot.”

In addition to supporting precision landings, the fact that EGNOS is not tied to ground-based guidance equipment means that different categories of aircraft could potentially use different approaches on the same runway end.

Speaking on the process of implementation, European Satellite Service Provider (ESSP) CEO Thierry Racaud commented on the growing number of EWAs being signed: “Forty EWAs are already signed, including 12 in 2015 and another 10 planned for 2016 – tripling the number over the last 2 years,” he says. “In addition to our objective of having 340 LPV procedures published by the end of this year, we are also working to extend the EGNOS coverage area, particularly to the southeast Mediterranean region.”

Expanding into the Blue

As to this later objective, the Horizon 2020 co-funded BLUEGNSS Project is working to bring EGNOS to this very challenging region. “Today the southeast Mediterranean region lacks full EGNOS coverage,” explains GNSS Expert Patrizio Vanni of Ente Nazionale Di Assistenza Al Volo (ENAV, the Air Navigation Service Provider in Italy). “To make things even more challenging, each airport involved in the project presents a very different operational environment.”

Recognising the safety, operational and economic benefits of EGNOS implementation, the project is working not only to implement EGNOS-based approaches at airports where no precision approaches are currently available, but also to provide the necessary GNSS training to use these procedures once published. “This process isn’t only about implementing procedures, but also about ensuring that individual countries can do the procedures independently by providing the training material and methods via our ENAV training academy,” adds Vanni.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The 13th Satellite Navigation Summit’s systems update sessions were once again an opportunity for GNSS stakeholders to review the world’s systems, with the GSA providing updates on Galileo and EGNOS.

Speaking at a recent system update session during the Munich Satellite Navigation Summit, the Head of Galileo and EGNOS Programme Management at the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG GROWTH), Paul Flament, noted his excitement about the major progress Galileo will show this year. According to Flament, the ground segment for Galileo is in place and working well, and all satellite launches are now ensured, with an anticipated six satellites joining the constellation of 12 during the course of the year.

Furthermore, 2016 will see the first quadruple satellite launch using the new Ariane 5 launcher. He says all currently contracted satellites will be launched by the end of 2018, creating a constellation of 26. A tender for the provision of an additional eight satellites by the end of 2020 is currently under way.

The two Galileo satellites that had been launched into incorrect orbits have been moved into more useful positions and can now be used for the search and rescue (SAR) functions, and perhaps also the Open Service. Flament said some testing with receiver manufacturers has shown that their signals are compatible with the service.

Flament further noted that a Galileo Service Definition document is under development, with a public version being released when Galileo Initial Services are launched later in the year. “Initial Services will be launched using the 12 satellites currently in orbit, following a thorough characterisation and observation of the system over the next 4 to 6 months,” he said.

A multi-constellation world

Galileo will soon be joining several other national and regional systems, including GPS, GLONASS and BeiDou, creating a truly multi-constellation environment. Providing an update on the status and modernisation of Global Positioning Systems (GPSs), Harold ‘Stormy’ Martin, Director of the National Coordination Office for Space-based Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT), noted there are now 31 operational satellites in orbit – the most there has ever been. He also praised the engineering team who successfully extended satellite battery life by up to 2 years, and noted that the system is gradually decreasing range errors and increasing accuracy year-on-year.

Looking to the future, the GPS III, currently in development, recently saw its first satellite complete thermal vacuum testing. Various upgrades to the ground segment are also planned to enhance cyber security and prepare for the next generation of satellites. Martin concluded by reiterating the USA’s commitment to the free access of civil GNSS signals as a critical element of the global information infrastructure and, in support of this objective, that GPS will show continuous improvement with reliable and predictable performance.

For the Russian point of view, the GLONASS update was provided by Tatiana Mirgorodskaya of the Roscosmos Space Agency. According to her, the 2012 Russian federal budget had secured funding for the programme for 9 years. As a result, performance is improving in terms of accuracy and integrity, and in difficult signal conditions. She also highlighted that the GLONASS-based state emergency system for automobile transport (ERA-GLONASS) is now in service and has proved very effective.

The status of the Chinese BeiDou system (BDS) was outlined by Jun Shen from the China Satellite Navigation Office in Beijing. According to his report, stable operation is being maintained, with accuracy better than 10 metres in some areas. Furthermore, new BDS satellites have an updated signal structure and more accurate clocks. The performance of the system is also gradually improving, and compatibility with other GNSSs is also better. He noted that China is currently working on a BDS SBAS augmentation for aviation, along with a ground-based augmentation system for centimetre-level accuracy.

SBAS too

Space-based Augmentation Systems (SBASs) such as EGNOS were the subject of their own session. The status of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) was presented by GSA EGNOS Operations and Maintenance Manager, Vincent Brison. According to Brison, EGNOS now offers complete European coverage for the safety of life (SoL) service. He also noted that EGNOS has maintained an accurate service for users during the recent GPS timing glitch of 26 January. “More so, new LPV-200 procedures at European airports are now running at one per week and increasing,” he concluded.

From the US side, according to Jason Burns of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the next satellite launch for the USA’s Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) had been delayed by the SpaceX Falcon 9 launcher failures. However, the FAA has a schedule for future releases of WAAS up to 2020.

Dr Takeyasu Sakai from Japan’s Electronic Navigation Research Institute in Tokyo talked about the status of the Japanese QZSS SBAS. He anticipates four satellite operations in 2018, and a seven-satellite configuration by 2023. QZSS SBAS will take over from other systems for sub-metre augmentation in 2020.

EGNOS in Africa?

An insight into the possible expansion of EGNOS over Africa was given by Julien Lapie from the Agency for Aerial Navigation Safety in Africa and Madagascar (ASECNA). “ASECNA is looking to facilitate the cooperative management of a single African sky of 16.1 million square miles,” he said. “This is important because 87 % of Africa is 250 kilometres from a main or regional airport.”

A roadmap for achieving this pan-African SBAS envisions early EGNOS-based services by 2019 or 2020, with provision of full services from 2023 onwards. Although there is a need for more information on ionospheric studies to characterise and optimise the EGNOS model over Africa, results are encouraging. Lapie said he hopes for an ASECNA-EU international agreement in the near future.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

For the GNSS community, the place to be in early March is Munich. From March 1 to 3, the Bavarian capital hosted its 13th Satellite Navigation Summit. The theme of this year’s showcase event was ‘GNSS – creating a Global Village’ and, of course, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) was there in this important year for Galileo.

Speaking at the Opening Plenary session of the 2016 Munich Satellite Navigation Summit, GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides noted that GNSS, and in particular Galileo, will play a vital and increasingly important part in the global digital infrastructure better known as the Internet of Things (IoT). To highlight just how important a role GNSS plays, according to the GSA’s latest GNSS Market Report, some 50 billion connected ‘smart objects’ will be on the market by 2020, with GNSS playing a vital enabling role.

“What can Galileo bring to the Internet of Things?” des Dorides asked. “Better accuracy and availability due to its signal strength in such difficult environments as in the city, as well as an authenticated open signal.”

During the roundtable session, des Dorides further outlined the GSA’s important role in promoting European GNSS technologies to enable the IoT. “Many devices will need to securely communicate their location,” he said. “Galileo Initial Services, which will launch later this year, will provide more secure positioning data, meaning the information is more trustworthy.”

He further highlighted the wide range of signal authentication and security that Galileo will soon be able to provide. “For mass market applications, the answer might be Open Signal authentication involving ‘light’ encryption of the data, but not the signal itself, while the Commercial Service will offer encryption of the signal and data,” he said. “At the highest level, the Public Regulated Service (PRS) will provide a very secure service for public authorities that covers the entire service provision chain including enabled receivers.”

Galileo Takes the Spotlight

Galileo was a main focus throughout the opening – and rightfully so. 2016 promises to be a year of great importance for European GNSS. Speaking during the opening, Pierre Delsaux from the European Commission’s DG GROWTH looked forward to the launch of Galileo Initial Services towards the end of year, in addition to six more satellites being launched into orbit, both of which will lead towards full coverage by 2020. Later in the debate, he noted that Initial Services would be achieved with the 12 satellites already in orbit. “The Initial Service provision should not depend on further successful launches in 2016,” he said.

ESA Director General Johann-Dietrich Woerner, confirmed that collaboration between ESA, the European Commission and the GSA was going well and this – together with Europe’s great heritage and culture as pioneers, explorers and scientists – made him very optimistic.

Meanwhile, US National Coordination Office for Space-based PNT Director Harold ‘Stormy’ Martin also wished every success to Galileo in 2016. “All global systems must work together to ensure interoperability and full access, and I look forward to a robust and reliable Galileo constellation,” he said.

Looking towards the launch of Initial Services, des Dorides rounded out the session by noting that he anticipated Initial Services to be available in October. “The Initial Service provision is important for market uptake and stimulating greater Galileo compatibility with receiver manufacturers in terms of both hardware and software,” he concluded. “I fully anticipate 100% compatibility by 2020.”

Participants were invited to learn more about the business potential that the European Space Programmes, Galileo and Copernicus, will offer at the upcoming edition of ‘European Space Solutions’ to be held in The Netherlands 30 May – 3 June 2016. To learn more and register: http://european-space-solutions.eu/

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) will highlight how EGNOS is benefiting airports across Europe during a presentation at the World ATM Congress in Madrid.

The numbers don’t lie: EGNOS is a success. The number of LPV procedures published in Europe has tripled over the past two years – now exceeding 250. Considering upcoming EASA regulatory mandates, this pace of uptake is only expected to continue. More so, over 40 ANSPs have already introduced EGNOS at their airports – and with the recently declared LPV200 service many more are moving towards introduction.

To highlight how EGNOS is benefiting airports across Europe, the GSA is hosting a free educational conference during the World ATM Congress, March 8 – 10 in Madrid. The conference, entitled Aviation Powered by #EGNOS, will take place on 8 March from 14:00 – 15:00 in the Honeywell Tower Theatre. The GSA will be joined by representatives form Eurocontrol and ESSP, among others, to discuss such topics as:

• EGNOS implementation status
• The EGNOS Safety of Life (SoL) service
• EU regulatory instruments encouraging PBN approach implementation
• Current EASA mandates
• Existing European support programmes
• First-hand accounts from recent LPV implementations in Croatia and Belgium

In addition to the conference, the GSA invites you to a special welcome drink and award ceremony on 8 March at 12:30 at the EGNOS booth (stand 242). The event will recognise the EWA signatures and LPV procedures published in 2015.

For more information and to confirm your attendance, please contact us at EGNOS-adoption@essp-sas.eu.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) says European rail is standing at the edge of a technological breakthrough, where GNSS will work in tandem with current technologies for a safer and more reliable European railway system.

Since the GSA began intensifying its work within the rail segment, interest in the role of GNSS within this important segment continues to grow – a fact made clear by the many stakeholders in attendance at a recent workshop hosted by the ERTMS on Satellite – Enabling Application Validation (ERSAT EAV) project. Attendees included representatives from the European Railway Agency, FS Italia, RFI, ANSF, Deutsche Bahn and Ansaldo, among others. Together with interested receiver manufacturers and a variety of system integrators, the representatives of the entire Rail/GNSS value chain were present at the meeting.

“Your attendance clearly confirms that, step-by-step, we are empowering railways with the possibility to benefit from European GNSS (EGNSS),” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides during his opening remarks at the workshop. “Thanks to such projects as ERSAT, I am convinced that European rail is standing at the edge of a technological breakthrough where GNSS will work in tandem with current technologies, resulting in a safer and more reliable railway signalling and positioning system.”

Also Read: EGNOS – Making European Rail more Efficient and Safer

The GSA firmly believes that rail transport – and in particular local and regional lines – has the potential to become one of the largest downstream markets for EGNSS in terms of volume, public utility and contribution to safety. According to the most recent edition of the GSA’s GNSS Market Report, among GNSS components and receivers for the rail segment, European companies have a market share of 38%. On the other hand, among system integrators, European companies enjoy a dominant 72% of the market, and also have significant exports to North America and Asia. The report further states that by 2020 the installed base of GNSS receivers in the segment is expected to surpass 150,000 units.  

“Outside of Europe, the demand for GNSS-based rail signalling systems is growing, and we are convinced that ERTMS, as a state-of-the-art signalling technology, would be better positioned within the global market if it was GNSS enabled in the future,” says des Dorides. “More so, outside of signalling, there are additional applications for GNSS, including, for example, Driver Advisory Systems, which can help rail become more energy and logistically efficient.”

Great Potential

“The potential of GNSS as an innovative solution capable of decreasing costs for ERTMS deployment and operation has been discussed for some time,” explains des Dorides. “Today, the key instruments for turning these discussions into reality are in place, including such Horizon 2020 projects as ERSAT, and aim to provide a final demonstration of the applicability of GNSS to low density lines.”

In parallel to the ERTMS work, the GSA has also supported the Shift2Rail initiative – the first European Joint Undertaking for railways – since its early beginnings.  The initiative is set to launch projects geared towards accelerating the integration of such technologies as GNSS into rail solutions next year.

The belief in the essential role of EGNSS within European rail is one widely shared by many of the workshop’s speakers and attendees. For example, European Railway Agency Executive Director Josef Doppelbauer confirmed that the long-term evolution of ERTMS will involve EGNSS technology not only in signalling, but in driver advisory systems and logistics-related applications too. Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI) Head of Train Control and Command System and Telecommunication Fabio Senesi, speaking as an infrastructure manager, stressed the need to reduce investment and operating expenses while maintaining safety – and that GNSS is well-positioned to deliver both. In addition, Trenitalia Technical Director Marco Caposciutti, who has been involved in the preliminary integration of ERSAT GNSS-based train positioning on a Sardinian railway line, reports that initial results are positive.

In other words, from the GSA to rail infrastructure managers and operators the consensus is clear: GNSS – and in particular Galileo and EGNOS – is the technology of the future, set to deliver safe signalling at a lower costs for Europe’s rail network. “We are confident that both in the GSA-supported Horizon 2020 projects and in Shift2Rail, the rail industry will manage to overcome the last technological barriers for GNSS adoption, paving the way for more cost efficient train control solutions that will ultimately bring benefits to European citizens,” concludes des Dorides. 

About ERSAT EAV

The Horizon 2020 funded ERSAT EAV project aims to verify the suitability of such EGNSS services as EGNOS and Galileo for the rail sector – and in particular within regional lines. The project is defining and developing the safe localisation of train positioning based on satellite technology and ensuring such a system is in harmony with the European ERTM standard. In the current phase, it is measuring and evaluating gaps between technology and railway requirements, performing measurements in real operating conditions, building models, using simulation for analysis purposes and validating the solution using a pilot line as a reference for the future standardisation and certification process.  

The ERSAT EAV project is a key part of the strategy to prioritise the uptake of EGNSS within the rail sector and fostering innovation within the European space and rail industry. The project plays a critical role in demonstrating the enormous opportunity that EGNSS offers to the ERTMS, especially as it applies to local and regional lines, which currently represent nearly 50% of Europe’s total railway length.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) says European rail is standing at the edge of a technological breakthrough, where GNSS will work in tandem with current technologies for a safer and more reliable European railway system.

Since the GSA began intensifying its work within the rail segment, interest in the role of GNSS within this important segment continues to grow – a fact made clear by the many stakeholders in attendance at a recent workshop hosted by the ERTMS on Satellite – Enabling Application Validation (ERSAT EAV) project. Attendees included representatives from the European Railway Agency, FS Italia, RFI, ANSF, Deutsche Bahn and Ansaldo, among others. Together with interested receiver manufacturers and a variety of system integrators, the representatives of the entire Rail/GNSS value chain were present at the meeting.

“Your attendance clearly confirms that, step-by-step, we are empowering railways with the possibility to benefit from European GNSS (EGNSS),” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides during his opening remarks at the workshop. “Thanks to such projects as ERSAT, I am convinced that European rail is standing at the edge of a technological breakthrough where GNSS will work in tandem with current technologies, resulting in a safer and more reliable railway signalling and positioning system.”

Also Read: EGNOS – Making European Rail more Efficient and Safer

The GSA firmly believes that rail transport – and in particular local and regional lines – has the potential to become one of the largest downstream markets for EGNSS in terms of volume, public utility and contribution to safety. According to the most recent edition of the GSA’s GNSS Market Report, among GNSS components and receivers for the rail segment, European companies have a market share of 38%. On the other hand, among system integrators, European companies enjoy a dominant 72% of the market, and also have significant exports to North America and Asia. The report further states that by 2020 the installed base of GNSS receivers in the segment is expected to surpass 150,000 units.  

“Outside of Europe, the demand for GNSS-based rail signalling systems is growing, and we are convinced that ERTMS, as a state-of-the-art signalling technology, would be better positioned within the global market if it was GNSS enabled in the future,” says des Dorides. “More so, outside of signalling, there are additional applications for GNSS, including, for example, Driver Advisory Systems, which can help rail become more energy and logistically efficient.”

Great Potential

“The potential of GNSS as an innovative solution capable of decreasing costs for ERTMS deployment and operation has been discussed for some time,” explains des Dorides. “Today, the key instruments for turning these discussions into reality are in place, including such Horizon 2020 projects as ERSAT, and aim to provide a final demonstration of the applicability of GNSS to low density lines.”

In parallel to the ERTMS work, the GSA has also supported the Shift2Rail initiative – the first European Joint Undertaking for railways – since its early beginnings.  The initiative is set to launch projects geared towards accelerating the integration of such technologies as GNSS into rail solutions next year.

The belief in the essential role of EGNSS within European rail is one widely shared by many of the workshop’s speakers and attendees. For example, European Railway Agency Executive Director Josef Doppelbauer confirmed that the long-term evolution of ERTMS will involve EGNSS technology not only in signalling, but in driver advisory systems and logistics-related applications too. Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI) Head of Train Control and Command System and Telecommunication Fabio Senesi, speaking as an infrastructure manager, stressed the need to reduce investment and operating expenses while maintaining safety – and that GNSS is well-positioned to deliver both. In addition, Trenitalia Technical Director Marco Caposciutti, who has been involved in the preliminary integration of ERSAT GNSS-based train positioning on a Sardinian railway line, reports that initial results are positive.

In other words, from the GSA to rail infrastructure managers and operators the consensus is clear: GNSS – and in particular Galileo and EGNOS – is the technology of the future, set to deliver safe signalling at a lower costs for Europe’s rail network. “We are confident that both in the GSA-supported Horizon 2020 projects and in Shift2Rail, the rail industry will manage to overcome the last technological barriers for GNSS adoption, paving the way for more cost efficient train control solutions that will ultimately bring benefits to European citizens,” concludes des Dorides. 

About ERSAT EAV

The Horizon 2020 funded ERSAT EAV project aims to verify the suitability of such EGNSS services as EGNOS and Galileo for the rail sector – and in particular within regional lines. The project is defining and developing the safe localisation of train positioning based on satellite technology and ensuring such a system is in harmony with the European ERTM standard. In the current phase, it is measuring and evaluating gaps between technology and railway requirements, performing measurements in real operating conditions, building models, using simulation for analysis purposes and validating the solution using a pilot line as a reference for the future standardisation and certification process.  

The ERSAT EAV project is a key part of the strategy to prioritise the uptake of EGNSS within the rail sector and fostering innovation within the European space and rail industry. The project plays a critical role in demonstrating the enormous opportunity that EGNSS offers to the ERTMS, especially as it applies to local and regional lines, which currently represent nearly 50% of Europe’s total railway length.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) releases its “GNSS Adoption for Road User Charging in Europe” report, highlighting the benefits of European GNSS (EGNSS) in RUC, providing an in-depth look at how it works and sharing success stories of its implementation across the EU.

Thanks to its flexibility, EGNSS is becoming the preferred solution for electronic toll collection in the EU. With EGNSS-based tolling, users can be charged based on different criteria, such as type of road and vehicle, time, distance and level of emissions – all of which can be easily adapted to the rapidly evolving needs of the sector and in a cost-effective manner. Other benefits of GNSS technology in complex networks include low transaction costs, a minimal environmental impact and the possibility of generating additional revenue from the provision of value added services.

To highlight the benefits of EGNSS in Road User Charging (RUC) – along with providing an in-depth look at how it works and at the many success stories of its implementation in various EU Member States – the GSA has published a new booklet on the topic. GNSS Adoption for Road User Charging in Europe provides readers with an accessible, visually-appealing tour through the various aspects of GNSS as they apply to RUC, with a specific focus on the role of EGNOS and Galileo. 
According to the booklet, EGNSS provides substantial advantages over other systems. For example, the Galileo programme offers improved location accuracy and reduced positioning time as a result of its being part of a multi-constellation scheme. In addition, Galileo's unique authentication and data encryption services increase signal reliability and thwarts attempts to spoof the signal.

The booklet is free of charge and can be downloaded here.

Covering More European Roads

While the RUC booklet looks to the future of GNSS in Road User Charging, Europe is already reaping the benefits of the Galileo and EGNOS programmes. As highlighted in the publication, three European Member States (Germany, Hungary and Slovakia) are already utilising EGNSS for electronic tolling of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV), while Belgium’s system is about to start operations in April 2016. More so, other countries (e.g. Bulgaria) are currently evaluating how to modernise their road taxation schemes – and EGNSS seems to be the most viable solution.

As a result of all these programmes, by April 2016, 58% of all the currently EETS-compliant tolled kilometres in the EU 28 will utilise a GNSS scheme.

2016 Road User Charging Conference

The GSA will officially launch GNSS Adoption for Road User Charging in Europe at the 2016 Road User Charging Conference, taking place in Brussels on 2 – 3 March. Here, the GSA will join leading European and international experts and authorities from the field of RUC to share global perspectives and highlight the importance of an international conversation on RUC applications and challenges. The GSA will be hosting a session on EGNSS Based Tolling Services starting at 10:50 am on 3 March.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The STARS (Satellite Technology for Advanced Railway Signalling) project kicks off on Tuesday, 23 February, in Prague. The event gathered around 40 participants, including project consortium members, universities, stakeholders from the rail sector as well as from the aerospace industry.

Philippe Citroën, UNIFE Director General, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of the program for the rail satellite positioning research: “STARS needs to be seen as the lighthouse project of the SHIFT2RAIL for which it will bring the key inputs. “
 
Carlo des Dorides,  the European Global Navigation Satellite Systems Agency (GSA) Executive Director, stressed the important role of the project: “the GSA is dedicated to make sure ensuring that the rail segment sector is taking on board the added value of the European GNSS technology and STARS is the project that will provide this essential input, enabling the future European Train Control System to benefit from the European satellite positioning”

After a first session open for all stakeholders, the consortium members met to officially start the preparation of this major project.
 
The STARS project, funded by the European GNSS Agency under the Horizon 2020 program, aims to bridge the gap between ERTMS needs for safety critical applications and GNSS services through a characterisation of the railway environment and of the GNSS performance assessment in that environment. The key objectives of the project are to develop a universal approach to predict the achievable GNSS performances for railway applications and to quantify the economic benefits through reduction of cost, which will increase market appeal of ERTMS.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The STARS (Satellite Technology for Advanced Railway Signalling) project kicked off on Tuesday, 23 February, in Prague. The event gathered around 40 participants, including project consortium members, universities, stakeholders from the rail sector as well as from the aerospace industry.

Philippe Citroën, UNIFE Director General, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of the program for the rail satellite positioning research: “STARS needs to be seen as the lighthouse project of the SHIFT2RAIL for which it will bring the key inputs. “
 
Carlo des Dorides,  the European Global Navigation Satellite Systems Agency (GSA) Executive Director, stressed the important role of the project: “the GSA is dedicated to make sure ensuring that the rail segment sector is taking on board the added value of the European GNSS technology and STARS is the project that will provide this essential input, enabling the future European Train Control System to benefit from the European satellite positioning”

After a first session open for all stakeholders, the consortium members met to officially start the preparation of this major project.
 
The STARS project, funded by the European GNSS Agency under the Horizon 2020 program, aims to bridge the gap between ERTMS needs for safety critical applications and GNSS services through a characterisation of the railway environment and of the GNSS performance assessment in that environment. The key objectives of the project are to develop a universal approach to predict the achievable GNSS performances for railway applications and to quantify the economic benefits through reduction of cost, which will increase market appeal of ERTMS.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces that registration is now open for the 2016 e-KnoT Professional Training Programme – an opportunity for industry, research centres and institutions to take part in free-of-charge tutorials led by recognised GNSS experts.

Registration is now open for the 2016 e-KnoT Professional Training Programme, an opportunity for industry, research centres and institutions to expand their GNSS knowledge base and develop new skills via specialised courses designed and delivered by leading GNSS experts.

The programme, which is supported by the European Commission and the GSA through Horizon 2020, aims to provide direct benefits to industry by implementing measures to strengthen GNSS knowledge and foster cooperation between academia, research and business to boost innovation.

The e-KnoT professional training programme instructors include GNSS experts from the Ecole Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (France), Politecnico di Torino (Italy), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (Spain), and Astri Polska (Poland).

The 2016 training programme schedule is as follows:

• T1: Fundamentals of GNSS, 30 March - 01 April 2016, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
• T2: GNSS Receiver Signal Processing, 23-25 May 2016, Astri Polska, Warsaw, Poland
• T3: GNSS Positioning: Theory and Practice, 07-09 June 2016, GSA Headquarters, Prague, Czech Republic
• T4: Vulnerabilities of GNSS, 18-20 October 2016, Politecnico di Torino, Torino, Italy
• T5: Integrity Monitoring for Safety-Critical Applications, 22-24 November 2016, Ecole Nationale de l’Aviation Civile, Toulouse, France

An In-depth Curriculum

In Fundamentals of GNSS, participants will receive a beginners’ guide to GNSS. Current and future systems, the concepts behind global positioning, how a signal is used to determine location by a receiver – and more – will all be discussed. As the course progresses, discussions will cover the sources of GNSS errors and available augmentation systems for service enhancement, along with a talk on the future of GNSS and the European Galileo system.

In GNSS Receiver Signal Processing, intermediate level students with some knowledge of signal processing will delve deeper into the topic. The course starts by looking at the specific case of GPS L1 C/A and its basic processing in a GPS receiver, before investigating the effect of multipath and interference on such processing. The second part of the course introduces the numerous innovations present in the new GNSS signals and their implications on the structure and performance of GNSS receiver signal processing.

GNSS Positioning: Theory and Practice is an entry level course that examines the study of the concepts and techniques used in GNSS positioning. The theoretical foundations are presented and the processing algorithms are implemented through guided exercises performed right in the laboratory. The practical sessions will consist of programmes specifically about implementing the different processing modules.

In the expert level Vulnerabilities of GNSS course, participants will look at the fundamentals relating to GNSS signal processing and GNSS position and time computation. The course will also provide a description of the origin, effect and means of mitigating various sources of vulnerabilities to a GNSS receiver.

Finally, in Integrity Monitoring for Safety-Critical Applications, intermediate level participants will learn about the Integrity Monitoring techniques used in civil aviation and the latest advances in the field.

Register Today

Registration is free-of-charge, but places are limited and are filling up quickly. The registration deadline is one month before the start of each tutorial, and confirmation of registration will be required three weeks before the tutorials begins.

You can submit your application here.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) is organising a workshop on the benefits and key features that European Global Navigation Satellite Systems (E-GNSS) offer geospatial users during the annual Geospatial World Forum.

The GSA will host an E-GNSS workshop during this year’s Geospatial World Forum in Rotterdam. The workshop, entitled E-GNSS: Benefits and Key Features for Geospatial Users, will take place during the Impact of Geospatial Information on Society and Economy session, scheduled for 26 May 2016 from 13:30 – 18:00.

Topics include:

• Status updates on the E-GNSS programme timeline, Galileo frequencies, services description, and more
• Synergies between GNSS and remote sensing, in particular between Galileo and the Copernicus programme
• E-GNSS key features and benefits for geospatial applications, with a focus on such high-accuracy applications as the Galileo Open Service and the Galileo Commercial Service, and user support via the Galileo and EGNOS service centres
• R&D funding opportunities for industry and receiver manufacturers, including the Horizon 2020 and Fundamental Elements programmes
• Discussion and brainstorming on Galileo adoption and advantages of its signal characteristics

The workshop aims to highlight the status, services and key features of E-GNSS as it applies to the geospatial community. The objective is to stimulate dialogue on the benefits of Galileo in geospatial applications and the advantages of Galileo adoption at the equipment level. Additionally, the ‘big picture’ role of GNSS, in particular synergies between Galileo and Copernicus, will also be highlighted.

More information about the Geospatial World Forum is available here.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) is organising a workshop on the benefits and key features that European Global Navigation Satellite Systems (E-GNSS) offer geospatial users during the annual Geospatial World Forum.

The GSA will host an E-GNSS workshop during this year’s Geospatial World Forum in Rotterdam. The workshop, entitled E-GNSS: Benefits and Key Features for Geospatial Users, will take place during the Impact of Geospatial Information on Society and Economy session, scheduled for 24 May 2016 from 13:30 – 18:00.

Topics include:

• Status updates on the E-GNSS programme timeline, Galileo frequencies, services description, and more
• Synergies between GNSS and remote sensing, in particular between Galileo and the Copernicus programme
• E-GNSS key features and benefits for geospatial applications, with a focus on such high-accuracy applications as the Galileo Open Service and the Galileo Commercial Service, and user support via the Galileo and EGNOS service centres
• R&D funding opportunities for industry and receiver manufacturers, including the Horizon 2020 and Fundamental Elements programmes
• Discussion and brainstorming on Galileo adoption and advantages of its signal characteristics

The workshop aims to highlight the status, services and key features of E-GNSS as it applies to the geospatial community. The objective is to stimulate dialogue on the benefits of Galileo in geospatial applications and the advantages of Galileo adoption at the equipment level. Additionally, the ‘big picture’ role of GNSS, in particular synergies between Galileo and Copernicus, will also be highlighted.

More information about the Geospatial World Forum is available here.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) is organising a workshop on the benefits and key features that European Global Navigation Satellite Systems (E-GNSS) offer geospatial users during the annual Geospatial World Forum.

The GSA will host an E-GNSS workshop during this year’s Geospatial World Forum in Rotterdam. The workshop, entitled E-GNSS: Benefits and Key Features for Geospatial Users, will take place during the Impact of Geospatial Information on Society and Economy session, scheduled for 24 May 2016 from 13:30 – 18:00.

Topics include:

• Status updates on the E-GNSS programme timeline, Galileo frequencies, services description, and more
• Synergies between GNSS and remote sensing, in particular between Galileo and the Copernicus programme
• E-GNSS key features and benefits for geospatial applications, with a focus on such high-accuracy applications as the Galileo Open Service and the Galileo Commercial Service, and user support via the Galileo and EGNOS service centres
• R&D funding opportunities for industry and receiver manufacturers, including the Horizon 2020 and Fundamental Elements programmes
• Discussion and brainstorming on Galileo adoption and advantages of its signal characteristics

The workshop aims to highlight the status, services and key features of E-GNSS as it applies to the geospatial community. The objective is to stimulate dialogue on the benefits of Galileo in geospatial applications and the advantages of Galileo adoption at the equipment level. Additionally, the ‘big picture’ role of GNSS, in particular synergies between Galileo and Copernicus, will also be highlighted.

More information about the Geospatial World Forum is available here.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

In an effort to assess the development of Europe’s downstream space market, as well as identify public and private uses for space-based applications and services, the European Parliament recently conducted an in-depth study that included interviews with over 30 policy makers, public authorities, and industry representatives – along with the GSA.

According to the report, entitled Space Market Update in Europe, the EU has already allocated EUR 6 billion towards the Galileo and Copernicus programmes, with an additional EUR 11 billion earmarked for 2014-2020. The report suggests that key rationales for EU intervention in the space sector include the development of an independent satellite infrastructure, the benefits of gathering knowledge and resources from ESA and Member States, and the potential contributions of satellite-based services and applications to Europe’s 2020 objectives.

In regard to market-specific findings, the study found rapid growth in the downstream GNSS market, with great potential for future growth. The report specifically recognises the GSA’s work in achieving this. “After seven years of combined activities of the European Commission and the GSA, the penetration rate of Galileo in all GNSS equipment models sold worldwide stems at 40%,” states the report. “This shows that industry is investing significantly in developing Galileo solutions well ahead of the programme’s full availability.”

The report also finds that demand originates primarily from the private sector. For example, the signal currently in use is provided by the US Global Positioning System (GPS). However, the report makes the case that the added Galileo signal, which will launch initial services this year, will greatly improve both service precision and reliability.

Overcoming Barriers

That being said, the study’s market-specific findings for the European downstream space market raised numerous challenges. For example, the report describes a highly-fragmented market comprised of limited large players and many specialised micro, small and medium enterprises working primarily with local suppliers. The most dominant players in the market are US IT giants like Google, who have handled, processed and distributed Earth Observation (EO) data to large audiences of users.

The report also identified several barriers to the achievement of the Europe 2020 objectives, including policy, market fragmentation, governance issues, technical concerns and a lack of skills/awareness. With regard to policy, for example, a focus on institutional and scientific needs leaves the commercial sector deficient, and a lack of an appropriate space industry policy means an absence of a proper regulatory framework for the market.

Also Read: Towards a More Competitive Space Policy

Market fragmentation, according to the study, has been caused by an excess of stakeholders and the implementation of several different space related policies. In addition, funding of European R&D is low, at less than half of what the US provides (albeit with Europe representing a smaller market).

More so, governance of EU space programmes is still unclear, with the roles of the public and private sector remaining somewhat vague. Conflicting policies and issues of EU Member States have also played a role in governance concerns. On the other hand, such technical issues as delays in the Galileo launch schedule and in overall system and service availability were found to have negatively affected public perception of the programme.

In addition, some EU official documents suggest that Europe faces a challenge in securing sufficient human resources to support the EU's space industry. It is important to note, however, that the present study's interviews did not consider skill shortages as a major constraint.

The GSA Perspective

In order to promote the market uptake of the EU’s space programmes, the report suggests that the EU needs to provide stronger assistance to market development, supporting enterprise-appropriate timing, funding to non-academic, non-institutional players and increased commercialisation.

Additional recommendations include developing an EU space industrial policy, raising market awareness, avoiding further programme delays, providing equal access to EO data across EU member states, improving regulations and expanding dissemination activities.

All of these recommendations reinforces the key messages and findings of the GSA, including those of its own GNSS Market Report. In particular, the GSA is in agreement with the study's assertions that the GNSS downstream market has grown significantly, and that it is poised for further growth.

“Only a strong market uptake of European satellite-based services and applications can guarantee a return on investment sufficient to support Europe’s objectives,” says GSA Chief Executive Carlo des Dorides. “Clearly, these findings validate our commitment to market development and the need that our many successful activities not only be continued, but potentially intensified, to address the issues of market fragmentation and immaturity.”

Furthermore, the GSA strongly agrees that additional infrastructure-related programme delays must be avoided to ensure proper market uptake for Galileo. As a result of previous delays, some actions have not yet been taken with regard to targeting certain types of users and bolstering Galileo’s market adoption. “Achieving a fully-functioning infrastructure will be key to achieving proper market uptake, as it provides the ability to fully showcase Galileo’s capabilities to stakeholders,” says des Dorides. “Certainly, a stakeholder cannot assess innovation solely on future expectations.”

As to the report's suggestion that EU support for the downstream sector has been insufficient, it points to its own focus on user needs as a solution. The Agency has long sought to establish direct relationships through such means as the GNSS Service Centre Nucleus, periodic EGNOS surveys and the European GNSS User Consultation Group, to name only a few examples.

“This isn’t just talk,” notes des Dorides. “The GSA has already achieved relevant results in terms of E-GNSS market adoption, well ahead of Galileo readiness.” For example, the top 14 global chipset and receiver manufacturers all are currently working with the GSA to include Galileo in their products, and EGNOS is integrated in more than 70% of off-the-shelf receivers. More so, 86 FP7 projects have been effectively managed, and projects funded by the Horizon 2020 framework programme for R&D and innovation and new the Fundamental Elements funding mechanism are sure to add to this list of successes. In addition, the GSA has seen results in the most important market segments, with strong steps forward being taken in aviation, road tolling and rail.

Next Steps

In light of the European Parliament’s findings, and in combination with its experience and knowledge, the GSA is now ready to discuss the means to increasing market development with EU stakeholders.

“Increasing the appeal of R&D programmes to private companies, intensifying relationships with other institutions, developing an integrated space policy, reviewing existing EU regulations and increasing dissemination activities are all potentially valuable methods of increasing uptake,” says des Dorides. “By combining these solutions with previous and current GSA activities, the EU can build a strong private sector, drive demand for commercial services in Europe and become a major player on a global scale.”

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces that the EGNOS time service remained stable and properly synchronised to UTC time during a recent GPS timing anomaly on January 26th.

On the 26th of January, users of United States GPS system experienced timing issues after a number of GPS satellites broadcast incorrect UTC correction parameters. According to the US Air Force, the coordinated universal time message that was transmitted was off by 13 microseconds. During this anomaly EGNOS, which serves as an augmentation to the GPS, remained stable and properly synchronised to UTC.

European EGNOS has been providing its own time service since March 2011. The system generates its own time scale known as ENT (EGNOS Network Time), which obtains its information from atomic clocks across RIMS sites. EGNOS time is compared with UTC through the UTC time realisation of l’Observatoire de Paris, and the difference is transmitted in the EGNOS navigation message (MT12). EGNOS time information can be received via broadcast GEO satellite signals or via the EDAS service, which allows users to access EGNOS data online in real time.

EGNOS offers such a protection of their GNSS timing service to all SBAS users, across all application domains, including aviation, rail, maritime, surveying, agriculture, location based services and more.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces that registration for the fourth edition of the European Space Solutions conference is now open. Hosted by the 2016 Dutch Council Presidency  and co-organised with the European Commission, the conference takes place in The Hague from 30 May to 3 June 2016.

How can we use space to tackle things like energy, health care, mobility and the environment? Can space-based applications help agricultural production? What are innovative, effective and efficient space solutions for today’s most pressing issues?

Get the answer to these questions and more by registering for the fourth edition of the European Space Solutions conference! With the theme of ‘Bringing Space to Earth’, the conference will showcase how innovative, space-based solutions are the answer to some of Europe’s toughest challenges while fuelling new business-building innovation

Hosted by the 2016 Dutch Presidency of the European Council, the conference takes place in The Hague from 30 May to 3 June 2016.

Sector Specific Sessions

The conference agenda is geared towards European businesses, industry and SMEs and is packed with discussions and talks by European policy makers and global leaders in industry, research and academia. In addition to the opening address, various policy plenaries and an array of side events, the agenda includes six focus sessions set to offer attendees tailored insight on how their business can leverage Europe’s space infrastructure for growth. View the full agenda here.

Each focus session tackles a specific space-based service or technology solution, showing how Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus, as well as the EU’s Horizon 2020 research programme, are creating a range of opportunities for European businesses to build applications and services from.

For example: In the Agriculture & Food session, you’ll see real-world examples of European businesses helping farmers via cutting-edge space applications that increase efficiency and lower costs.

• In Climate Change & Environment, explore the opportunities available at the crossroads of space-based observations and traditional ground-based measurements.
• River Deltas of the World delves more specifically into opportunities for space applications and best practices in delta environments.
• In the Health & Safety sessions, hear about how European companies are using space innovations to meet the growing needs of an ageing population.
• In a session area that can help everyone in daily life, Smart Mobility will feature new, state-of-the-art solutions for road traffic management, among other things.
• The Energy session highlights the latest trends and challenges in environmental, sociological, and economic matters.

Register Today

This year’s conference also features a showcase of the latest space-based applications in Earth Observation, European space research, and satellite navigation. Through these showcases, you’ll gain unique insights into game changing developments across multiple industries, and an inside look at what the future holds. In addition, the popular European Space Expo will be held in parallel to the conference, touching down in The Hague’s Old City Centre.

The conference is a chance to learn and network with entrepreneurs, industry leaders, space stakeholders, investors, researchers, and policy makers from across Europe and beyond.

Register Today!

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces that registration for the fourth edition of the European Space Solutions conference is now open. Hosted by the 2016 Dutch Council Presidency  and co-organised with the European Commission, the conference takes place in The Hague from 30 May to 3 June 2016.

How can we use space to tackle things like energy, health care, mobility and the environment? Can space-based applications help agricultural production? What are innovative, effective and efficient space solutions for today’s most pressing issues?

Get the answer to these questions and more by registering for the fourth edition of the European Space Solutions conference! With the theme of ‘Bringing Space to Earth’, the conference will showcase how innovative, space-based solutions are the answer to some of Europe’s toughest challenges while fuelling new business-building innovation

Hosted by the 2016 Dutch Presidency of the European Council, the conference takes place in The Hague from 30 May to 3 June 2016.

Sector Specific Sessions

The conference agenda is geared towards European businesses, industry and SMEs and is packed with discussions and talks by European policy makers and global leaders in industry, research and academia. In addition to the opening address, various policy plenaries and an array of side events, the agenda includes six focus sessions set to offer attendees tailored insight on how their business can leverage Europe’s space infrastructure for growth. View the full agenda here.

Each focus session tackles a specific space-based service or technology solution, showing how Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus, as well as the EU’s Horizon 2020 research programme, are creating a range of opportunities for European businesses to build applications and services from.

For example: In the Agriculture & Food session, you’ll see real-world examples of European businesses helping farmers via cutting-edge space applications that increase efficiency and lower costs.

• In Climate Change & Environment, explore the opportunities available at the crossroads of space-based observations and traditional ground-based measurements.
• River Deltas of the World delves more specifically into opportunities for space applications and best practices in delta environments.
• In the Health & Safety sessions, hear about how European companies are using space innovations to meet the growing needs of an ageing population.
• In a session area that can help everyone in daily life, Smart Mobility will feature new, state-of-the-art solutions for road traffic management, among other things.
• The Energy session highlights the latest trends and challenges in environmental, sociological, and economic matters.

Register Today

This year’s conference also features a showcase of the latest space-based applications in Earth Observation, European space research, and satellite navigation. Through these showcases, you’ll gain unique insights into game changing developments across multiple industries, and an inside look at what the future holds. In addition, the popular European Space Expo will be held in parallel to the conference, touching down in The Hague’s Old City Centre.

The conference is a chance to learn and network with entrepreneurs, industry leaders, space stakeholders, investors, researchers, and policy makers from across Europe and beyond.

Register Today!

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces that registration for the fourth edition of the European Space Solutions conference is now open. Hosted by the 2016 Dutch Council Presidency  and co-organised with the European Commission, the conference takes place in The Hague from 30 May to 3 June 2016.

How can we use space to tackle things like energy, health care, mobility and the environment? Can space-based applications help agricultural production? What are innovative, effective and efficient space solutions for today’s most pressing issues?

Get the answer to these questions and more by registering for the fourth edition of the European Space Solutions conference! With the theme of ‘Bringing Space to Earth’, the conference will showcase how innovative, space-based solutions are the answer to some of Europe’s toughest challenges while fuelling new business-building innovation

Hosted by the 2016 Dutch Presidency of the European Council, the conference takes place in The Hague from 30 May to 3 June 2016.

Sector Specific Sessions

The conference agenda is geared towards European businesses, industry and SMEs and is packed with discussions and talks by European policy makers and global leaders in industry, research and academia. In addition to the opening address, various policy plenaries and an array of side events, the agenda includes six focus sessions set to offer attendees tailored insight on how their business can leverage Europe’s space infrastructure for growth. View the full agenda here.

Each focus session tackles a specific space-based service or technology solution, showing how Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus, as well as the EU’s Horizon 2020 research programme, are creating a range of opportunities for European businesses to build applications and services from.

For example: In the Agriculture & Food session, you’ll see real-world examples of European businesses helping farmers via cutting-edge space applications that increase efficiency and lower costs.

• In Climate Change & Environment, explore the opportunities available at the crossroads of space-based observations and traditional ground-based measurements.
• River Deltas of the World delves more specifically into opportunities for space applications and best practices in delta environments.
• In the Health & Safety sessions, hear about how European companies are using space innovations to meet the growing needs of an ageing population.
• In a session area that can help everyone in daily life, Smart Mobility will feature new, state-of-the-art solutions for road traffic management, among other things.
• The Energy session highlights the latest trends and challenges in environmental, sociological, and economic matters.

Register Today

This year’s conference also features a showcase of the latest space-based applications in Earth Observation, European space research, and satellite navigation. Through these showcases, you’ll gain unique insights into game changing developments across multiple industries, and an inside look at what the future holds. In addition, the popular European Space Expo will be held in parallel to the conference, touching down in The Hague’s Old City Centre.

The conference is a chance to learn and network with entrepreneurs, industry leaders, space stakeholders, investors, researchers, and policy makers from across Europe and beyond. Register Today!

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

European GNSS Agency (GSA) Executive Director Carlo des Dorides and European Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation Carlos Moedas met in Brussels to discuss the potential of GNSS technology and the role that Galileo will play as an innovation enabler for economic growth.

When GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides and European Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation Carlos Moedas met to discuss the potential of GNSS technology, the conversation quickly turned to Galileo. With Initial Services set to launch this year, the two emphasised how Galileo will play an important role as an innovation enabler and, as such, a driver of economic growth.  

The conversation included an overview of the many successes already achieved by EGNOS, which the Commissioner said represents a good success story for Europe. In particular, the GSA focused on how it plans to leverage its experience with overseeing the EGNOS service provision and the development of the downstream market as it takes on a similar role with Galileo.

Naturally, the conversation also included an in-depth discussion on R&D and related funding. Here the GSA highlighted the Horizon 2020 and Fundamental Elements funding schemes. According to des Dorides, the two programmes are complimentary and support innovation at different levels of the value chain.

For example, Fundamental Elements supports the overall strategy of market uptake by providing funding for the development of chipset and receivers. On this point, des Dorides and Moedas agreed that Galileo Initial Services was key to triggering investments by chipset and receiver manufacturers and, in general, for growing public awareness of the programme.

Fundamental Elements Info Day: register now !

Horizon 2020, on the other hand, looks towards the downstream market. The programme has already awarded nearly EUR 25M in funding to 13 projects covering transport, surveying, location-based services, agriculture and emergency services, among others.

GNSS Innovation Catalyst

However, des Dorides stressed that if Europe intends to maintain its position as a global leader in space technology, more needs to be done to foster E-GNSS innovation. In this sense, he sees the GSA as being well-positioned to act as the catalyst at the centre of the EU’s GNSS innovation network, working across and with EU institutions, market segments and Member States. In fact, the GSA is already doing this with its Funding Guide, which monitors the available funding mechanisms for GNSS applications .

        Also Read: Towards a More Competitive Space Policy

Yet des Dorides pointed out that this is just one solution. “We must also encourage venture capital,” said des Dorides. “With Galileo launching initial services this year, we have the public infrastructure, but now we need the applications and services that capitalise on this infrastructure. This is where venture capital could be a solution.”

Fast Track Forward

Other concepts discussed included the use of incubators, centres of excellence and Fast Track to Innovation programmes. As to the latter, des Dorides noted that an ongoing challenge for EU funded projects is that they tend to take between three and four years to reach market. On the other hand, innovation happening elsewhere in the world moves much faster, leaving European-supported projects at risk of already being obsolete by the time they reach market.

A solution to this, which already exists as a pilot programme within Horizon 2020, is adopting a Fast Track to Innovation approach. The pilot programme supports innovative projects from the demonstration stage to market uptake, including such stages as piloting, test-beds, systems validation in real-world conditions, validation of business models, pre-normative research, and standard-setting.

Partners in Innovation

Overall, the des Dorides and Commissioner Moedas agreed to continue to work together to strengthen European support for GNSS R&D and innovation. “R&D and innovation are an essential element of Galileo’s success and I welcome an increased exchange and partnership with DG RTD,” said des Dorides. The two plan to continue the conversation in the near future at GSA headquarters in Prague.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

European GNSS Agency (GSA) Executive Director Carlo des Dorides and European Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation Carlos Moedas met in Brussels to discuss the potential of GNSS technology and the role that Galileo will play as an innovation enabler for economic growth.

When GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides and European Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation Carlos Moedas met to discuss the potential of GNSS technology, the conversation quickly turned to Galileo. With Initial Services set to launch this year, the two emphasised how Galileo will play an important role as an innovation enabler and, as such, a driver of economic growth.  

The conversation included an overview of the many successes already achieved by EGNOS, which the Commissioner said represents a good success story for Europe. In particular, the GSA focused on how it plans to leverage its experience with overseeing the EGNOS service provision and the development of the downstream market as it takes on a similar role with Galileo.

Naturally, the conversation also included an in-depth discussion on R&D and related funding. Here the GSA highlighted the Horizon 2020 and Fundamental Elements funding schemes. According to des Dorides, the two programmes are complimentary and support innovation at different levels of the value chain.

For example, Fundamental Elements supports the overall strategy of market uptake by providing funding for the development of chipset and receivers. On this point, des Dorides and Moedas agreed that Galileo Initial Services was key to triggering investments by chipset and receiver manufacturers and, in general, for growing public awareness of the programme.

Fundamental Elements Info Day: register now !

Horizon 2020, on the other hand, looks towards the downstream market. The programme has already awarded nearly EUR 25M in funding to 13 projects covering transport, surveying, location-based services, agriculture and emergency services, among others.

GNSS Innovation Catalyst

However, des Dorides stressed that if Europe intends to maintain its position as a global leader in space technology, more needs to be done to foster E-GNSS innovation. In this sense, he sees the GSA as being well-positioned to act as the catalyst at the centre of the EU’s GNSS innovation network, working across and with EU institutions, market segments and Member States. In fact, the GSA is already doing this with its Funding Guide, which monitors the available funding mechanisms for GNSS applications.

        Also Read: Towards a More Competitive Space Policy

Yet des Dorides pointed out that this is just one solution. “We must also encourage venture capital,” said des Dorides. “With Galileo launching initial services this year, we have the public infrastructure, but now we need the applications and services that capitalise on this infrastructure. This is where venture capital could be a solution.”

Fast Track Forward

Other concepts discussed included the use of incubators, centres of excellence and Fast Track to Innovation programmes. As to the latter, des Dorides noted that an ongoing challenge for EU funded projects is that they tend to take between three and four years to reach market. On the other hand, innovation happening elsewhere in the world moves much faster, leaving European-supported projects at risk of already being obsolete by the time they reach market.

A solution to this, which already exists as a pilot programme within Horizon 2020, is adopting a Fast Track to Innovation approach. The pilot programme supports innovative projects from the demonstration stage to market uptake, including such stages as piloting, test-beds, systems validation in real-world conditions, validation of business models, pre-normative research, and standard-setting.

Partners in Innovation

Overall, the des Dorides and Commissioner Moedas agreed to continue to work together to strengthen European support for GNSS R&D and innovation. “R&D and innovation are an essential element of Galileo’s success and I welcome an increased exchange and partnership with DG RTD,” said des Dorides. The two plan to continue the conversation in the near future at GSA headquarters in Prague.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Registration for the Fundamental Elements Info Day on 8, March, Prague, GSA Headquarters is now open.

Register here

Deadline for registration is 4 March.

Read more:

First “Fundamental Elements” Info Day
The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Registration for the Fundamental Elements Info Day on 8, March, Prague, GSA Headquarters is now open.

Register here

Deadline for registration is 4 March.

The agenda of the Info Day is available here.

Read more:

First “Fundamental Elements” Info Day
The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Registration for the Fundamental Elements Info Day on 8, March, Prague, GSA Headquarters is now closed. For any further information please contact market@gsa.europa.eu.

The agenda of the Info Day is available here.

Read more:

First “Fundamental Elements” Info Day
The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Registration for the Fundamental Elements Info Day on 8, March, Prague, GSA Headquarters is now open.

Register here

Read more:

First “Fundamental Elements” Info Day
The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Registration for the Fundamental Elements Info Day on 8, March, Prague, GSA Headquarters is now open.

Register here

Deadline for registration is 4 March.

The agenda of the Info Day is available here.

Read more:

First “Fundamental Elements” Info Day
The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Registration for the Fundamental Elements Info Day on 8, March, Prague, GSA Headquarters is now closed. For any further information please contact market@gsa.europa.eu.

The agenda of the Info Day is available here.

Read more:

First “Fundamental Elements” Info Day
The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Registration for the Fundamental Elements Info Day on 8, March, Prague, GSA Headquarters is now open.

Register here

Deadline for registration is 4 March.

Read more:

First “Fundamental Elements” Info Day
The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

With Asia emerging as an important market for GNSS, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) actively promoted Galileo in the region and helped foster opportunities for European companies looking to do business in Asia.

At a handful of events happening in Taiwan, South Korea and Vietnam, the Agency joined business and policy leaders from both continents to promote trans-regional cooperation towards the adoption of European GNSS in Asia.

According to the most recent edition of the GSA’s GNSS Market Report, Asia is the ‘hot spot’ for GNSS. In fact, it is currently the primary region of global market growth in terms of in-use GNSS devices. The region is forecasted to grow 11% per year, from 1.7 billion in 2014 to 4.1 billion devices in 2023 – more than the EU and North America combined.  More so, the GSA notes the region is becoming increasingly active in chipset manufacturing, along with building their own constellations.

In other words, Asia is an important market for GNSS, and the GSA is dedicated to ensuring European businesses are in a position to benefit from it.

Promoting Brand Europe

As part of this effort, the GSA is actively engaged with two projects geared towards supporting European interests within the Asian GNSS market. GNSS.asia is dedicated to developing and implementing GNSS industrial cooperation between European and Asia-Pacific GNSS industries, with a focus on the downstream sector.

“Industrial collaboration within the international context of the GNSS downstream sector is becoming increasingly important,” says project coordinator Rainer Horn. “This is particularly important now as Galileo moves towards operational readiness.”

GNSS.asia is offering country-specific market analysis (available on their online platform), networking, and speaking opportunities at Asian events and overall support to companies interested in doing business in or with Asia. The services are free of charge to European companies and are funded by the European Commission under the Horizon 2020 framework program for research and development. The project is also set to hold a special session on EU-Asia collaboration at the upcoming European Space Solutions Conference.

Similarly, the BELS Project, also funded under Horizon 2020, is committed to bringing European GNSS companies to South-East Asia. The main objective of BELS is to facilitate the breakthrough of E-GNSS technology by conducting a set of coordinated activities for raising awareness and capacity building. The BELS consortium is gathering the top GNSS universities and research institutes together to offer PhD partnering programmes, training opportunities and placement of students at EU and Asian companies.

For companies seeking to collaborate on GNSS R&D, BELS operates NAVIS, a dedicated GNSS R&D centre located in Hanoi, Vietnam. The facility is available for both testing and research activities, and as a hub for establishing new links with regional GNSS stakeholders. A motivated young team of researchers, having regular exchanges with European universities, complete the picture. Several EU receiver manufacturers have used the opportunity to co-locate their receivers at NAVIS, as the location is particularly suitable to test the multi-constellation function.

Tour de Asia

In support of these projects and the overall mission of promoting European GNSS interests in Asia, the GSA recently participated in some key events across the region.

In Taiwan, the GSA participated in the 2015 GNSS.asia Seminar. Entitled “Smart X: When GNSS Meets the Internet of Things”, the event welcomed 70 key players from both the industrial and institutional sides of GNSS. Of particular interest to the GSA’s work was a seminar on the current opportunities for downstream cooperation across various market domains and a networking event that brought together key stakeholders from Taiwan and Europe.

The GSA also participated in the Telematics Taiwan 2015 International Summit, an event focused on the fast growing area of smart connected telematics services and 4G. As an event sponsor, the GSA, along with GNSS.asia, hosted a special session on Galileo and its benefits to the Asian market. The session was one of the best attended, with around 200 attendees. 

In Vietnam, the GSA met with the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) Department of Science and Technology, who is responsible for the use of GNSS in Vietnam. The Agency shared the latest edition of the GNSS Market Report and learned about MIC’s recently completed report on GNSS use in Vietnam. Discussions focused on how the GSA can further support and advise MIC on standardising GNSS systems and services in Vietnam, and the role and benefits of Galileo for the many emerging GNSS applications in Vietnam (such as a telematics box placed in public transport vehicles to increase road safety and provide new services to users). 

“We believe that European technologies can further support the Vietnamese authorities as they continue to increase their use of GNSS and, in particular, such European GNSS programmes as Galileo,” says GSA Deputy Head of Market Development Fiammetta Diani.

In Seoul, Korea, the GSA promoted the eCall system, briefing Korean auto manufacturers on European regulations that require the installation of Galileo in all cars to be sold within the European Union. “E-Call is becoming an important topic for vehicle manufacturers and mobile network providers in Korea as the Korean government is considering the adoption of an initiative similar to what we have in Europe,” says Diani.

Representatives from Hyundai, SsangYong, GM Korea, BMW, Mercedes, Renault, Samsung, ST Microelectronics, LG Electronics, Korea Telecom and LG Telecom, along with government officials, participated in the briefing.

The Agency also participated in the Multi-GNSS Asia (MGA) Conference. MGA is an international organisation, endorsed by the UN’s International Committee on GNSS (ICG), with the goal of promoting the development of multi-GNSS applications in the Asia-Pacific region. MGA leads the Asia-Oceania Multi-GNSS Demonstration Campaign, which looks to create a forum for GNSS stakeholders and facilitate the sharing of innovative technologies for multi-GNSS utilisation.

“MGA is of particular interest to the GSA and projects like GNSS.asia and BELS as it focuses on multi-constellation services,” notes GSA Market Development Officer Justyna Redelkiewicz. “The event was an excellent opportunity for us to update the MGA community on the status of Galileo and its potential to deliver enhanced performance in Asia.”

Mission Accomplished

The GSA’s mission to Asia was a resounding success, with many important contacts made and numerous follow up actions already in motion. “The mission was very successful, giving the GSA a unique opportunity to promote Galileo to the Asian automotive and telematics industries – both of which demonstrated a deep interest in adopting the system,” says Diani. “Having the chance to network with national and scientific authorities will create further opportunities for European GNSS industry in Asia in the near future.”

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) joined the European space community to discuss how to better fund and support innovative space applications at the 8th Annual European Space Policy Conference in Brussels.

The word of choice at the 8th Annual European Space Policy Conference was ‘competitive’. From policy makers to representatives of space industry and space entrepreneurs, the message was clear: if Europe wants to keep its place as a global leader in space, it must make itself more competitive.

Held just days after the passing of David Bowie, the singer was a common reference and timely metaphor during the conference’s presentations. As one speaker pointed out, in order to be competitive Europe needs to take inspiration from Ziggy Stardust – Europe’s most famous space ambassador – and think outside the box.

In other words, to be competitive, Europe needs to be innovative.

Looking Downstream

“We all know that space policy matters, not only for its scientific benefits, but for the implications it has on the single market and the European economy as a whole,” said Commissioner for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs Elżbieta Bieńkowska. “Its cutting edge innovation has many spill over effects on other sectors, offering enormous opportunities for both European citizens and European companies.”

This being said, conference speakers continually stressed that Europe cannot afford to rest on past success. As noted by the Commissioner and numerous other speakers, the global market is quickly changing and, in turn, becoming increasingly competitive. Although the US market remains the largest, competition is now also coming from such emerging markets as China, Russia and India.

“If Europe is to maintain its competitive edge it must create conditions that give businesses the confidence they need to invest in European space,” said the Commissioner. “This requires us to shift our focus from the deployment phase to a focus on building a competitive downstream market, using our space policy to support the development of innovative applications and services that utilise the Europe’s space infrastructure.”

A New Approach to Funding

Joining a panel discussion on European R&D funding, GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides emphasised the importance of increasing the level of investment in space and the GSA’s role in doing so. “The role of the GSA is to maximise the return on investment of Galileo and EGNOS and make it a market success for the EU,” he said.

According to des Dorides, the development of new, downstream market applications is key to strengthening European industry and its ability to compete. In line with this, the GSA has been actively involved in the funding process via the successful FP7 and Horizon 2020 framework programmes for research and innovation, among others. These programmes, which aim to ensure that space remains accessible to Europe and safe to operate in the long run, have already produced tangible results. For example, FP7 saw the launch of 45 commercial products and 80 prototypes, and Horizon 2020 is expected to only increase these numbers. 

Despite the many success stories coming out of these initiatives, des Dorides stressed the need to go further. In comparison to the funding for space-related R&D in the US, as an example, he noted that the US has a clear advantage over Europe in its large internal market that was created via government spending on space. “When it comes to investment in civil space R&D, the US invests twice as much as Europe,” he said. “If Europe is to achieve a leadership position in space related activities, it simply must invest more in the downstream market.”

As an example of how to achieve this, des Dorides noted that European space public R&D would benefit from a more focused and coordinated funding process. Currently, funding comes from multiple sources, from Member States to the ESA, GSA, REA and EASME. “Some industrial actors worry that R&D funding may be too disparate, making it difficult to establish clear returns on investment,” he said. “Therefore, it is very important that we coordinate the activities among all involved players.” To assist with this, the GSA published a Funding Guide, a centralised database listing all available funding initiatives for space. 

But it’s not just better coordination that is needed, it’s also about building a more focused and efficient funding mechanism, in particular for the downstream market. “We need to take into account the overarching problem of time to market,” said des Dorides. “We need to maximise the use of existing tools to ensure funded projects achieve a shorter time to market and look for new financial mechanisms geared towards more mature space solutions.”

Traditionally, projects funded by FP7 or Horizon 2020 take between three to four years to reach the market. This can be a problem as when innovation happening elsewhere moves faster, it risks leaving the European project obsolete by the time it is read to market. To tighten this timeline and swing the advantage back to European industry, various funding tools have been proposed, including the establishment of Centres of Excellence and fast track to innovation programmes that aim to bring a product to market within around one year. Des Dorides also noted the need for new financial tools that respond to the growing maturity of space technology, most specifically the use of incubators and venture capital. 

“As to venture capital, we are starting to see some small steps from the private sector, but the public sector needs to do more to further this and promote commercial projects,” he concluded. “With Galileo, which will see the launch of initial services this year, we have the public infrastructure. Now we need the applications and services that capitalise on this infrastructure, and here is where venture capital could be an answer.”

Rebel Rebel

In the US the catchphrase for innovation is ‘disruption’. Such innovation giants as Google and SpaceX are thinking outside the box and using innovation to disrupt the space sector. In order to maintain its leadership position against such competition, Europe needs to build on its strengths and better coordinate funding, encourage risk taking and promote the benefits of space to the European public. 

“We may not be able to counter the US giants, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do anything,” says ESA Head of Programme Planning and Coordination, Earth Observation Programmes Josef Aschbacher. “We need to organise ourselves better, intensify our commitment to funding, work to get the topic of space further into policy discussions and issue legislation that promotes and protects companies that are working in the space sector.”

In summary, whereas the US has embraced disruption, perhaps Europe needs to take embrace its own unique approach to space innovation and, as one presenter suggested, be more ‘rebel rebel’ in its space policies.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) joined the European space community to discuss how to better fund and support innovative space applications at the 8th Annual European Space Policy Conference in Brussels.

The word of choice at the 8th Annual European Space Policy Conference was ‘competitive’. From policy makers to representatives of space industry and space entrepreneurs, the message was clear: if Europe wants to keep its place as a global leader in space, it must make itself more competitive.

Held just days after the passing of David Bowie, the singer was a common reference and timely metaphor during the conference’s presentations. As one speaker pointed out, in order to be competitive Europe needs to take inspiration from Ziggy Stardust – Europe’s most famous space ambassador – and think outside the box.

In other words, to be competitive, Europe needs to be innovative.

Looking Downstream

“We all know that space policy matters, not only for its scientific benefits, but for the implications it has on the single market and the European economy as a whole,” said Commissioner for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs Elżbieta Bieńkowska. “Its cutting edge innovation has many spill over effects on other sectors, offering enormous opportunities for both European citizens and European companies.”

This being said, conference speakers continually stressed that Europe cannot afford to rest on past success. As noted by the Commissioner and numerous other speakers, the global market is quickly changing and, in turn, becoming increasingly competitive. Although the US market remains the largest, competition is now also coming from such emerging markets as China, Russia and India.

“If Europe is to maintain its competitive edge it must create conditions that give businesses the confidence they need to invest in European space,” said the Commissioner. “This requires us to shift our focus from the deployment phase to a focus on building a competitive downstream market, using our space policy to support the development of innovative applications and services that utilise the Europe’s space infrastructure.”

A New Approach to Funding

Joining a panel discussion on European R&D funding, GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides emphasised the importance of increasing the level of investment in space and the GSA’s role in doing so. “The role of the GSA is to maximise the return on investment of Galileo and EGNOS and make it a market success for the EU,” he said.

According to des Dorides, the development of new, downstream market applications is key to strengthening European industry and its ability to compete. In line with this, the GSA has been actively involved in the funding process via the successful FP7 and Horizon 2020 framework programmes for research and innovation, among others. These programmes, which aim to ensure that space remains accessible to Europe and safe to operate in the long run, have already produced tangible results. For example, FP7 saw the launch of 45 commercial products and 80 prototypes, and Horizon 2020 is expected to only increase these numbers. 

Despite the many success stories coming out of these initiatives, des Dorides stressed the need to go further. In comparison to the funding for space-related R&D in the US, as an example, he noted that the US has a clear advantage over Europe in its large internal market that was created via government spending on space. “When it comes to investment in civil space R&D, the US invests twice as much as Europe,” he said. “If Europe is to achieve a leadership position in space related activities, it simply must invest more in the downstream market.”

As an example of how to achieve this, des Dorides noted that European space public R&D would benefit from a more focused and coordinated funding process. Currently, funding comes from multiple sources, from Member States to the ESA, GSA, REA and EASME. “Some industrial actors worry that R&D funding may be too disparate, making it difficult to establish clear returns on investment,” he said. “Therefore, it is very important that we coordinate the activities among all involved players.” To assist with this, the GSA published a Funding Guide, a centralised database listing all available funding initiatives for space. 

But it’s not just better coordination that is needed, it’s also about building a more focused and efficient funding mechanism, in particular for the downstream market. “We need to take into account the overarching problem of time to market,” said des Dorides. “We need to maximise the use of existing tools to ensure funded projects achieve a shorter time to market and look for new financial mechanisms geared towards more mature space solutions.”

Read Also: Shaping the Future of European GNSS

Traditionally, projects funded by FP7 or Horizon 2020 take between three to four years to reach the market. This can be a problem as when innovation happening elsewhere moves faster, it risks leaving the European project obsolete by the time it is read to market. To tighten this timeline and swing the advantage back to European industry, various funding tools have been proposed, including the establishment of Centres of Excellence and fast track to innovation programmes that aim to bring a product to market within around one year. Des Dorides also noted the need for new financial tools that respond to the growing maturity of space technology, most specifically the use of incubators and venture capital. 

“As to venture capital, we are starting to see some small steps from the private sector, but the public sector needs to do more to further this and promote commercial projects,” he concluded. “With Galileo, which will see the launch of initial services this year, we have the public infrastructure. Now we need the applications and services that capitalise on this infrastructure, and here is where venture capital could be an answer.”

Rebel Rebel

In the US the catchphrase for innovation is ‘disruption’. Such innovation giants as Google and SpaceX are thinking outside the box and using innovation to disrupt the space sector. In order to maintain its leadership position against such competition, Europe needs to build on its strengths and better coordinate funding, encourage risk taking and promote the benefits of space to the European public. 

“We may not be able to counter the US giants, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do anything,” says ESA Head of Programme Planning and Coordination, Earth Observation Programmes Josef Aschbacher. “We need to organise ourselves better, intensify our commitment to funding, work to get the topic of space further into policy discussions and issue legislation that promotes and protects companies that are working in the space sector.”

In summary, whereas the US has embraced disruption, perhaps Europe needs to take embrace its own unique approach to space innovation and, as one presenter suggested, be more ‘rebel rebel’ in its space policies.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

When it comes to railway signalling in Europe, the integrity delivered by EGNOS can be the enabler for safe train localisation provided by E-GNSS. EGNOS offers improved precision of positioning for free, which further contributes to the efficiency of train localisation in the European Railway Traffic Management System (ERTMS).

For now, mainly due to a difficult rail environment, safety-relevant GNSS-based solutions don’t meet the positioning requirements specified by the ERTMS standard. In the future, however, with the currently under development EGNOS V3 multi-frequency/multi-constellation, augmentation will improve accuracy and reliability of the positioning information. By 2020, Galileo will be fully deployed and will deliver an independent civilian infrastructure with robust positioning and timing services and a high degree of performance.

According to a presentation from Peter Gurnik, Technical Affairs Manager for UNIFE, an industry association representing the European Rail Supply Industry, GNSS reduces costs when used with the European Train Control System (ETCS): The ultimate objective is to reduce the cost of ETCS trackside by reducing the number of bailises in the track, which would also increase availability and reduce exposure to theft and vandalism. More so, according to the presentation, in order to minimise the impact on ETCS, the concept of ‘virtual balises’ was developed, in which a GNSS-based positioning system confirms a train’s position at defined reference points.

Adapting to Rail

Since EGNOS was designed to answer aviation requirements, some features are not applicable unless specifically adapted for railways. To assist in this adaptation and improve GNSS services for rail, there is ongoing support through the Horizon 2020 funding programme and, previously, via the FP7 programme.

For example, the GSA is working with Next Generation Train Control, a three-year FP7 research project in coordination with UNIFE, to analyse the commonalities and differences of current major train control systems. The common functions of these systems are then used as the basis for Next Generation Train Control system specifications. Through this project, satellite positioning was identified as an emerging technology to be integrated into future train controls.

Satellite Technology for Advanced Railway Signalling (STARS), a Horizon 2020 project under the 2nd Galileo call, has been favourably evaluated and is another example of how GNSS services can assist in rail applications. This project aims to fill the gap between the need for safety critical applications and E-GNSS services through a characterisation of the railway environment and of GNSS performance assessments in that environment. Through the project, a universal approach to predict the achievable GNSS performance in a railway environment will be developed, especially for safety critical applications.

“Though there is work to be done to adapt EGNOS to railways, the future is promising,” says GSA Market Development Officer Daniel Lopour. “With the help of partners like UNIFE, and research through new, innovative projects, GNSS services are on the way to making rail more affordable and efficient for cities, and more accurate and safer for everyone.”

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Swiss company Skyguide provides safe and reliable air navigation services to clients, and is increasingly reliant on European GNSS.

According to Dr. Marc Troller of the CNS expert group for Skyguide, satellite navigation enables instrument-based flying independent of ground-based navigation installations. “The intention is to change from conventional navigation to GNSS,” says Dr. Troller. He further notes that this switch to GNSS is also be useful for helicopter operators, who will be able to operate irrespective of the weather as long as their helicopters are appropriately equipped and certified and their pilots have the necessary training.

Skyguide launched CHIPS, a Swiss-wide programme to implement new technologies such as GNSS-based operations, which is a huge innovation for Swiss aviation. “We are proceeding very well,” says Troller. “We have implemented all of the possible applications and technologies of GNSS/PBN by at least one procedure at most of the airports in Switzerland.” He notes that new helicopter procedures have also been implemented.

Also Read: Flexibility, Expansion and Business – GSA Talks EGNOS and Aviation at Annual Service Provision Workshop

To this end, Skyguide launched the GNSS Low Flight Network project in close collaboration with the Swiss Air Force and Rega, the Swiss helicopter emergency medical service. The GNSS Low Flight Network links aerodromes with IFR procedures and hospitals and heliports with point-in-space procedures. The route sits in ECHO class airspace, which is below the existing airway system. These low flight altitudes minimise the risk of helicopter rotors icing.

“Skyguide pushes GNSS in order to optimally exploit the limited airspace resource and consequently increase flexibility and capacity while reducing the costs,” explains Dr. Troller. “The signal is more accurate, meaning more sophisticated flight operations are possible, especially in mountainous terrain.”

Reliability and innovation are cornerstones of Skyguide’s work. The company provides accurate, safe and reliable air navigation to customers and partners, and forces value-adding solutions and the use of innovative technologies to continuously improve its services. At the same time, it aims to be cost effective and sustainable. Through implementing GNSS, Skyguide can offer an affordable, accurate, innovative service to client – from the military to aircraft or helicopter operators.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Winners of the GNSS.asia Challenge, an award supported by the European GNSS Agency, recognized innovative applications that use European GNSS to provide global benefits.

GNSS.asia, a project supported by the European GNSS Agency (GSA), and the  European Satellite Navigation Competition (ESNC) recently awarded the GNSS.asia Challenge 2015. The Challenge offered participants an opportunity to share their innovative GNSS-based services, products and business ideas for the Asia-Pacific market.

Fifty GNSS innovations from 15 different countries were completed for the competition, and a winner and two runners-up presented during the award ceremony, held on December 9th in Brunei Darussalam.

Also Read: And the 2015 Winners is…

GeoKey, a locking system that incorporates geographic location as an additional security measure, was chosen as the overall winner by an international jury of GNSS experts, including GSA Market Development Officer Justyna Redelkiewicz, Mr. Sakurai from the Space Application Centre of Japan and Mr. Vadarajaran from European Business Group India. The lock uses a dual security mechanism so it can only be unlocked in a predefined location with a set security code. Using Galileo’s OS Authentication function and a user-friendly mobile configuration application, the lock offers a reliable and affordable solution for cargo theft, which is a widespread issue across India and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region. 

A solution to avoid queuing, another issue in several Asia-Pacific economies, won first runner-up. HappyQ uses a combination of GNSS services and live data to calculate the estimated waiting time and propose alternate activities for users, such as visiting nearby shops or suggesting exercise opportunities. Based on customer statistics, it targets potential customers with personalised advertising and suggestions.

“If you implement HappyQ in an administrative place, people can go, apply to get in the line and instead of just waiting there for say, 45 minutes, go somewhere else,” says HappyQ co-founder Jordan Vannitsen. “It is very easy to just put a simple generic tablet with the system in place, and if the premises already have a queue ticket system, the application can interface with the existing system.”

Also Read: Life-saving Drone Wins 2015 European Satellite Navigation Competition

Rapid Emergency Medical System (REMS) took home the prize for second runner-up for its GNSS-based emergency management system that integrates tracking and tracing capability with comprehensive emergency medical care for registered patients. REMS provides an emergency notification to the EMS using a personal locator, mobile device, or fixed line, as well as a precise incident location of the patient using GNSS. It also offers advanced patient information for paramedics and an emergency vehicle tracking system for navigation guidance.

The three winners, as well as the other innovative solutions presented, clearly demonstrate how GNSS services – and in particular Galileo – can help create a safer, more efficient region. Next year the GSA is funding a similar award via the GSA-supported BELS project. The award will focus on EU cooperation with South-East Asia.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Winners of the GNSS.asia Challenge, an award supported by the European GNSS Agency, recognized innovative applications that use European GNSS to provide global benefits.

GNSS.asia, a project supported by the European GNSS Agency (GSA), and the  European Satellite Navigation Competition (ESNC) recently awarded the GNSS.asia Challenge 2015. The Challenge offered participants an opportunity to share their innovative GNSS-based services, products and business ideas for the Asia-Pacific market.

Fifty GNSS innovations from 15 different countries were completed for the competition, and a winner and two runners-up presented during the award ceremony, held on December 9th in Brunei Darussalam.

Also Read: And the 2015 Winners is…

GeoKey, a locking system that incorporates geographic location as an additional security measure, was chosen as the overall winner by an international jury of GNSS experts, including GSA Market Development Officer Justyna Redelkiewicz, Mr. Sakurai from the Space Application Centre of Japan and Mr. Vadarajaran from European Business Group India. The lock uses a dual security mechanism so it can only be unlocked in a predefined location with a set security code. Using Galileo’s OS Authentication function and a user-friendly mobile configuration application, the lock offers a reliable and affordable solution for cargo theft, which is a widespread issue across India and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region. 

A solution to avoid queuing, another issue in several Asia-Pacific economies, won first runner-up. HappyQ uses a combination of GNSS services and live data to calculate the estimated waiting time and propose alternate activities for users, such as visiting nearby shops or suggesting exercise opportunities. Based on customer statistics, it targets potential customers with personalised advertising and suggestions.

“If you implement HappyQ in an administrative place, people can go, apply to get in the line and instead of just waiting there for say, 45 minutes, go somewhere else,” says HappyQ co-founder Jordan Vannitsen. “It is very easy to just put a simple generic tablet with the system in place, and if the premises already have a queue ticket system, the application can interface with the existing system.”

Also Read: Life-saving Drone Wins 2015 European Satellite Navigation Competition

Rapid Emergency Medical System (REMS) took home the prize for second runner-up for its GNSS-based emergency management system that integrates tracking and tracing capability with comprehensive emergency medical care for registered patients. REMS provides an emergency notification to the EMS using a personal locator, mobile device, or fixed line, as well as a precise incident location of the patient using GNSS. It also offers advanced patient information for paramedics and an emergency vehicle tracking system for navigation guidance.

The three winners, as well as the other innovative solutions presented, clearly demonstrate how GNSS services – and in particular Galileo – can help create a safer, more efficient region. Next year the GSA is funding a similar award via the GSA-supported BELS project. The award will focus on EU cooperation with South-East Asia.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The Tender Information Package (TIP) regarding the replenishment of EGNOS Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS) payloads has been issued by the GSA.

The TIP complements the information contained in the Contract Notice to prepare for the EGNOS Geostationary (GEO) SBAS payload service (GEO-3) procurement process to ensure continuous EGNOS Signal In Space availability and to support the future transition from EGNOS V2 to EGNOS V3.

The EGNOS operational message is currently broadcast to  users through navigation payloads on board two GEO satellites (Inmarsat-3F2 and SES-5). These payloads relay the SBAS signals generated on the ground, allowing the users to benefit from the augmented positioning accuracy and integrity. A third EGNOS GEO satellite SBAS payload embarked on ASTRA-5B is currently under integration and should be deployed by mid-2016. Finally, a fourth GEO satellite SBAS payload on-board Inmarsat-4F2 is available for EGNOS, but only for test purposes.

According to the approaching end of life of Inmarsat 3F2 currently embarking an EGNOS payload, the need to ensure continuous EGNOS Signal In Space (SIS) availability - for which two GEO satellites are required to broadcast EGNOS message - and in view of the future transition to the second EGNOS generation (EGNOS V3) to support Dual-Frequency Multi-Constellation (DFMC) services, the GSA is planning for the replenishment of EGNOS SBAS payloads with the procurement of the GEO-3 services to be delivered from 2019.

The GEO-3 service provider will have the responsibility of relaying  the EGNOS message, to users.

For this purpose, the GEO-3 service provider will have to develop an EGNOS SBAS payload, integrate it on-board a GEO satellite, and organise the launch and positioning of the GEO on its final orbital arc allowing an EGNOS message to be broadcast over the EGNOS service area (i.e., the European Union Member States (EU-MS), Norway and Switzerland Flight Information Regions (FIR).) In parallel, the GEO-3 service provider will also have to develop two redundant RF ground stations necessary to uplink EGNOS message to the payload and to host the EGNOS Navigation Land Earth Station (NLES) equipment which will be collocated and connected to these RF ground stations.

The indicative duration of the contract is expected to be 18 years in total, which will comprise two phases: three years for the service preparation phase and fifteen years for the service provision phase. Initially the contract will be signed until the end of 2021 due to the fact that EU funds are only currently allocated for this period.  An amount corresponding to €22,000,000 (twenty two million euro) is set aside for this period.  Renewal of the contract for the full duration shall be contingent upon the allocation of EU funds to GEO-3.

Any requests for additional information must be sent to tenders@gsa.europa.eu.

Any additional information will be published in the form of "Clarification" on the freely accessible http://www.gsa.europa.eu/egnos-geostationary-sbas-payload-service-geo-3h in Phase I or, in Phase II and III sent directly to Candidates respecting equal treatment principle;
GSA expects to receive the Requests to Participate by 22/01/2016 as the first step of the procurement process.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The Tender Information Package (TIP) regarding the replenishment of EGNOS Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS) payloads has been issued by the GSA.

The TIP complements the information contained in the Contract Notice to prepare for the EGNOS Geostationary (GEO) SBAS payload service (GEO-3) procurement process to ensure continuous EGNOS Signal In Space availability and to support the future transition from EGNOS V2 to EGNOS V3.

The EGNOS operational message is currently broadcast to  users through navigation payloads on board two GEO satellites (Inmarsat-3F2 and SES-5). These payloads relay the SBAS signals generated on the ground, allowing the users to benefit from the augmented positioning accuracy and integrity. A third EGNOS GEO satellite SBAS payload embarked on ASTRA-5B is currently under integration and should be deployed by mid-2016. Finally, a fourth GEO satellite SBAS payload on-board Inmarsat-4F2 is available for EGNOS, but only for test purposes.

According to the approaching end of life of Inmarsat 3F2 currently embarking an EGNOS payload, the need to ensure continuous EGNOS Signal In Space (SIS) availability - for which two GEO satellites are required to broadcast EGNOS message - and in view of the future transition to the second EGNOS generation (EGNOS V3) to support Dual-Frequency Multi-Constellation (DFMC) services, the GSA is planning for the replenishment of EGNOS SBAS payloads with the procurement of the GEO-3 services to be delivered from 2019.

The GEO-3 service provider will have the responsibility of relaying  the EGNOS message, to users.

For this purpose, the GEO-3 service provider will have to develop an EGNOS SBAS payload, integrate it on-board a GEO satellite, and organise the launch and positioning of the GEO on its final orbital arc allowing an EGNOS message to be broadcast over the EGNOS service area (i.e., the European Union Member States (EU-MS), Norway and Switzerland Flight Information Regions (FIR).) In parallel, the GEO-3 service provider will also have to develop two redundant RF ground stations necessary to uplink EGNOS message to the payload and to host the EGNOS Navigation Land Earth Station (NLES) equipment which will be collocated and connected to these RF ground stations.

The indicative duration of the contract is expected to be 18 years in total, which will comprise two phases: three years for the service preparation phase and fifteen years for the service provision phase. Initially the contract will be signed until the end of 2021 due to the fact that EU funds are only currently allocated for this period.  An amount corresponding to €22,000,000 (twenty two million euro) is set aside for this period.  Renewal of the contract for the full duration shall be contingent upon the allocation of EU funds to GEO-3.

Any requests for additional information must be sent to tenders@gsa.europa.eu.

Any additional information will be published in the form of "Clarification" on the freely accessible http://www.gsa.europa.eu/egnos-geostationary-sbas-payload-service-geo-3h in Phase I or, in Phase II and III sent directly to Candidates respecting equal treatment principle;
GSA expects to receive the Requests to Participate by 22/01/2016 as the first step of the procurement process.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Mark your calendar for the first "Fundamental Elements" Info Day, 16 February 2016, Prague, GSA headquarters.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA website in the beginning of 2016.

Led by the GSA, Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements projects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

This first Info Day will give an opportunity for businesses to learn more about the "Fundamental Elements" funding from GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers who will present the details of the Calls. Web-streaming of the Info Day presentations may be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 11 February 2016 at 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will be published on the GSA website following the event.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.

Mark your calendar for the first "Fundamental Elements" Info Day, 8 March 2016, Prague, GSA headquarters.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA website in the beginning of 2016.

Led by the GSA, Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements projects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

This first Info Day2 will give an opportunity for businesses to learn more about the "Fundamental Elements" funding from GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers who will present the details of the Calls. Web-streaming of the Info Day presentations may be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 3 March 2016 at 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will be published on the GSA website following the event.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.
• 2. Please note that the Fundamental Elements programme is covering both, PRS and non-PRS related projects – this information day is focussing only on the non-PRS ones.

Mark your calendar for the first "Fundamental Elements" Info Day, 16 February 2016, Prague, GSA headquarters.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA website in the beginning of 2016.

Led by the GSA, Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements projects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

This first Info Day will give an opportunity for businesses to learn more about the "Fundamental Elements" funding from GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers who will present the details of the Calls. Web-streaming of the Info Day presentations may be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 11 February 2016 at 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will be published on the GSA website following the event.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.

Mark your calendar for the first "Fundamental Elements" Info Day, 16 February 2016, Prague, GSA headquarters.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA website in the beginning of 2016.

Led by the GSA, Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements projects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

This first Info Day2 will give an opportunity for businesses to learn more about the "Fundamental Elements" funding from GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers who will present the details of the Calls. Web-streaming of the Info Day presentations may be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 11 February 2016 at 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will be published on the GSA website following the event.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.
• 2. Please note that the Fundamental Elements programme is covering both, PRS and non-PRS related projects – this information day is focussing only on the non-PRS ones.

Mark your calendar for the first "Fundamental Elements" Info Day, 16 February 2016, Prague, GSA headquarters.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA website in the beginning of 2016.

Led by the GSA, Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements projects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

This first Info Day will give an opportunity for businesses to learn more about the "Fundamental Elements" funding from GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers who will present the details of the Calls. Web-streaming of the Info Day presentations may be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 11 February 2016 at 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will be published on the GSA website following the event.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.

Mark your calendar for the first "Fundamental Elements" Info Day, 8 March 2016, Prague, GSA headquarters.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA website in the beginning of 2016.

Led by the GSA, Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements projects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

This first Info Day2 will give an opportunity for businesses to learn more about the "Fundamental Elements" funding from GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers who will present the details of the Calls. Web-streaming of the Info Day presentations may be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 3 March 2016 at 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will be published on the GSA website following the event.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.
• 2. Please note that the Fundamental Elements programme is covering both, PRS and non-PRS related projects – this information day is focussing only on the non-PRS ones.

Mark your calendar for the first "Fundamental Elements" Info Day, 8 March 2016, Prague, GSA headquarters.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA website in the beginning of 2016.

Led by the GSA, Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements projects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

This first Info Day2 will give an opportunity for businesses to learn more about the "Fundamental Elements" funding from GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers who will present the details of the Calls. Web-streaming of the Info Day presentations may be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 3 March 2016 at 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will be published on the GSA website following the event.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.
• 2. Please note that the Fundamental Elements programme is covering both, PRS and non-PRS related projects – this information day is focussing only on the non-PRS ones.

Mark your calendar for the first "Fundamental Elements" Info Day, 8 March 2016, Prague, GSA headquarters.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA website in the beginning of 2016.

Led by the GSA, Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements projects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

This first Info Day2 will give an opportunity for businesses to learn more about the "Fundamental Elements" funding from GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers who will present the details of the Calls. Web-streaming of the Info Day presentations may be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 3 March 2016 at 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will be published on the GSA website following the event.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.
• 2. Please note that the Fundamental Elements programme is covering both, PRS and non-PRS related projects – this information day is focussing only on the non-PRS ones.

Mark your calendar for the first edition of the Fundamental Elements Info Day, in Prague in the GSA headquarters on 16 February 2016.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA web page in the first months of 2016.

Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake, led by GSA.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements mechanisms are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

The Info Day will give the opportunity for companies to have GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers presenting the specificities of the Calls. Web-streaming of the day might be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 11 February 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will subsequently be published on the GSA web page.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.

Mark your calendar for the first "Fundamental Elements" Info Day, 8 March 2016, Prague, GSA headquarters.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA website in the beginning of 2016.

Led by the GSA, Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements projects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

This first Info Day2 will give an opportunity for businesses to learn more about the "Fundamental Elements" funding from GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers who will present the details of the Calls. Web-streaming of the Info Day presentations may be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 3 March 2016 at 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will be published on the GSA website following the event.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.
• 2. Please note that the Fundamental Elements programme is covering both, PRS and non-PRS related projects – this information day is focussing only on the non-PRS ones.

Mark your calendar for the first edition of the Fundamental Elements Info Day, in Prague in the GSA headquarters on 16 February 2016.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA web page in the first months of 2016.

Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake, led by GSA.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements pojects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

The Info Day will give the opportunity for companies to have GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers presenting the specificities of the Calls. Web-streaming of the day might be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 11 February 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will subsequently be published on the GSA web page.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.

Mark your calendar for the first "Fundamental Elements" Info Day, 8 March 2016, Prague, GSA headquarters.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new calls for proposals on Fundamental Elements that will be published on the GSA website in the beginning of 2016.

Led by the GSA, Fundamental Elements1 is a new EU R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers to help the overall European GNSS strategy for market uptake.

The objectives of Fundamental Elements projects are to:

• Facilitate  the adoption of the European GNSS Systems, building on innovative services and differentiators
• Improve the competitiveness of EU industry
• Address user needs in priority market segments
• Maximise benefits to European citizens

This first Info Day2 will give an opportunity for businesses to learn more about the "Fundamental Elements" funding from GSA technical, Legal and Financial Officers who will present the details of the Calls. Web-streaming of the Info Day presentations may be available.

If you have any questions related to the calls, please submit them by 3 March 2016 at 17:00 to the following email address: market@gsa.europa.eu

The answers shared during the meeting will be published on the GSA website following the event.

Read more:

The Fundamentals of European GNSS
GSA hosts Workshop on Galileo Chipsets and Receivers
GSA launches R&D support for the advancement of European GNSS chipset and receiver technologies

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

• 1. Established by 2013 GNSS Regulation following the Regulation (EU) No 1285/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the implementation and exploitation of the European satellite navigation systems.
• 2. Please note that the Fundamental Elements programme is covering both, PRS and non-PRS related projects – this information day is focussing only on the non-PRS ones.

As 2015 draws to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on the past year – the challenges and the accomplishments – while also looking at what’s ahead.

2015 marked a very important year for the Agency and for the entire European GNSS community. Both of Europe’s GNSS programmes – Galileo and EGNOS – saw substantial progress. For Galileo 2015 was a record-breaking year, with the launch of six satellites. This, in addition to a ground segment already nearing completion, Galileo’s future looks brighter than ever.

In anticipation for the launch of Initial Services, the GSA has been busy preparing the user segment. For example, we recently launched ‘Fundamental Elements’, an R&D funding mechanism supporting the development of chipsets and receivers. This is an important part of the GSA’s overall strategy of market uptake, with the aim of facilitating the development of EGNOS and Galileo applications across different sectors of the economy.   

Likewise, EGNOS continues to provide a solid performance – and with V2 and V3 ready for launch, this performance will only be further enhanced in the coming months. From the user perspective, we are continuing to see increases in EGNOS adoption across numerous market segments, including maritime and rail. In the aviation sector, for example, the launch of LPV 200 has seen more and more airports and aircraft operators choosing to become EGNOS-enabled. Thanks to our continued dialogue with a range of stakeholders, we fully expect this trend to continue.

Of course the success of both Galileo and EGNOS is heavily dependent on our ability to convert this technology into tangible benefits for the end user. For this reason, the GSA remains committed to supporting R&D activities. Along this line, we recently announced the results of the second call for Galileo applications under the Horizon 2020 programme for research and innovation. Nearly EUR 25M in funding went to 13 projects, covering transport, surveying, location-based services, agriculture, emergency services and other professional applications.

Turning towards the future, I am honoured to have been re-elected to serve as the Executive Director of the GSA for another four years. In these upcoming years we will put into practice all that we have been preparing for. In 2016 the GSA will finalize the contract for the future Galileo service provider and by 2017 the Agency will be fully responsible for the service and operations of Galileo. 

We enter the New Year in the midst of an exciting time for the GNSS market. As indicated in the GSA’s 2015 GNSS Market Report, which has become the industry reference, today there are more than 4 billion devices using GNSS services, and that number is expected to triple by 2023. The sector is estimated to grow at more than 8% each year until at least 2019. With all this potential for GNSS – and in particular European GNSS – the GSA is confident that together with the European GNSS community, we will be able to harness this technology and translate it into jobs, business opportunities and economic sustainability for the benefit of all European citizens.

Best wishes for a happy and fruitful 2016. 

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On November 24, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) hosted its 3rd Annual Workshop with Receiver Manufacturers at its headquarters in Prague, where discussions focused on the adoption of Galileo in chipsets and receivers.

Since 2010, the GSA has paid special attention to cooperation with chipset and receiver manufacturers in order to ensure market readiness for Galileo Initial Services, as GNSS hardware development can take up to several years. Thirty-five percent of receiver models are already Galileo enabled, and in Europe the number increases to more than 50%.

Workshop participants received an update on the Galileo programme status, programmatic documents and briefings on regulatory activities from the GSA, European Commission and ESA. They were also presented the results of a Galileo receiver testing campaign, in which 16 receiver manufacturers took part. GSA provides the overall management of the campaign and relationship with the receiver manufacturers, while the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre conducts the tests of professional receivers and ESA of the mass-market ones.  In order to expedite the use of Galileo in receivers, the GSA will continue to hold industry consultations, as well as technical workshops and testing campaigns.

Especially in urban canyons and other areas with difficult conditions, Galileo will add value to the overall multi-constellation performance. The GSA is excited about the positive testing results, and is committed to supporting the receiver industry in their investments in Galileo. The recently launched Fundamental Elements R&D programme is one example of funding from the GSA, and the Agency is looking forward to seeing new research and successful use of Galileo in the near future.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On November 24, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) hosted its 3rd Annual Workshop with Receiver Manufacturers at its headquarters in Prague, where discussions focused on the adoption of Galileo in chipsets and receivers.

Since 2010, the GSA has paid special attention to cooperation with chipset and receiver manufacturers in order to ensure market readiness for Galileo Initial Services, as GNSS hardware development can take up to several years. Thirty-five percent of receiver models are already Galileo enabled, and in Europe the number increases to more than 50%.

Workshop participants received an update on the Galileo programme status, programmatic documents and briefings on regulatory activities from the GSA, European Commission and ESA. The results of the Galileo receiver testing campaign were also presented, in which 16 receiver manufacturers took part. GSA provided the overall management of the campaign and relationship with the receiver manufacturers, while the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre conducts the tests of professional receivers and ESA of the mass-market ones. 

In order to accelerate the use of Galileo in receivers, the GSA will continue to hold industry consultations, as well as technical workshops and testing campaigns.

Galileo will add value to the overall multi-constellation performance, epecially in urban canyons and other areas with difficult conditions. The GSA is excited about the positive testing results, and is committed to supporting the receiver industry in their investments in Galileo. The recently launched Fundamental Elements R&D programme is one example of funding from the GSA, and the Agency is looking forward to seeing new research and successful use of Galileo in the near future.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

On November 24, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) hosted its 3rd Annual Workshop with Receiver Manufacturers at its headquarters in Prague, where discussions focused on the adoption of Galileo in chipsets and receivers.

Since 2010, the GSA has paid special attention to cooperation with chipset and receiver manufacturers in order to ensure market readiness for Galileo Initial Services, as GNSS hardware development can take up to several years. Thirty-five percent of receiver models are already Galileo enabled, and in Europe the number increases to more than 50%.

Workshop participants received an update on the Galileo programme status, programmatic documents and briefings on regulatory activities from the GSA, European Commission and ESA. The results of the Galileo receiver testing campaign were also presented, in which 16 receiver manufacturers took part. GSA provided the overall management of the campaign and relationship with the receiver manufacturers, while the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre conducts the tests of professional receivers and ESA of the mass-market ones. 

In order to accelerate the use of Galileo in receivers, the GSA will continue to hold industry consultations, as well as technical workshops and testing campaigns.

Galileo will add value to the overall multi-constellation performance, epecially in urban canyons and other areas with difficult conditions. The GSA is excited about the positive testing results, and is committed to supporting the receiver industry in their investments in Galileo. The recently launched Fundamental Elements R&D programme is one example of funding from the GSA, and the Agency is looking forward to seeing new research and successful use of Galileo in the near future.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Mistrale, a project to develop a soil moisture monitoring drone  funded by the GSA under the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, is changing the way European farmers decide on where, when and how much to irrigate. The UAV-mounted sensor produces a detailed map showing the soil moisture differences in an area.

“The population of the world is growing by two billion people,” says Jeroen Verschoore, one of the project managers. “To feed this increasing population requires higher yields. One way is to increase production is to improve the water supply since irrigated crops have a two times higher yield than non-irrigated crops. Adequate soil moisture mapping is a relevant tool to understand the different water needs in different corners of the field.”

Mistrale uses GNSS Reflectometry to create soil moisture maps for farmers and decision makers on water boards and in nature management. The project started in March 2015, and the first test flight was completed in early August. For this test flight a manned aircraft was filled with extensive equipment. Verschoore says this will be downsized and in the future Mistrale will be able to conduct surveys using UAVs.

Also Read: Precision Agriculture Helps Feed Earth’s Growing Population

Currently, an antenna on top of the plane registers the signals of Galileo satellites (on top of GPS and GLONASS ones), measuring their signal’s strength and position. Another antenna located on the bottom of the plane measures the reflected signal, with the characteristics of the reflections revealing the amount of moisture in the soil. “We use GNSS for multiple purposes,” explains Verschoore. “For example, we use EGNOS and, in the future the Galileo signal, both to navigate and for the remote sensing of soil moisture.” 

The second part of the project involves computing a detailed map of the field depicting the areas of different moisture levels via a user-friendly interface. The objective is to extract soil-moisture data and quickly deliver the corresponding map to a farmer or reservoir manager within an hour. Verschoore stresses the importance of this time element: “When you are talking about irrigation you have to be quick,” he says. “When a farmer thinks the soil is dry, he wants to be able to easily measure and find an immediate solution.”

The European GNSS Advantage

MISTRALE uses European GNSS data for both navigating the UAV and for measuring the soil moisture underneath the area it is flying.

The use of Galileo signals, with the larger bandwidth and different carrier frequencies, will significantly improve the precision of mapping. EGNOS will help in improving the vertical accuracy of the positioning solution of the UAV.

Using Galileo satellite signals and UAVs, accurate, cost-efficient soil moisture maps will be produced with a high spatial resolution and flexibility in time: one can fly Mistrale immediately when there is a need to probe the soil humidity conditions.  The Mistrale solution is very agile compared to other mapping techniques and can be used where ever information about soil moisture is necessary, including agricultural fields, flooded areas and natural reservations, to name just a few.

Watch This: Mistrale at the European Space Expo in Milan

The Mistrale project will run for three years. The project will move to the UAV stage within the next two and a half years, as Galileo-based solution offer farmers more precise and faster measurements than available with current sensors or Earth Observation data.

“When you look at a field, you have to look at the differences in soil and height, and also at the crop,” Verschoore says. It is not easy to install a soil sensor. If it was placed next to a potato plant, or another plant that uses a lot of water, the soil could seem dry when just a few feet away it’s much moister. “You need to measure the whole field, and by using the Galileo system you can quickly obtain a high resolution moisture map of your field” he says.

A Group Effort

The Mistrale project brings together a number of European partners. STARLAB provides the front end and the algorithms for the GNSS-R instrument, while M3Systems delivers the back end and implements EGNOS for GNSS integrity for the UAS navigation. GET analyses user needs and inputs data for scientific processing. L’Avion Jaune does the test flights and demonstrations, and ENAC is developing the UAS. AeroVision is responsible for dissemination and the advisory board.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Mistrale, a project to develop a soil moisture monitoring drone  funded by the GSA under the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, is changing the way European farmers decide on where, when and how much to irrigate. The UAV-mounted sensor produces a detailed map showing the soil moisture differences in an area.

“The population of the world is growing by two billion people,” says Jeroen Verschoore, one of the project managers. “To feed this increasing population requires higher yields. One way is to increase production is to improve the water supply since irrigated crops have a two times higher yield than non-irrigated crops. Adequate soil moisture mapping is a relevant tool to understand the different water needs in different corners of the field.”

Mistrale uses GNSS Reflectometry to create soil moisture maps for farmers and decision makers on water boards and in nature management. The project started in March 2015, and the first test flight was completed in early August. For this test flight a manned aircraft was filled with extensive equipment. Verschoore says this will be downsized and in the future Mistrale will be able to conduct surveys using UAVs.

Also Read: Precision Agriculture Helps Feed Earth’s Growing Population

Currently, an antenna on top of the plane registers the signals of Galileo satellites (on top of GPS and GLONASS ones), measuring their signal’s strength and position. Another antenna located on the bottom of the plane measures the reflected signal, with the characteristics of the reflections revealing the amount of moisture in the soil. “We use GNSS for multiple purposes,” explains Verschoore. “For example, we use EGNOS and, in the future the Galileo signal, both to navigate and for the remote sensing of soil moisture.” 

The second part of the project involves computing a detailed map of the field depicting the areas of different moisture levels via a user-friendly interface. The objective is to extract soil-moisture data and quickly deliver the corresponding map to a farmer or reservoir manager within an hour. Verschoore stresses the importance of this time element: “When you are talking about irrigation you have to be quick,” he says. “When a farmer thinks the soil is dry, he wants to be able to easily measure and find an immediate solution.”

The European GNSS Advantage

MISTRALE uses European GNSS data for both navigating the UAV and for measuring the soil moisture underneath the area it is flying.

The use of Galileo signals, with the larger bandwidth and different carrier frequencies, will significantly improve the precision of mapping. EGNOS will help in improving the vertical accuracy of the positioning solution of the UAV.

Using Galileo satellite signals and UAVs, accurate, cost-efficient soil moisture maps will be produced with a high spatial resolution and flexibility in time: one can fly Mistrale immediately when there is a need to probe the soil humidity conditions.  The Mistrale solution is very agile compared to other mapping techniques and can be used where ever information about soil moisture is necessary, including agricultural fields, flooded areas and natural reservations, to name just a few.

Watch This: Mistrale at the European Space Expo in Milan

The Mistrale project will run for three years. The project will move to the UAV stage within the next two and a half years, as Galileo-based solution offer farmers more precise and faster measurements than available with current sensors or Earth Observation data.

“When you look at a field, you have to look at the differences in soil and height, and also at the crop,” Verschoore says. It is not easy to install a soil sensor. If it was placed next to a potato plant, or another plant that uses a lot of water, the soil could seem dry when just a few feet away it’s much moister. “You need to measure the whole field, and by using the Galileo system you can quickly obtain a high resolution moisture map of your field” he says.

A Group Effort

The Mistrale project brings together a number of European partners. STARLAB provides the front end and the algorithms for the GNSS-R instrument, while M3Systems delivers the back end and implements EGNOS for GNSS integrity for the UAS navigation. GET analyses user needs and inputs data for scientific processing. L’Avion Jaune does the test flights and demonstrations, and ENAC is developing the UAS. AeroVision is responsible for dissemination and the advisory board.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The GSA, along with the European Satellite Services Provider (ESSP), have published two new guides aimed at helping the aviation sector, and in particular ANSPs, airports and aircraft operators, take advantage of EGNOS within their operations.

How to get Operational Approval

The first publication serves as a ‘how-to’ guide for obtaining RNP APCH operational approval in Europe. Entitled How to Obtain RNP APCH Operational Approval to LPV Minima in Europe, the publication provides a set of simple guidelines for aircraft operators within the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) area to facilitate operational approval by their national authorities to perform Localizer Performance with Vertical guidance (LPV) operations.

Technically known as RNP Approach procedures down to LPV minima, LPVs were introduced within the PBN concept as new approach operations based on SBAS (EGNOS in Europe), a technology providing augmentation to GNSS systems like GPS. This type of approach allows for ILS lookalike procedures down to a minimum as low as 200 feet without the need to install any ground infrastructure. As of November 2015, there are over 220 LPV procedures published in Europe, with plans for more than 440 by 2018.

Also Read: EGNOS for Aviation Market Report

To take advantage of these procedures, operators typically need specific approval to fly them. For example, European CAT operators must apply for a specific approval (SPA) via their competent authority. This is because LPVs are a relatively new concept that require not only that the aircraft and its cockpit avionics have the corresponding airworthiness approval, but also that pilots have appropriate training, checking standards and operational procedures in place.

Granted, EASA is currently working to amend some of these regulations, eliminating the burden of having to apply for an SPA. However, operators will still be required to put the necessary operational procedures in place and amend their operational manuals accordingly to obtain approval from their authorities – as is the case for other instrument approach procedures.

To help guide you through the approval process, this How To guide provides step-by-step guidance and insight, covering such topics as:

• What are LPV Approach Procedures
• Current Means to Obtain LPV Operational Approval
• Preliminary Certification Requirements
• Operational Procedures and Operational Manual Amendments
• Crew Training and Training Package Update
• Application for Operational Approval
• EU Member State Singularities
• Mid-Term Evolution of European Regulation on PBN

The guide is free and can be downloaded here.

For ANSPs, Airports and Aircraft Operators

On the other side of the equation is the process of actually implementing LPV, for both ANSP/airports and aircraft operators, which is the focus of the second publication. Entitled Guidelines for ANSP/Airports and Aircraft Operators for LPV Implementation, this publication provides a set of generic guidelines for Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs), airport operators and aircraft operators within the ECAC area to facilitate the operational implementation of LPV operations.

Watch This: EGNOS and Aviation

Implementing LPV procedures provides numerous operational benefits. For example, it reduces the trajectory dispersion, thus reducing the flight’s noise footprint and fuel consumption. More so, in some cases LPVs offer straight-in approaches where not otherwise possible when using conventional NPAs, not to mention having the potential to remove the need for circling approaches.

To ensure both airport and aircraft operators are able to take full advantage of these benefits, the Guidelines cover such topics as:

• EGNOS (system description, services, Safety of Life service, etc.)
• RNP APCH Down to LPV Minima within the ICAO Context
• LPV Implementation Drivers
• LPV Implementation Regulatory Framework
• Guidelines for ANSPs and Airports
• Guidelines for Aircraft Operators

The publication is free and can be downloaded here.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The GSA recently joined members of the Dutch General Aviation Community at Lelystad airfield to discuss the safe use of GNSS – including EGNOS – within the context of General Aviation (GA) operations.

According to the GSA, with EGNOS-based approaches and landings, GA will have access to more small and regional airports – such as Lelystad. This is because EGNOS-enabled landings allow for Cat-1 like approaches (RNP APCH down to LPV 200) without the need for the expensive ground infrastructure that many of these small airports simply cannot afford. In other words, when these airports have a published LPV (Localized Performance with Vertical Guidance) procedure, an-aircraft equipped with EGNOS capable avionics and flown by a properly trained pilot can perform a precision approach with a decision height as low as 200 feet – with the entire approach based on GNSS, as opposed to ground-based navigation aids.  

Also Read: EGNOS LPV 200 Enables Safer Aircraft Landings

“RNAV approaches bring a huge benefit to smaller operators and airports,” says presenter Bart Banning of NIN LVNL. “Thanks to its enhanced efficiency and safety, we believe that soon the entire GA community will be using EGNOS-based approaches – and we’re ready to support many more of these approaches starting today.”

The Lelystad event highlighted the use of EGNOS in the Netherlands. Currently, Deventer Teuge (EHTE) has one published procedure and Groningen/Eelde (EHGG) two. The GSA noted that plans are underway to publish an additional seven procedures at four airports over the course of the next two years. These include two at Lelystad (EHLE), one at Maastricht (EHBK), two at Rotterdam (EHRD) and two at Schiphol (EHAM). Once complete, GA pilots operating in the Netherlands will be able to choose from a comprehensive LPV network spread across the country.

Also Read: General Aviation Enthusiastic About EGNOS

Other topics covered during the workshop included Performance Based Navigation (PBN), Area Navigation (RNAV), an array of regulatory aspects and a look at the GSA funded ACCEPTA project. The event, which attracted nearly 100 participants, was jointly organized by the Netherlands Institute for Navigation (NIN), Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and the Royal Dutch Society for Aerospace (KNVvL).

The GSA recently joined members of the Dutch General Aviation Community at Lelystad airfield to discuss the safe use of GNSS – including EGNOS – within the context of General Aviation (GA) operations.

According to the GSA, with EGNOS-based approaches and landings, GA will have access to more small and regional airports – such as Lelystad. This is because EGNOS-enabled landings allow for Cat-1 like approaches (RNP APCH down to LPV 200) without the need for the expensive ground infrastructure that many of these small airports simply cannot afford. In other words, when these airports have a published LPV (Localized Performance with Vertical Guidance) procedure, an-aircraft equipped with EGNOS capable avionics and flown by a properly trained pilot can perform a precision approach with a decision height as low as 200 feet – with the entire approach based on GNSS, as opposed to ground-based navigation aids.  

Also Read: EGNOS LPV 200 Enables Safer Aircraft Landings

“RNAV approaches bring a huge benefit to smaller operators and airports,” says presenter Bart Banning of NIN LVNL. “Thanks to its enhanced efficiency and safety, we believe that soon the entire GA community will be using EGNOS-based approaches – and we’re ready to support many more of these approaches starting today.”

The Lelystad event highlighted the use of EGNOS in the Netherlands. Currently, Deventer Teuge (EHTE) has one published procedure and Groningen/Eelde (EHGG) two. The GSA noted that plans are underway to publish an additional seven procedures at four airports over the course of the next two years. These include two at Lelystad (EHLE), one at Maastricht (EHBK), two at Rotterdam (EHRD) and two at Schiphol (EHAM). Once complete, GA pilots operating in the Netherlands will be able to choose from a comprehensive LPV network spread across the country.

Also Read: General Aviation Enthusiastic About EGNOS

Other topics covered during the workshop included Performance Based Navigation (PBN), Area Navigation (RNAV), an array of regulatory aspects and a look at the GSA funded ACCEPTA project. The event, which attracted nearly 100 participants, was jointly organized by the Netherlands Institute for Navigation (NIN), Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and the Royal Dutch Society for Aerospace (KNVvL).

Discover: EGNOS benefits for General Aviation

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Mark your calendar for the fourth edition of the European Space Solutions conference, 30 May – 3 June 2016 in The Hague, The Netherlands.

The fourth edition of the European Space Solutions conference is set for 30 May through 3 June 2016 in The Hague, The Netherlands. Under the auspices of the 2016 Dutch Presidency of the European Council, this five-day event will highlight how space-based services and technologies are the key to providing the efficient, effective and sustainable services that European society demands.

The conference will bring together leaders and representatives of the public and private sectors from Europe and across the globe, along with users, developers and thought leaders for a wide-array of presentations, panel discussions, workshops and a unique hands-on showcase of innovative space solutions.

Top Five Reasons to Attend

1. Listen to European policy makers discuss how to harness space in tackling Europe’s tough challenges
2. Get inspired by extraordinary speakers from international industry, research and institutional entities.
3. Discover innovative, effective and efficient solutions in the areas of Agriculture and Food, Water, Mobility, Climate Change, Health and Safety, and Energy
4. Meet entrepreneurs, start-ups, industry leaders, space stakeholders, investors, researchers and policy makers and network with more than 2,000 professionals coming from across Europe and beyond.
5. See a showcase of the latest space-based applications in Earth observation, satellite navigation, and European space research

Pre-register Today!

Don’t miss this opportunity for an inside look at the possibilities space applications offer to a wide range of businesses and sectors.

While in The Hague, you can also visit the European Space Expo, which is set to touch down in The Hague’s Old City Centre from 27 May – 5 June. Join the over 900,000 European citizens who have already visited this unique, hands-on showcase of Europe’s space programmes.

More information, preliminary agenda and pre-registration for the European Space Solutions conference is available here. 

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Mark your calendar for the fourth edition of the European Space Solutions conference, 30 May – 3 June 2016 in The Hague, The Netherlands.

The fourth edition of the European Space Solutions conference is set for 30 May through 3 June 2016 in The Hague, The Netherlands. Under the auspices of the 2016 Dutch Presidency of the European Council, this five-day event will highlight how space-based services and technologies are the key to providing the efficient, effective and sustainable services that European society demands.

The conference will bring together leaders and representatives of the public and private sectors from Europe and across the globe, along with users, developers and thought leaders for a wide-array of presentations, panel discussions, workshops and a unique hands-on showcase of innovative space solutions.

Top Five Reasons to Attend

1. Listen to European policy makers discuss how to harness space in tackling Europe’s tough challenges
2. Get inspired by extraordinary speakers from international industry, research and institutional entities.
3. Discover innovative, effective and efficient solutions in the areas of Agriculture and Food, Water, Mobility, Climate Change, Health and Safety, and Energy
4. Meet entrepreneurs, start-ups, industry leaders, space stakeholders, investors, researchers and policy makers and network with more than 2,000 professionals coming from across Europe and beyond.
5. See a showcase of the latest space-based applications in Earth observation, satellite navigation, and European space research

Pre-register Today!

Don’t miss this opportunity for an inside look at the possibilities space applications offer to a wide range of businesses and sectors.

While in The Hague, you can also visit the European Space Expo, which is set to touch down in The Hague’s Old City Centre from 27 May – 5 June. Join the over 900,000 European citizens who have already visited this unique, hands-on showcase of Europe’s space programmes.

More information, preliminary agenda and pre-registration for the European Space Solutions conference is available here. 

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European Commission has published a new release 1.2 of the Galileo Open Service Signal In Space Interface Control Document (OS SIS ICD v1.2). The document provides the information needed by receiver and chipset manufacturers, application developers and service providers to process and make use of the open signals generated by the Galileo satellites.

The OS SIS ICD contains the publicly available information on the Galileo Open Service Signal In Space, specifying the interface between the Galileo space and user segments. The Galileo user segment is of particular interest to the European GNSS Agency (GSA), which has been delegated responsibility for the programme’s service provision by the European Commission. In fulfilment of this role, the GSA is well advanced in developing the European GNSS Service Centre (GSC), which provides the single interface for information and help to users of the Galileo Open Service (OS). Once fully developed, the GSC will operate on a 24/7 basis and offer a range of services, including hosting the Galileo User Helpdesk, providing the interfaces between the Galileo System and OS users and hosting a centre of expertise for OS service aspects. 

The OS SIS ICD is a key document as it provides the information required by receiver and chipset manufacturers, application developers and service providers to be able to process the Open Service signals generated by the Galileo satellites. In particular, the document specifies:

• Galileo signal characteristics
• Characteristics of Galileo spreading codes
• Galileo message structure
• Message data contents

The latest version is based on feedback from receiver manufacturers and other stakeholders received during an extensive public consultation in 2014.

The GSA further highlights the importance of this document for the development of receiver technology, which is the key enabler for translating Galileo signals into useful services. Over the past several years, the GSA has been engaged in open dialogue with chipset and receiver manufacturers, paving the way for Galileo to be fully integrated into a new generation of receivers and ensuring its signals will provide a wide array of new applications and services that directly benefit European citizens.

The Details

In addition to a number of minor editorial improvements including corrections and clarifications, an annex with numerical examples of FEC coding and interleaving has been added and the licence agreement has been revised and simplified. The document now refers to a companion document, "Ionospheric Correction Algorithm for Galileo Single Frequency Users", containing details on the ionospheric model used for Galileo. The E1-B, E1-C and E5 Primary Codes in Annex C are no longer included in the paper version, but are available in the electronic version of the ICD.

The Galileo OS SIS ICD v1.2 document can be downloaded here.

The Ionospheric Correction Algorithm for Galileo Single Frequency Users document can be downloaded here.

Paper copies are available on request by contacting the European Commission grow-galileo@ec.europa.eu.

Related links:

• Galileo Programme Reference Documents
• Video: “Message received: Ensuring that navigation devices are ready for Galileo”
• European Commission Galileo

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

In global terms, the road sector is one of the largest and most dynamic consumer markets, representing a major business opportunity for GNSS technology applications. With a projected 2023 worldwide market for road-vehicle GNSS receivers now estimated at 620 million, the future for EGNOS and GALILEO-related road applications looks promising.

At the same time, steadily increasing road traffic in Europe does have a significant down side, including traffic congestion, accidents and increasing pollution. But GNSS technologies, now standard equipment in cars and other vehicles, are enabling services that respond to all of these issues, from fuel-saving route guidance to electronic toll charging, life-saving applications and ensuring the security of hazardous materials transportation.

Read the Report: GNSS Market Report Road

The Agency is focusing on three key GNSS Road application areas:

1. Safety-critical applications
2. Liability and payment applications
3. Policy-related applications

Safety Critical Applications

“Safety-critical applications leverage precise and secure positioning in situations where humans can come to harm or where systems or the environment could be damaged,” says GSA Market Development Officer Alberto Fernandez-Wyttenbach. As an example, he cites the so-called ‘connected vehicles’. Here, GNSS positioning information provides situational awareness that can be transmitted to other vehicles through vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications, contributing to the safety of the driver.

Watch This: EGNOS for Road

Meanwhile, autonomous vehicles are also rising on the agenda. These vehicles are enabled by a combination of different technologies and sensors that allow the vehicle itself to identify the optimal trajectory. European GNSS will play a key role here by providing relevant inputs for integrated navigation, such as precise vehicle location and speed.

Another key safety-related application is dangerous goods tracking, involving the transmission of GNSS-based positioning data on vehicles carrying such goods, along with other information about the status of the cargo.
Liability, Payment and Policy-Related Applications

“Liability and payment applications generate information of legal or economic significance, based on positioning data,” Fernandez-Wyttenbach says. “For example, under GNSS-based schemes for road-user charging (RUC), operators can charge motorists for the actual distance travelled, without barriers or gantries. And interoperable GNSS-based road charging is much easier to expand and to link with other similar schemes, even across borders.”

Also Read: Progress for Galileo at ASECAP

In a different but related sector, insurance telematics use GNSS data to assess individual driving behaviour. The so-called ‘black boxes’ rely on GNSS data to increase the fairness of motor insurance for both insurers and subscribers..

 “And then there is a set of new applications, which are used to apply the transport policies introduced by national or international legislations”, he explains. As an example he cites the pan-European ‘eCall’ scheme. The scheme involves a GNSS-enabled in-vehicle system that sends a 112 emergency call in the event of an accident, thus accelerating emergency assistance to drivers. When the European Parliament voted in favour of a new eCall regulation last April, Commissioner for Digital Society and Economy Günther H. Oettinger said: “eCall is a perfect example of an EU-supported project that has developed technological solutions to save people's lives.”

Another application the GSA is looking at is digital tachographs. The so-called smart tachographs leverage GNSS positioning to support road enforcers, recording the position of a given vehicle at different points during the working day.

The Next Generation of GNSS Receivers

Newer and higher-performance receivers now set for release will play an important role in safety-critical applications, particularly connected vehicles and autonomous driving. These two applications represent a disruptive and revolutionary innovation and will have to overcome a number of regulatory, economical, technological and social challenges.

For instance, further software development and testing is still needed, security is still an issue, as is public opinion. Liability models must be defined in a way that consumers are convinced to pay a premium for self-driving technologies. Finally, governments still need to define appropriate policies.

Read This: European GNSS Creates Opportunities for Fairer Road Tolling

Right now, the United States seems to move first in this area, being more flexible than Europe in terms of road transportation policy and regulation. The US is also the world leader in automotive sales revenues, and the use of road vehicles is more popular there than in Europe or Asia.

On the other hand, some European countries are making an impressive investment in pilot projects for driverless cars, so Europe is not completely off the radar in this area.

Research and Impact

The European satellite navigation systems Galileo and EGNOS represent important new implements for change in Europe and in the drive to meet key global challenges, including the ever-increasing demand for mobility.

The importance of road transport has not escaped the European Union and is reflected in the proportion of EU research funding set aside for road-related projects. Under the GNSS section of the EU research budget, road projects have been and will continue to be among the most frequently proposed by the R&D industry. The importance of road transport has also been highlighted in the GSA’s GNSS Market Report and in the Agency’s market development strategy.

According to GSA analyses, road transport has also been among the research areas achieving the greatest market impact, in terms of the number of real marketable products or services achieved.

All this points to a solid central position for road-related GNSS, backed by strong support from Europe’s private and public sectors.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) and Galileo Services (GS) recently met to confirm their continued commitment to ensuring the success of both European GNSS programmes and industry. 

The GSA recently met with Galileo Services, who represents the European GNSS downstream industry, to discuss the market uptake of Galileo and EGNOS. The meeting, which took place at GSA Headquarters in Prague on 25 November, reconfirmed the two organisations’ collaboration on Europe’s GNSS programmes.

The focus of the dialog was on a recent GS published position paper entitled “Europe Must Succeed in the Global Navigation Race”. The paper highlights potential plans for increasing the development of the GNSS market in Europe and, in particular, the uptake of Galileo and EGNOS – a task at the core of the GSA’s mission.

“I am pleased to see a convergence of views on many of the actions identified in the paper, including market intelligence and the promotion and support of R&D activities,” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides. “In this direction, the GSA is pleased to see GS members actively involved in Horizon 2020 R&D projects.”

“Galileo Services deeply appreciates the resources and actions coming from the GSA and other European institutions aimed at strengthening European GNSS and its downstream market,” adds GS Chairman Gard Ueland. “However, we need to do more to ensure that European industry can take full advantage of this booming, global market.”

Des Dorides noted that working in close collaboration with industry is a key task for the GSA. In support of this objective, the GSA has published its GNSS Market Report, which serves as an essential tool for understanding the evolution and current state of the global GNSS market.

Likewise, the GS Position Paper aims to serve as a roadmap, outlining a series of crucial steps Europe needs to implement to succeed at achieving its market potential.

Both organisations reconfirmed their commitment to cooperation, both with each other and with other stakeholders, with the ultimate objectives of fostering European GNSS market uptake and promoting the emergence of a dynamic European GNSS downstream sector. 

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) attended Agritechnica – the world’s largest trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment – in Hanover, Germany to discuss and promote the important role that European GNSS plays in precision farming.

Precision agriculture utilises a myriad of different technologies to make farming more efficient, to improve crop yield and reduce environmental impact. GNSS-enabled applications are key to these efforts, from farm machinery guidance using GNSS positioning, to automatic steering, yield monitoring and livestock tracking.

One of the most beneficial uses of GNSS is in yield monitoring, where the output of a yield sensor is combined with the GNSS positioning of the harvester, enabling site-specific monitoring. Soil condition monitoring, allowing farmers to see real-time updates on soil moisture levels, fertility, and diseases, is another area where GNSS applications are extremely useful.

“The role of European GNSS systems, specifically EGNOS and soon Galileo, in agriculture is to decrease costs and increase yields.,” said GSA Market Development Officer Reinhard Blasi, speaking at Agritechnica in Hanover. “Precision agriculture is highly effective, and allows farmers to optimise their fields with less fertiliser, pesticide, fuel, or labour input, so they can reinvest those savings in new equipment or other growth options.”

With a growing world population that needs to be fed, along with increasing climate issues, maximising output while saving resources is more important than ever. The main GNSS application is tractor guidance, which increases efficiency. When used to spray insecticides or in harvesting crops, EGNOS also increases yields and helps provide food supply around the world.

GNSS Applications in the Field

At Agritechnica, several companies demonstrated how they are using satellite navigation on a daily basis. For example, Topcon Precision Agriculture offers five solutions using satellite navigation:

• Control–auto-steering
• Implements–seeding and spraying
• Measuring the colour of green
• Drones (both fixed wing and octocopter)
• Yield Mapping Monitor

Topcon currently uses GPS and Glonass, but is eagerly awaiting Galileo. “The technology comes just in time,” said Julian Rioja, Marketing Manager EAME for Topcon.

Another company benefiting from EGNOS in the field is AGCO. AGCO uses EGNOS technology for precision mapping, field mapping for harvest, and mapping yield. “The EGNOS capability works well in our machinery, and we have had good interactions with the GSA,” said Paul Lay, Manager, Marketing Creative Services and Public Relations. “We’re ready for Galileo.”

Farmnet 365’s Klaus-Herbert Rolf agreed that EGNOS has been working well in the agriculture sector. “One of the biggest success of EGNOS is in the agriculture industry,” he said, citing food traceability as one area of particular success. 365 Farmnet’s technology currently saves 5% of working time for farmers, and saves 10-15 Euro per hectare. He also noted that the company is business-ready for Galileo, and he hopes the technology is launched soon, with a comprehensive communication strategy for businesses, in order to develop a complete roadmap and training plan to implement it as seamlessly as possible. 

GSA-Financed Project Takes Home Award

Also at Agritechnica, the CLAAS Group was awarded a silver medal for its CLAAS field route optimisation system, which optimises working passes for every field and accurately forecasts the processing time required. The solution, which results in an average cost reduction of 6%, was financed by the GSA FP7 project GEOPAL.
“This represents a tremendous potential, seeing that we have about 13 million farms in Europe,” said Christian Radons, Senior Manager Precision Farming at CLAAS Global. “We greatly appreciate the joint efforts from the GSA, and we are proud to have a great sellable product in the market.”

Anticipating Galileo

The GSA is eager to see how Galileo will enhance precision farming even further once utilised by agriculture companies. Both now and in the future, GNSS-enabled applications are a cost-effective solution to make farming more efficient, increase crop yield, and reduce the environmental impact of farming.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) attended Agritechnica – the world’s largest trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment – in Hanover, Germany to discuss and promote the important role that European GNSS plays in precision farming.

Precision agriculture utilises a myriad of different technologies to make farming more efficient, to improve crop yield and reduce environmental impact. GNSS-enabled applications are key to these efforts, from farm machinery guidance using GNSS positioning, to automatic steering, yield monitoring and livestock tracking.

One of the most beneficial uses of GNSS is in yield monitoring, where the output of a yield sensor is combined with the GNSS positioning of the harvester, enabling site-specific monitoring. Soil condition monitoring, allowing farmers to see real-time updates on soil moisture levels, fertility, and diseases, is another area where GNSS applications are extremely useful.

“The role of European GNSS systems, specifically EGNOS and soon Galileo, in agriculture is to decrease costs and increase yields.,” said GSA Market Development Officer Reinhard Blasi, speaking at Agritechnica in Hanover. “Precision agriculture is highly effective, and allows farmers to optimise their fields with less fertiliser, pesticide, fuel, or labour input, so they can reinvest those savings in new equipment or other growth options.”

With a growing world population that needs to be fed, along with increasing climate issues, maximising output while saving resources is more important than ever. The main GNSS application is tractor guidance, which increases efficiency. When used to spray insecticides or in harvesting crops, EGNOS also increases yields and helps provide food supply around the world.

GNSS Applications in the Field

At Agritechnica, several companies demonstrated how they are using satellite navigation on a daily basis. For example, Topcon Precision Agriculture offers five solutions using satellite navigation:

• Control–auto-steering
• Implements–seeding and spraying
• Measuring the colour of green
• Drones (both fixed wing and octocopter)
• Yield Mapping Monitor

Topcon currently uses GPS and Glonass, but is eagerly awaiting Galileo. “The technology comes just in time,” said Julian Rioja, Marketing Manager EAME for Topcon.

Another company benefiting from EGNOS in the field is AGCO. AGCO uses EGNOS technology for precision mapping, field mapping for harvest, and mapping yield. “The EGNOS capability works well in our machinery, and we have had good interactions with the GSA,” said Paul Lay, Manager, Marketing Creative Services and Public Relations. “We’re ready for Galileo.”

Farmnet 365’s Klaus-Herbert Rolf agreed that EGNOS has been working well in the agriculture sector. “One of the biggest success of EGNOS is in the agriculture industry,” he said, citing food traceability as one area of particular success. 365 Farmnet’s technology currently saves 5% of working time for farmers, and saves 10-15 Euro per hectare. He also noted that the company is business-ready for Galileo, and he hopes the technology is launched soon, with a comprehensive communication strategy for businesses, in order to develop a complete roadmap and training plan to implement it as seamlessly as possible. 

GSA-Financed Project Takes Home Award

Also at Agritechnica, the CLAAS Group was awarded a silver medal for its CLAAS field route optimisation system, which optimises working passes for every field and accurately forecasts the processing time required. The solution, which results in an average cost reduction of 6%, was financed by the GSA FP7 project GEOPAL.
“This represents a tremendous potential, seeing that we have about 13 million farms in Europe,” said Christian Radons, Senior Manager Precision Farming at CLAAS Global. “We greatly appreciate the joint efforts from the GSA, and we are proud to have a great sellable product in the market.”

Anticipating Galileo

The GSA is eager to see how Galileo will enhance precision farming even further once utilised by agriculture companies. Both now and in the future, GNSS-enabled applications are a cost-effective solution to make farming more efficient, increase crop yield, and reduce the environmental impact of farming.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency together with ESSP demonstrates the improved accuracy of EGNOS at the annual ESRI user’s conference in Spain. 

The GSA, along with the European Satellite Services Provider (ESSP), recently presented success stories on EGNOS and ArcGIS at this year’s Conferencia ESRI España, the annual Environmental Systems Research Institute user’s conference in this country.

The Environmental Systems Research Institute (+ESRI) is an international supplier of GIS (Geographic Information System) software, web GIS, and geodatabase management application, holding about 40-percent of the global market share. At the conference, the GSA was able to demonstrate how EGNOS’ architecture and services work in real mapping situations.

Using the Barcelona Port Cartographic Institute measurement campaign as an example, the Agency together with ESRI showed how EGNOS improves GPS accuracy. Surveys of ports and harbours cover a range of topographic elevations and hydrographic depths to assess the condition of navigation channels. These assessments help quantify and determine dredging requirements, and the conditions of navigation structures such as jetties, breakwaters, and the adjacent shoreline.

The Barcelona Port Cartographic Institute wanted to check if EGNOS could fulfil the requirements put in place by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) to perform bathymetries. Typically, the data used to make bathymetric maps comes from an echo sounder mounted under or on the side of a boat, which ‘pings’ a beam of sound towards the seafloor. Next, a GNSS system positions the soundings with respect to the surface of the earth.

In this example, data was collected from an EGNOS compatible Leica GNSS system. After analysing the data collected using EGNOS, analysts found that the service accomplished the requirements of Surveys 1a (waters more than 40 meters deep), 1b, and 2, according to the IHO, in offshore bathymetrics.

The GSA, ESSP and ESRI also presented a case study from the beach of El Prat, a zone of high interest due to its constantly changing coastline – a result of dumping sand. The data accuracy of measurements collected from GPS and EGNOS signals were compared, using ZenoCollector, a solution from Leica Geosystems. ZenoCollector combines a high-accuracy data collection Zeno 20 device with another tool, the Collector for ArcGIS. The latter system allows data to be automatically synced online, where multiple people can view it instantly.

Results of both projects showed that EGNOS considerably improves GPS accuracy for free. For municipalities and organisations hoping to obtain more accurate results, all that is needed is an EGNOS-compatible requirement, and the vast majority are so. What was clearly demonstrated at the conference was the ease, benefits and cost-effectiveness of EGNOS for GIS.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

To highlight the essential role GNSS plays in the developing area of the Internet of Things, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) recently participated in four global events on the topic.

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a major development in the role of the Internet: the interconnectivity of uniquely identifiable devices. Beyond improving productivity and efficiency of organizations, IoT solutions are opening a new set of applications in almost every sector of the economy.  The IoT network can connect anything ranging from personal cell phones, tablets and PCs to smart roads, smart shelf signage and smart appliances.

While GNSS is integral to the Internet of Things, its role is often downplayed as an element within smart applications. To raise awareness of its role and to ensure that European GNSS programmes will be considered as important players in this potentially massive global market, the GSA recently took a closer look at the market trends surrounding the Internet of Things. 

The Essential Role of GNSS

At World Smart Week, an annual event dedicated to smart, connected services and innovation, the GSA took part in a panel discussion entitled ‘Geo-Location, the Beating Heart of IoT’. The discussion highlighted how location based services and timing information, using GNSS, will become increasingly important for IoT applications. For example, the improved accuracy and overall performance created by multi-constellation systems means GNSS will move from being a sensor to actually controlling the ‘things’, including UAVs and connected cars.

In Prague, at the IOT Forum, over 200 representatives of Czech companies gathered to discuss the role of IoT in industry. The GSA joined Vodafone, EMC, BMW, IDC, Robodrone and others for a panel discussion on the evolution of IoT. Specifically, the GSA explained how the technology enabling IoT relies heavily on sensors that connect the physical and digital worlds. As such, Galileo sensors will play an important role in providing valuable information on location, velocity and time.

At the TechUK Satellite Applications and Services Conference, the focus was on how new developments in satellite technology are expanding the scope of applications. New developments in satellite technology are finding applications not only in the traditional sectors of broadcasting, communications, navigation, earth observation and defence, but across the wider economy, including transport and healthcare. Speaking at the conference, the GSA stressed that European GNSS is an enabler of IoT, pointing to the ITS sector as an example where Galileo will provide better positioning accuracy and signal authentication.

Last but not least, at a seminar hosted by GNSS.asia in Taipei entitled ‘Smart X: When GNSS Meets the Internet of Things”, the GSA joined a variety of institutional and industrial experts from the EU and Taiwan. The event was an excellent opportunity to build a solid team of EU and Asian industrial professionals and GNSS experts, the GNSS.asia project seeks to develop relationships, networking opportunities, and increased visibility to Asian markets.

The Message is Clear

From these various events – across sectors and countries - the message is clear: European GNSS provides a level of reliability, precision and robustness that can help expand the Internet of Things and its benefits throughout the EU and beyond. By allowing for the development of new applications, in addition to the improvement of existing applications, European GNSS will provide new avenues of economic opportunity to EU countries, businesses and citizens via IoT.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

GSA Administrative Board unanimously votes to keep Carlo des Dorides at the helm of Europe’s satellite navigation agency for another four years.  

Carlo des Dorides has been re-elected as the Executive Director of the European GNSS Agency (GSA), following a unanimous vote from the GSA Administrative Board held on 30 October. The Board, comprised of representatives of the 28 EU Member States, elected des Dorides to a second four-year term on 29 October 2015. Per EU Regulation 512/2014, each EU member state has one vote, with four votes given to the European Commission.

“My election has a special significance this time. I was first elected following a one-hour interview by the GSA Administrative Board, but this time it was after five years of performance,” says des Dorides. “The next four years will put into practice all that we have been preparing for over the past five years. In 2017, for example, the Agency will be responsible for the service and operations of Galileo as well as EGNOS, where we have been in charge since 2014.”

As Executive Director, des Dorides sets the vision and goals for the GSA. Specifically, he is charged with ensuring the Agency accomplishes its mission of supporting the effective operation, maintenance and security of Europe’s satellite navigation systems, while guaranteeing optimal service levels and developing applications and services that ensure satellite technology benefits end users.

During his first term, des Dorides was focused on building an organisation that will focus on achieving the greatest return on investment for the Europe’s satellite navigation programmes – a goal he will continue to work toward in his second term.

A Space Orientated Career Path

For the past three decades des Dorides has been managing space service teams. In his role prior to Executive Director of the GSA, he held a management role at the European Commission, and was responsible for the definition of the Galileo/EGNOS exploitation phases.

Previously, he led the Concession Department at the European GNSS Supervisory Authority, and served as Chief Negotiator of the Galileo Public-Private-Partnership/Concession contract at the Galileo Joint Undertaking. This in-depth understanding of Galileo and EGNOS, as well as a career in management, helped him excel in his first term as Executive Director.

From a young age, des Dorides was interested in advanced satellite system management. After obtaining a degree in engineering from the University of Rome, he went on to achieve an M.B.A. from CUOA, Vicenza, Italy, and obtained additional education at the International Space University in Toulouse, France. From there, he worked in management in the aerospace sector, including a position as Head of Advanced Telecommunication Programmes and Programme Manager for major satellite telecommunication projects at Alenia Spazio. Later, he served as Director of Programmes and Engineering at ENAV, the Italian air navigation service provider.

Looking Ahead

Today, des Dorides enters a second term as GSA Executive Director in the midst of an exciting time for the GNSS market. There are currently more than 4 billion devices using GNSS services, and that number is expected to triple by 2023. The sector is estimated to grow at more than 8% each year until at least 2019. With all the potential for GNSS – and in particular European GNSS – in the coming four years, the GSA is looking forward to having des Dorides again at the forefront of Europe’s satellite navigation systems.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

GSA Administrative Board unanimously votes to keep Carlo des Dorides at the helm of Europe’s satellite navigation agency for another four years.  

Carlo des Dorides has been re-elected as the Executive Director of the European GNSS Agency (GSA), following a unanimous vote from the GSA Administrative Board held on 30 October. The Board, comprised of representatives of the 28 EU Member States, elected des Dorides to a second four-year term on 29 November 2015. Per EU Regulation 512/2014, each EU member state has one vote, with four votes given to the European Commission.

“My election has a special significance this time. I was first elected following a one-hour interview by the GSA Administrative Board, but this time it was after five years of performance,” says des Dorides. “The next four years will put into practice all that we have been preparing for over the past five years. In 2017, for example, the Agency will be responsible for the service and operations of Galileo as well as EGNOS, where we have been in charge since 2014.”

As Executive Director, des Dorides sets the vision and goals for the GSA. Specifically, he is charged with ensuring the Agency accomplishes its mission of supporting the effective operation, maintenance and security of Europe’s satellite navigation systems, while guaranteeing optimal service levels and developing applications and services that ensure satellite technology benefits end users.

During his first term, des Dorides was focused on building an organisation that will focus on achieving the greatest return on investment for the Europe’s satellite navigation programmes – a goal he will continue to work toward in his second term.

A Space Orientated Career Path

For the past three decades des Dorides has been managing space service teams. In his role prior to Executive Director of the GSA, he held a management role at the European Commission, and was responsible for the definition of the Galileo/EGNOS exploitation phases.

Previously, he led the Concession Department at the European GNSS Supervisory Authority, and served as Chief Negotiator of the Galileo Public-Private-Partnership/Concession contract at the Galileo Joint Undertaking. This in-depth understanding of Galileo and EGNOS, as well as a career in management, helped him excel in his first term as Executive Director.

From a young age, des Dorides was interested in advanced satellite system management. After obtaining a degree in engineering from the University of Rome, he went on to achieve an M.B.A. from CUOA, Vicenza, Italy, and obtained additional education at the International Space University in Toulouse, France. From there, he worked in management in the aerospace sector, including a position as Head of Advanced Telecommunication Programmes and Programme Manager for major satellite telecommunication projects at Alenia Spazio. Later, he served as Director of Programmes and Engineering at ENAV, the Italian air navigation service provider.

Looking Ahead

Today, des Dorides enters a second term as GSA Executive Director in the midst of an exciting time for the GNSS market. There are currently more than 4 billion devices using GNSS services, and that number is expected to triple by 2023. The sector is estimated to grow at more than 8% each year until at least 2019. With all the potential for GNSS – and in particular European GNSS – in the coming four years, the GSA is looking forward to having des Dorides again at the forefront of Europe’s satellite navigation systems.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

Maritime use of GNSS goes far beyond navigation at sea to include applications for search and rescue, inland waterways, environmental protection and sailing.

The maritime industry was quick to adopt satellite navigation, and an estimated 87% of merchant shipping already uses global satellite systems for navigation and positioning. About 90% of world trade is carried by sea, and shipping accounts for around 40% of trade between EU-28 countries.

More so, there are more than 50,000 merchant ships over 500 GRT (gross registered tons) trading internationally. And, every year, some 400 million passengers use European ports. With larger ships costing over EUR 100 million to build and cargoes on very large crude carriers (VLCCs) worth over EUR 200 million, the stakes for security, safety and efficiency are high.

As a result, there is now rapidly growing interest in the huge potential of GNSS for leisure craft users, coastal navigation, search and rescue operations and navigation on inland waterways - especially in conjunction with a space-based augmentation system (SBAS) like the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS).

These are some of the forecasts contained in the latest edition of the GSA GNSS Market Report.

Multiple constellations and the challenges of accuracy and resilience

GNSS has radically changed maritime navigation, whether on board the largest super-tankers and container ships, which often have two or more receivers for redundancy, or on small leisure craft using inexpensive handsets. In fact, GNSS has become the main source of position and timing information for the integrated Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) that are used on merchant ships.

However, the widespread uptake of GNSS for commercial shipping has raised the need for common standards for performance, reliability and resilience across and within constellations. With the susceptibility of the GNSS signal to interruptions in the availability of any given constellation, the ability of receivers to process signals from more than one constellation is obviously an advantage.

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) recognises the core GNSS constellations as part of the World Wide Radio Navigation System (WWRNS), and Galileo is currently pending approval. Galileo dual frequency receivers will be compliant with the accuracy levels required for navigation in ocean and coastal waters, harbour entrances and harbour approaches - with a Horizontal Navigation System Error of less than 10 metres, with a probability of 95%.

The GNSS signal is also vulnerable to interference (whether natural, because of reflections and canyons caused by port infrastructure and other shipping, or deliberate jamming and spoofing), emphasizing the need for shipping to integrate a complementary back-up navigation system. IMO is developing multisystem performance standards for ship-borne receivers, and the need to integrate the different available and future satellite navigation systems, as well as terrestrial systems (such as e-Loran) and augmentation systems (like DGPS or SBAS).

The IMO eNavigation Strategy Implementation Plan (SIP), which was approved by its Maritime Safety Committee in November 2014, is looking to optimize the integration of these complementary sources of PNT data with standards for an ergonomic, resilient and reliable common bridge display.

Coastal navigation, port approaches and inland waterways

GNSS is much more than a source of globally accessible PNT information for mariners in the open sea. When combined with SBAS, GNSS can provide accurate and reliable positioning, not just for ocean navigation, but also in port approaches, inland waterways and restricted waters. The signal can be used both on board and by shore-based VTS to assist port operations, traffic management and collision avoidance. SBAS-enabled GNSS is also commonly used in conjunction with DGPS and RTK in Portable Pilot Units (PPUs) to bring even the largest VLCCs and container vessels from deep draught channels at sea, all the way to berth.

GNSS is one of the key sources of position information for Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponders, which exchange information with nearby ships and land-based vessel traffic services (VTS) on a vessel’s position, course and speed. AIS is mandatory on international shipping over 300 GRT, all cargo ships over 500 GRT, all passenger ships as well as fishing vessels over 15 m in length, under IMO regulation 19 of SOLAS Chapter V.
The AIS ground-based infrastructure can also be used to transmit SBAS correction signals, such as EGNOS, as a complementary source of accurate position information to overcome current issues of signal availability on some inland waterways. With around 37,000 km of inland waterways connecting European cities and industrial regions, the potential for increased safety and efficiency is considerable - over 520 million tonnes of freight were carried on EU-27 inland waterways in 2011 and the global inland waterways fleet is estimated at around 529,000 vessels.

Leisure craft, search and rescue

There are an estimated 29.2 million recreational vessels globally. Although they are not required to carry minimum navigational equipment under SOLAS, around 22% do have some form of GNSS receiver on board, many EGNOS-enabled – often without the skipper even knowing it.  According to the latest GSA GNSS Market Report, annual shipments of GNSS receivers for recreational navigation are likely to double from 1.15 million units in 2013, to 2 million units in 2013. Skippers, says the report, like to have technological aids to navigation with them, but often choose hand-held and non-professional devices.

By integrating accurate GNSS position information into distress beacon signals, GNSS is also revolutionising search and rescue (SAR) operations. By 2020, all Cospas-Sarsat Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and Personal Location Beacons (PLBs) are expected to be using precise GNSS positioning, helping to reduce response times and save lives.  In Galileo-enabled beacons, the Galileo return link service will reassure the navigator that the signal has been received and that help is on its way.

Surveillance and environmental protection

Combined with SBAS, GNSS can be used to monitor and protect environmentally vulnerable areas, such as marine parks, and to monitor and prevent illegal fishing. Around 5 million tonnes of fish are caught each year by the EU fleet of 87,500 fishing vessels. As a result of legislation under the EU Common Fisheries Policy, some 9,000 fishing vessels in the European fleet are now fitted with GNSS-enabled vessel monitoring system (VTM) devices, alongside mandatory AIS transponders. These complementary systems allow a close watch to be kept on illegal fishing.

SBAS-enabled GNSS is also enabling vessel traffic services to play a greater role in offering navigational assistance in confined waters and to help improve efficiency of port operations. And SBAS-enabled GNSS can be used to track containers in busy terminals, such as the port of Antwerp, where a joint initiative with Septentrio uses EGNOS, with specially developed firmware linked to yard-management software.  Tracking containers from pick-up to drop-off the EGNOS-enabled Septentrio system can even remotely control the straddle carriers and gantry cranes, greatly improving efficiency.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) recently participated in the Satellite Masters Conference in Berlin, where it joined the discussions on Big Data, innovative applications, and the convergence of Earth Observation and GNSS.

The latest edition of the Satellite Masters Conference took place in Berlin from 20 – 22 October, including the annual Awards Ceremony for the European Satellite Navigation Competition (ESNC), the Copernicus Masters and a portfolio of conference sessions covering Earth Observation (EO) and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). Major themes were Big Data, how to accelerate the development and realisation of innovative applications in the market, and the convergence of EO and GNSS.

Dorothee Bär of the German Federal Ministry for Transport and Digital Infrastructure, the host of the conference, set the tone during the Opening Session by highlighting how navigation and earth observation are key instruments of the digital age. Specifically, Bär sees a need to focus on downstream applications, which serve as the essential link between space technology and digital infrastructure on the ground – which is exactly where the GSA comes in.

EGNOS and Galileo Pave the Future

According to GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides, 2015 has been a busy year for Galileo, with successful launches and progress in the ground segment targeting the intermediate milestone of the launch of initial services in 2016. He also noted the excellent performance of EGNOS, which will soon enjoy enlarged coverage.

In particular, he highlighted the launch of LPV 200 capability in the aviation sector, which is already proving to be a major benefit in Europe and beyond. He also cited the concepts of smart cities, multi-modal logistics and the Internet of Things. “By 2020 it is anticipated that at least 50 billion ‘objects’ will be connected to the Internet,” he said. “Many of these will require positioning data services and applications.”

Matthias Petschke, Director of European Satellite Navigation Programmes at the European Commission, added that 6-7% of European GDP depends on the use of E-GNSS. Increasing the resiliency of these critical infrastructures would make a big difference, and Galileo will help. He also praised EGNOS, which he hailed as a true success story that was already making a huge difference in, for example, precision agriculture and civil aviation.

The European Commission’s Christoph Kautz gave an update on the two European GNSS programmes. As to Galileo, satellite launches are back on course, the ground infrastructure is expanding and the exploitation phase is now in sight with the target of 2017 and initial services in 2016. He also highlighted the decision to fund the next generation of EGNOS (V3) and extension of the service towards wide scale maritime and rail applications. He further discussed the European research and development funding for GNSS under the Horizon 2020 programme, along with the fundamental elements programme that aims to develop the chipsets and receivers Galileo needs to be in the market. In 2016, the Commission is looking to speed up market uptake through a variety of initiatives, and will also be looking to define strategic goals for the 2nd generation of satellites.

Hot Topics

Throughout the course of the conference, various panel discussions were held on an array of hot topics in the field of satellite navigation and earth observation. On the topic of Big Data, session moderator Jurry de la Mar of T-Systems said the world was experiencing a sensor revolution and managing all the data is proving a major challenge. “The data coming from EO operations over the next three years will be larger than the total collected by ESA in the last 30 years,” he said. “The key is to bring the user to the data, rather than data to the user, and for users to understand the semantics of the data. Handling this amount of data cannot be managed manually.”

One solution to the data overload is what Dr Manfred Krischke of CloudEO AG calls “geo-collaboration”. “Location based services are a key element of the sharing economy, enabling access to unused resources and saving costs,” he said. “Businesses should stop looking for the next killer app and start to make small apps that can be integrated with others via the geo-collaboration platform the cloud offers.”

Turning to Smart Cities, Stuart Martin of the UK’s Catapult Satellite Application declared it was the “Century of the City”. “The use of space data, along with GNSS, can have a massive impact on the development of Smarter Cities,” he said.

GNSS can also play an important role in creating Sustainable Solutions to Global Change. One example comes from the ESNC winner of Baden-Württemberg Challenge: ICARUS. ICARUS is a new global tracking service for small objects – birds and animals. Its aim is to monitor global migration, predict zoonotic diseases transmission and enhance climate modelling through a distributed animal-borne global sensor effort. Another example comes from the winner of the ESNC - The Netherlands Challenge and the University Challenge Special Prize, which uses GNSS monitoring of potential rain clouds over East Africa via low-cost receivers. The TAMHO project produces high resolution water vapour maps from GNSS signals that travel slightly slower through moist air. Low-cost receivers can measure this delay.

UAVs, or drones – always a hot topic at any GNSS event – was also discussed in Berlin. The panel highlighted two ESNC winners, including the overall Galileo Master Winner and also winner of the ESNC Valencian Community Challenge: POSEIDRON, a UAV for search and rescue and environmental defence using EGNOS and the Galileo SAR signal. Enrique JM Asensi saw applications in the current migrant crisis, as the vehicle can deploy a 70kg life raft, is 15 times cheaper than a helicopter and can be deployed in all conditions. The winning idea behind the ESNC - Switzerland Challenge and ESA Special Prize – RTKNAV – was described by Zhenzhong Su as a low cost, compact, real-time centimetre accuracy navigation solution. Its target market is high precision agriculture apps, UAVs, mobility, sport and health applications. “RTKNAV provids affordable, high precision for the mass market,” said Su.

Safety and security are two important topics to the Galileo programme, and the Disaster and Security session focused on Galileo for Security Search and Rescue opportunities. Kai Herrmann from the German Competent PRS Authority sees PRS as the EU’s strategic answer to the security challenges of our digital society. Specifically, he sees applications in secure services for emergency services and critical infrastructure as well as access control, spoof resistance and contributions to data security and data privacy, local authentication and traffic management applications.

An example of one of these applications came from Prof Mattia Giovanni Crespi from the University of Rome 'La Sapienza' and Dr Gabriele Colosimo from Leica Geosystems, who described the VADASE project that uses real-time monitoring of GNSS signals from a standalone receiver to monitor seismic events in real time. The idea won the 2010 ESNC DLR special prize, and Leica Geosystems launched the product this year with a VADASE engine able to compute seismic displacements in real time autonomously.

Another example came from Jukka Talvi, who described the HALI initiative from the northern Finnish city of Oulu, which won the ESNC - BMVI / BMWi Special Prize for its system that speeds emergency vehicles through green lights and has dramatically improved response times and safety. The system is currently being extended to the rest of Finland and perhaps the rest of Europe.

Media note: This feature can be republished without charge provided the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is acknowledged as the source at the top or the bottom of the story. You must request permission before you use any of the photographs on the site. If you republish, we would be grateful if you could link back to the GSA website (http://www.gsa.europa.eu).

The European GNSS Agency (GSA) recently participated in the Satellite Masters Conference in Berlin, where it joined the discussions on Big Data, innovative applications, and the convergence of Earth Observation and GNSS.

The latest edition of the Satellite Masters Conference took place in Berlin from 20 – 22 October, including the annual Awards Ceremony for the European Satellite Navigation Competition (ESNC), the Copernicus Masters and a portfolio of conference sessions covering Earth Observation (EO) and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). Major themes were Big Data, how to accelerate the development and realisation of innovative applications in the market, and the convergence of EO and GNSS.

Dorothee Bär of the German Federal Ministry for Transport and Digital Infrastructure, the host of the conference, set the tone during the Opening Session by highlighting how navigation and earth observation are key instruments of the digital age. Specifically, Bär sees a need to focus on downstream applications, which serve as the essential link between space technology and digital infrastructure on the ground – which is exactly where the GSA comes in.

EGNOS and Galileo Pave the Future

According to GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides, 2015 has been a busy year for Galileo, with successful launches and progress in the ground segment targeting the intermediate milestone of the launch of initial services in 2016. He also noted the excellent performance of EGNOS, which will soon enjoy enlarged coverage.

In particular, he highlighted the launch of LPV 200 capability in the aviation sector, which is already proving to be a major benefit in Europe and beyond. He also cited the concepts of smart cities, multi-modal logistics and the Internet of Things. “By 2020 it is anticipated that at least 50 billion ‘objects’ will be connected to the Internet,” he said. “Many of these will require positioning data services and applications.”

Matthias Petschke, Director of European Satellite Navigation Programmes at the European Commission, added that 6-7% of European GDP depends on the use of E-GNSS. Increasing the resiliency of these critical infrastructures would make a big difference, and Galileo will help. He also praised EGNOS, which he hailed as a true success story that was already making a huge difference in, for example, precision agriculture and civil aviation.

The European Commission’s Christoph Kautz gave an update on the two European GNSS programmes. As to Galileo, satellite launches are back on course, the ground infrastructure is expanding and the exploitation phase is now in sight with the target of 2017 and initial services in 2016. He also highlighted the decision to fund the next generation of EGNOS (V3) and extension of the service towards wide scale maritime and rail applications. He further discussed the European research and development funding for GNSS under the Horizon 2020 programme, along with the fundamental elements programme that aims to develop the chipsets and receivers Galileo needs to be in the market. In 2016, the Commission is looking to speed up market uptake through a variety of initiatives, and will also be looking to define strategic goals for the 2nd generation of satellites.

Hot Topics

Throughout the course of the conference, various panel discussions were held on an array of hot topics in the field of satellite navigation and earth observation. On the topic of Big Data, session moderator Jurry de la Mar of T-Systems said the world was experiencing a sensor revolution and managing all the data is proving a major challenge. “The data coming from EO operations over the next three years will be larger than the total collected by ESA in the last 30 years,” he said. “The key is to bring the user to the data, rather than data to the user, and for users to understand the semantics of the data. Handling this amount of data cannot be managed manually.”

One solution to the data overload is what Dr Manfred Krischke of CloudEO AG calls “geo-collaboration”. “Location based services are a key element of the sharing economy, enabling access to unused resources and saving costs,” he said. “Businesses should stop looking for the next killer app and start to make small apps that can be integrated with others via the geo-collaboration platform the cloud offers.”

Turning to Smart Cities, Stuart Martin of the UK’s Catapult Satellite Application declared it was the “Century of the City”. “The use of space data, along with GNSS, can have a massive impact on the development of Smarter Cities,” he said.

GNSS can also play an important role in creating Sustainable Solutions to Global Change. One example comes from the ESNC winner of Baden-Württemberg Challenge: ICARUS. ICARUS is a new global tracking service for small objects – birds and animals. Its aim is to monitor global migration, predict zoonotic diseases transmission and enhance climate modelling through a distributed animal-borne global sensor effort. Another example comes from the winner of the ESNC - The Netherlands Challenge and the University Challenge Special Prize, which uses GNSS monitoring of potential rain clouds over East Africa via low-cost receivers. The TAMHO project produces high resolution water vapour maps from GNSS signals that travel slightly slower through moist air. Low-cost receivers can measure this delay.

UAVs, or drones – always a hot topic at any GNSS event – was also discussed in Berlin. The panel highlighted two ESNC winners, including the overall Galileo Master Winner and also winner of the ESNC Valencian Community Challenge: POSEIDRON, a UAV for search and rescue and environmental defence using EGNOS and the Galileo SAR signal. Enrique JM Asensi saw applications in the current migrant crisis, as the vehicle can deploy a 70kg life raft, is 15 times cheaper than a helicopter and can be deployed in all conditions. The winning idea behind the ESNC - Switzerland Challenge and ESA Special Prize – RTKNAV – was described by Zhenzhong Su as a low cost, compact, real-time centimetre accuracy navigation solution. Its target market is high precision agriculture apps, UAVs, mobility, sport and health applications. “RTKNAV provids affordable, high precision for the mass market,” said Su.

Safety and security are two important topics to the Galileo programme, and the Disaster and Security session focused on Galileo for Security Search and Rescue opportunities. Kai Herrmann from the German Competent PRS Authority sees PRS as the EU’s strategic answer to the security challenges of our digital society. Specifically, he sees applications in secure services for emergency services and critical infrastructure as well as access control, spoof resistance and contributions to data security and data privacy, local authentication and traffic management applications.

An example of one of these applications came from Prof Mattia Giovanni Crespi from the University of Rome 'La Sapienza' and Dr Gabriele Colosimo from Leica Geosystems, who described the VADASE project that uses real-time monitoring of GNSS signals from a standalone receiver to monitor seismic events in real time. The idea won the 2010 ESNC DLR special prize, and Leica Geosystems launched the product this year with a VADASE engine able to compute seismic displacements in real time autonomously.

Another example came from Jukka Talvi, who described the HALI initiative from the northern Finnish city of Oulu, which won the ESNC - BMVI / BMWi Special Prize for its system that speeds emergency vehicles through green lights and has dramatically improved response times and safety. The system is currently being extended to the rest of Finland and perhaps the rest of Europe.

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