V úterý 21. června byla na Ministerstvu dopravy ČR představena odborné veřejnosti a médiím první česká technologická nanodružice VZLUSAT-1, jejímž úkolem je ověřit nové technologie a výrobky na orbitě Země. Družice byla vyvinuta Výzkumným a zkušebním leteckým ústavem (VZLÚ) ve spolupráci s českými komerčními firmami a českými univerzitami.
Evropská komise pořádá v souvislosti s aktuálně probíhající přípravou „Kosmické strategie pro Evropu“ ve dnech 5. a 6. července 2016 v Bruselu dvoudenní seminář, který bude zaměřen na podporu diskuzí a získání zpětné vazby o aktuálním stavu kosmicky orientovaného trhu tak, jak je vnímána evropským kosmickým průmyslem.
V uplynulém týdnu proběhla aktualizace prostředí ArcGIS Online. Připravili jsme pro vás přehled některých novinek.
Zobrazení podrobností položek se dočkalo nového vzhledu i několika nových funkcí:
Novinky se týkají také mapového prohlížeče. Jedná se zejména o vylepšení práce s časovými daty.
The twin Sentinel-1 satellites have – for the first time – combined to show their capability for revealing even small deformations in Earth’s surface.
Od tohoto čtvrtletí společnost Bentley Systems zavedla změny ve výpočtu počtu užívaných licencí jejich softwaru uživateli s uzavřenou smlouvou Bentley SELECT. Souběžné užívání většího než zakoupeného počtu licencí je na konci čtvrtletí vyhodnocováno jako užití dočasných licencí a tomuto uživateli je automaticky zasílán daňový doklad.
Nejvýznamnější změny:
Vítanou novinkou je, že spuštění softwaru na dobu kratší než 10 minut není považováno za užití softwaru a není následně zahrnováno do výpočtu. To je změna, na kterou čekala i řada uživatelů našeho softwaru, kteří využívají sdílené síťové licencování. Při současném spuštění naší aplikace a softwaru Bentley Systems (MGEO nebo některého z produktů řady SPIDER) může dojít k překročení počtu zakoupených licencí našeho softwaru a nyní má uživatel možnost software vypnout aniž by to bylo započteno do statistik užití softwaru Bentley Systems.
Druhou významnou změnou je zkrácení časového intervalu, ve kterém je vyhodnocováno užívání licencí více uživateli, z jedné hodiny na 10 minut. Tento interval je základní časovou jednotkou pro výpočet. Pokud v rámci tohoto intervalu spustí software dva uživatelé a i když reálně nenastane souběh spuštění softwaru, je užití vyhodnoceno jako užití dvou licencí softwaru. Zkrácení tohoto intervalu je také vítanou změnou, protože přináší možnost využívat software v rámci společnosti mnohem flexibilněji.
A sea-based test is demonstrating the potential of extending satnav augmentation coverage into north polar regions, offering a safety-of-life standard of navigation performance to users including shipping or aircraft in flight.
A sea-based test is demonstrating the potential of extending satnav augmentation coverage into north polar regions, offering a safety-of-life standard of navigation performance to users including shipping or aircraft in flight.
The European GNSS Agency (GSA) announces that Qualcomm Technologies, a US-based leader in 3G, 4G and next-generation wireless technologies, is adding support for Galileo across its product portfolio.
In a major boost for Galileo uptake in the location based services (LBS) market segment, today the GSA announces that US-based Qalcomm Technologies, a world leader in 3G, 4G and next-generation wireless technologies, is adding support for Galileo across its Snapdragon processor and modern portfolios for smartphone, computing and automotive applications. The addition of Galileo to the company’s growing number of location-based applications and services will reduce time-to-first-fix, improve robustness and increase accuracy – particularly in challenging urban environments – ultimately providing the end user with an improved location performance.
“Accurate, reliable, and rapid position location is an important part of the mobile experience,” says Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. Senior Vice President Product Management Alex Katouzian. “Qualcomm Technologies is helping to improve consumers’ experiences with location-based services by adding Galileo support to our IZat location platform and deploying it broadly across our modem and application processor portfolios.”
The Galileo-enhanced Qualcomm IZat Location Platform will enable automotive and telematics solution providers to satisfy an important component of the European eCall mandate ahead of the March 2018 deadline.
“We are happy to announce support for the European Galileo satellite navigation system and to see that longstanding efforts and cooperation between the GSA, the European Commission, Qualcomm Technologies and the mobile ecosystem are delivering a key component of the European Digital Single Market,” says Qualcomm Europe President Enrico Salvatori. “eCall and Galileo, together with upcoming advances in automotive connectivity, pave the way to enhancing road safety and delivering new services to consumers.”
“The Galileo constellation relies on 14 satellites that are in orbit today, and following our cooperation on Galileo integration, we welcome the announcement that Qualcomm Technologies is contributing to the rapid adoption of Galileo, in view of the launch of Initial Services by the end of 2016,” says GSA Executive Director Carlo des Dorides. “The Galileo signal has demonstrated high performance and we believe it will enhance the user experience by providing more accurate and robust positioning”.
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).
Dvě družice Sentinel-1 poprvé ukázaly svoji schopnost odhalit i ty nejmenší deformace zemského povrchu.
Transition to Microsoft Azure Cloud Platform for Crossrail’s Asset Information Management System
LONDON – U.K. Rail Conference – Bentley Systems, Incorporated, a leading global provider of comprehensive software solutions for advancing infrastructure, today announced that it has successfully upgraded Crossrail’s Common Data Environment (CDE) for asset information through Bentley’s AssetWise managed services to a hybrid cloud-computing platform powered by Microsoft Azure. This provides a single location for storing, sharing, and managing information for approximately 1 million assets.
Europe’s largest construction project, Crossrail has been designed in a virtual environment for 3D, 4D, and 5D BIM, powered by Bentley’s comprehensive modeling software. Bentley’s asset information management solution, AssetWise, based on Bentley’s eB technology, manages the engineering and asset information in the Crossrail project and provides a complete, federated view of “digital railway” information.
“Crossrail is leading the world in demonstrating the value of BIM to realize greater efficiency and cost effectiveness in project delivery and asset lifecycle information management,” said Alan Kiraly, SVP, Bentley Systems.
“We’re proud of our work together with Bentley Systems, one of our most important global collaborators,” said David Epp, Alliances Director, Microsoft Corp. “We’re particularly impressed by Crossrail’s groundbreaking ambition in building both a digital and physical railway, and are delighted to have had the opportunity to come together with Bentley to address the challenges and requirements of this world-class endeavor.”
About Crossrail
Crossrail is Europe’s largest construction project with a total funding envelope of £14.8bn. The route will run over 100km from Reading and Heathrow in the west, through new tunnels under London to Shenfield and Abbey Wood in the east. It will bring an additional 1.5 million people within 45 minutes commuting distance of London's key business districts. The Transport for London (TfL) run railway will be named the Elizabeth line when services through central London open in December 2018. The Crossrail project is being delivered by Crossrail Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of TfL, and is jointly sponsored by the Department for Transport and TfL. For additional information about Crossrail, visit http://www.crossrail.co.uk.
About Bentley’s Managed Services
Bentley Systems provides a range of managed services delivery options for its industry-leading project delivery and asset performance solutions through Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform and hybrid computing environments. With Service Level Agreements and Success Plans tailored to business outcomes and project objectives, Bentley Systems offers a deep bench of technology and subject matter experts who take responsibility for getting the most value from BIM advancements, as well as innovative, consumption-based commercial models tied to benefits realized. For information on Bentley’s ISO 27001 and SOC-2 certifications for managed services and cloud offerings, please visit Bentley’s Trust Center at https://www.bentley.com/en/trust-center.
About Bentley Systems
Bentley Systems is a global leader in providing architects, engineers, geospatial professionals, constructors, and owner-operators with comprehensive software solutions for advancing the design, construction, and operations of infrastructure. Bentley users leverage information mobility across disciplines and throughout the infrastructure lifecycle to deliver better-performing projects and assets. Bentley solutions encompass MicroStation applications for information modeling, ProjectWise collaboration services to deliver integrated projects, and AssetWise operations services to achieve intelligent infrastructure – complemented by worldwide professional services and comprehensive managed services.
Founded in 1984, Bentley has more than 3,000 colleagues in over 50 countries, more than $600 million in annual revenues, and since 2008 has invested more than $1 billion in research, development, and acquisitions.
Additional information about Bentley is available at www.bentley.com and in Bentley’s annual report. For Bentley news as it happens, subscribe to an RSS feed of Bentley press releases and news alerts. Visit The Year in Infrastructure Conference website for highlights of Bentley’s premier thought-leadership event. To view a searchable collection of innovative infrastructure projects from the annual Be Inspired Awards, access Bentley’s Infrastructure Yearbooks. To access a professional networking site that enables members of the infrastructure community to connect, communicate, and learn from each other, visit Bentley Communities.
To download the Bentley Infrastructure 500 Top Owners ranking, a unique global compendium of the top public- and private-sector owners of infrastructure based on the value of their cumulative infrastructure investments, visit BI 500.
# # #
Bentley, the “B” Bentley logo, Be, eB, MicroStation, and ProjectWise are either registered or unregistered trademarks or service marks of Bentley Systems, Incorporated or one of its direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiaries. All other brands and product names are trademarks of their respective owners.Kosmonaut ESA Tim Peake, astronaut NASA Tim Kopra a ruský velitel lodi Sojuz Jurij Malenčenko bezpečně přistáli v kazašské stepi. Mezinárodní kosmickou stanici opustili 18. června v 5:52 h GMT, čímž zakončili svůj šestiměsíční pobyt na výzkumné základně.
Na své třetí misi v letošním roce dopravila raketa Ariane 5 do vesmíru více než 10,7 t: dosud nejtěžší komerční náklad.
Na své třetí misi v letošním roce dopravila raketa Ariane 5 do vesmíru více než 10,7 t: dosud nejtěžší komerční náklad.
Pripájam krátku informáciu o našej účasti na konferencii Stretnutie lídrov slovenského poľnohospodárstva 2016, ktoré sa uskutočnilo dňa 14.6.2016 v Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel v Bratislave.
For the second time, the European GNSS Agency is sponsoring a special prize dedicated to Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus as part of the annual Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ Young Surveyors prize.
With a cash prize of EUR 1 000, the 2016 edition of the Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ (CLGE) Young Surveyors prize is now open for submissions. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is sponsoring a special prize for entries that show a dedicated use of Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) or Copernicus. The contest is open to all bachelor and masters students in the surveying sector or a related field.
Submissions must be received no later than 8 August 2016.
Last year’s winning entry came from Laura Van de Vyvere from Liège University and M3 Systems, Belgium, for her project “Cycle Slips Detection in Quad-Frequency Mode: Galileo’s Contribution to an Efficient Approach under High Ionospheric Activity”. Through an innovative technique developed by Van de Vyvere, the project uses Galileo’s high number of carrier frequencies to improve positioning compared to other GNSS programmes.
The GSA and the CLGE have been working together for several years, a cooperation that is likely to grow as the Galileo constellation moves towards initial services later this year. In 2015, in support of this cooperation, the two organisations launched this special prize as part of the CLGE’s annual Young Surveyors prize.
To participate, proposals should include an academic paper describing the project and how it benefits from Galileo, EGNOS or Copernicus (or in combination). Although papers may be an abridged version of a more complete thesis, the paper should describe the project in full, including financial and logistical aspects. Papers should not exceed 4 000 words, including an abstract of 300 words, and must be written in English.
Submissions will be judged by a panel of CLGE delegates representing professional, academic and associated sectors. The winning entry will receive an award worth EUR 1 000 as well as a CLGE certificate during a special ceremony to be held on 11 October 2016 during the INTERGEO event in Hamburg, Germany.
More information can be found here.
Sign up to GSA Today to receive updates on the next contest.
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 second time, the European GNSS Agency is sponsoring a special prize dedicated to Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus as part of the annual Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ Young Surveyors prize.
With a cash prize of EUR 1 000, the 2016 edition of the Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ (CLGE) Young Surveyors prize is now open for submissions. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is sponsoring a special prize for entries that show a dedicated use of Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) or Copernicus. The contest is open to all bachelor and masters students in the surveying sector or a related field.
Submissions must be received no later than 8 August 2016.
Last year’s winning entry came from Laura Van de Vyvere from Liège University and M3 Systems, Belgium, for her project “Cycle Slips Detection in Quad-Frequency Mode: Galileo’s Contribution to an Efficient Approach under High Ionospheric Activity”. Through an innovative technique developed by Van de Vyvere, the project uses Galileo’s high number of carrier frequencies to improve positioning compared to other GNSS programmes.
The GSA and the CLGE have been working together for several years, a cooperation that is likely to grow as the Galileo constellation moves towards initial services later this year. In 2015, in support of this cooperation, the two organisations launched this special prize as part of the CLGE’s annual Young Surveyors prize.
To participate, proposals should include an academic paper describing the project and how it benefits from Galileo, EGNOS or Copernicus (or in combination). Although papers may be an abridged version of a more complete thesis, the paper should describe the project in full, including financial and logistical aspects. Papers should not exceed 4 000 words, including an abstract of 300 words, and must be written in English.
Submissions will be judged by a panel of CLGE delegates representing professional, academic and associated sectors. The winning entry will receive an award worth EUR 1 000 as well as a CLGE certificate during a special ceremony to be held on 11 October 2016 during the INTERGEO event in Hamburg, Germany.
More information can be found here.
Sign up to GSA Today to receive updates on the next contest.
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 second time, the European GNSS Agency is sponsoring a special prize dedicated to Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus as part of the annual Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ Young Surveyors prize.
With a cash prize of EUR 1 000, the 2016 edition of the Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ (CLGE) Young Surveyors prize is now open for submissions. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is sponsoring a special prize for entries that show a dedicated use of Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) or Copernicus. The contest is open to all bachelor and masters students in the surveying sector or a related field.
Submissions must be received no later than 8 August 2016.
Last year’s winning entry came from Laura Van de Vyvere from Liège University and M3 Systems, Belgium, for her project “Cycle Slips Detection in Quad-Frequency Mode: Galileo’s Contribution to an Efficient Approach under High Ionospheric Activity”. Through an innovative technique developed by Van de Vyvere, the project uses Galileo’s high number of carrier frequencies to improve positioning compared to other GNSS programmes.
The GSA and the CLGE have been working together for several years, a cooperation that is likely to grow as the Galileo constellation moves towards initial services later this year. In 2015, in support of this cooperation, the two organisations launched this special prize as part of the CLGE’s annual Young Surveyors prize.
To participate, proposals should include an academic paper describing the project and how it benefits from Galileo, EGNOS or Copernicus (or in combination). Although papers may be an abridged version of a more complete thesis, the paper should describe the project in full, including financial and logistical aspects. Papers should not exceed 4 000 words, including an abstract of 300 words, and must be written in English.
Submissions will be judged by a panel of CLGE delegates representing professional, academic and associated sectors. The winning entry will receive an award worth EUR 1 000 as well as a CLGE certificate during a special ceremony to be held on 11 October 2016 during the INTERGEO event in Hamburg, Germany.
More information can be found here.
Sign up to GSA Today to receive updates on the next contest.
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 second time, the European GNSS Agency is sponsoring a special prize dedicated to Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus as part of the annual Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ Young Surveyors prize.
With a cash prize of EUR 1 000, the 2016 edition of the Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ (CLGE) Young Surveyors prize is now open for submissions. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is sponsoring a special prize for entries that show a dedicated use of Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) or Copernicus. The contest is open to all bachelor and masters students in the surveying sector or a related field.
Submissions must be received no later than 8 August 2016.
Last year’s winning entry came from Laura Van de Vyvere from Liège University and M3 Systems, Belgium, for her project “Cycle Slips Detection in Quad-Frequency Mode: Galileo’s Contribution to an Efficient Approach under High Ionospheric Activity”. Through an innovative technique developed by Van de Vyvere, the project uses Galileo’s high number of carrier frequencies to improve positioning compared to other GNSS programmes.
The GSA and the CLGE have been working together for several years, a cooperation that is likely to grow as the Galileo constellation moves towards initial services later this year. In 2015, in support of this cooperation, the two organisations launched this special prize as part of the CLGE’s annual Young Surveyors prize.
To participate, proposals should include an academic paper describing the project and how it benefits from Galileo, EGNOS or Copernicus (or in combination). Although papers may be an abridged version of a more complete thesis, the paper should describe the project in full, including financial and logistical aspects. Papers should not exceed 4 000 words, including an abstract of 300 words, and must be written in English.
Submissions will be judged by a panel of CLGE delegates representing professional, academic and associated sectors. The winning entry will receive an award worth EUR 1 000 as well as a CLGE certificate during a special ceremony to be held on 11 October 2016 during the INTERGEO event in Hamburg, Germany.
More information can be found here.
Sign up to GSA Today to receive updates on the next contest.
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 second time, the European GNSS Agency is sponsoring a special prize dedicated to Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus as part of the annual Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ Young Surveyors prize.
With a cash prize of EUR 1 000, the 2016 edition of the Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ (CLGE) Young Surveyors prize is now open for submissions. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is sponsoring a special prize for entries that show a dedicated use of Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) or Copernicus. The contest is open to all bachelor and masters students in the surveying sector or a related field.
Submissions must be received no later than 8 August 2016.
Last year’s winning entry came from Laura Van de Vyvere from Liège University and M3 Systems, Belgium, for her project “Cycle Slips Detection in Quad-Frequency Mode: Galileo’s Contribution to an Efficient Approach under High Ionospheric Activity”. Through an innovative technique developed by Van de Vyvere, the project uses Galileo’s high number of carrier frequencies to improve positioning compared to other GNSS programmes.
The GSA and the CLGE have been working together for several years, a cooperation that is likely to grow as the Galileo constellation moves towards initial services later this year. In 2015, in support of this cooperation, the two organisations launched this special prize as part of the CLGE’s annual Young Surveyors prize.
To participate, proposals should include an academic paper describing the project and how it benefits from Galileo, EGNOS or Copernicus (or in combination). Although papers may be an abridged version of a more complete thesis, the paper should describe the project in full, including financial and logistical aspects. Papers should not exceed 4 000 words, including an abstract of 300 words, and must be written in English.
Submissions will be judged by a panel of CLGE delegates representing professional, academic and associated sectors. The winning entry will receive an award worth EUR 1 000 as well as a CLGE certificate during a special ceremony to be held on 11 October 2016 during the INTERGEO event in Hamburg, Germany.
More information can be found here.
Sign up to GSA Today to receive updates on the next contest.
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 second time, the European GNSS Agency is sponsoring a special prize dedicated to Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus as part of the annual Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ Young Surveyors prize.
With a cash prize of EUR 1 000, the 2016 edition of the Council of Geodetic Surveyors’ (CLGE) Young Surveyors prize is now open for submissions. Once again, the European GNSS Agency (GSA) is sponsoring a special prize for entries that show a dedicated use of Galileo, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) or Copernicus. The contest is open to all bachelor and masters students in the surveying sector or a related field.
Submissions must be received no later than 8 August 2016.
Last year’s winning entry came from Laura Van de Vyvere from Liège University and M3 Systems, Belgium, for her project “Cycle Slips Detection in Quad-Frequency Mode: Galileo’s Contribution to an Efficient Approach under High Ionospheric Activity”. Through an innovative technique developed by Van de Vyvere, the project uses Galileo’s high number of carrier frequencies to improve positioning compared to other GNSS programmes.
The GSA and the CLGE have been working together for several years, a cooperation that is likely to grow as the Galileo constellation moves towards initial services later this year. In 2015, in support of this cooperation, the two organisations launched this special prize as part of the CLGE’s annual Young Surveyors prize.
To participate, proposals should include an academic paper describing the project and how it benefits from Galileo, EGNOS or Copernicus (or in combination). Although papers may be an abridged version of a more complete thesis, the paper should describe the project in full, including financial and logistical aspects. Papers should not exceed 4 000 words, including an abstract of 300 words, and must be written in English.
Submissions will be judged by a panel of CLGE delegates representing professional, academic and associated sectors. The winning entry will receive an award worth EUR 1 000 as well as a CLGE certificate during a special ceremony to be held on 11 October 2016 during the INTERGEO event in Hamburg, Germany.
More information can be found here.
Sign up to GSA Today to receive updates on the next contest.
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 took the EASTLOG stage to discuss the important role that EGNOS and Galileo play within the logistics sector.
Speaking at EASTLOG, Central and Eastern Europe’s largest supply chain and logistics tradeshow, the GSA highlighted the important role that EGNOS and Galileo play within the logistics sector.
According to the GSA, in a market that is as demanding and competitive as that of global logistics, space can provide cost-efficient solutions. “Global navigation satellite systems, or GNSS, are becoming increasingly relied upon by many different logistic-orientated applications, including the very popular track and trace applications and such sophisticated services as proof of delivery, geofencing and monitoring the transport of dangerous goods,” says one GSA representative. “Many of these applications and services demand a high level of accuracy and integrity, and in Europe this is provided by EGNOS and Galileo.”
Based on conversations with various logistic stakeholders during the event, it is clear that service providers in this sector are most interested in solutions that offer additional cost savings. Here the GSA highlighted various GNSS-enabled solutions already on the market, including driver advisory systems that provide additional fuel savings and, in the near future, the autonomous vehicle. Of particular interest is the so-called ‘supply chain visibility’ concept, where GNSS, combined with telecommunication technology, is capable of providing an increased level of clarity to the chain of custody and the possibility to geofence transport corridors.
“The possibility of having such authenticated positioning information is very important to the logistics sector, thus the interest in the potential of Galileo to offer even more cost-efficient and reliable positioning continues to grow,” noted one attendee.
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 took the EASTLOG stage to discuss the important role that EGNOS and Galileo play within the logistics sector.
Speaking at EASTLOG, Central and Eastern Europe’s largest supply chain and logistics tradeshow, the GSA highlighted the important role that EGNOS and Galileo play within the logistics sector.
According to the GSA, in a market that is as demanding and competitive as that of global logistics, space can provide cost-efficient solutions. “Global navigation satellite systems, or GNSS, are becoming increasingly relied upon by many different logistic-orientated applications, including the very popular track and trace applications and such sophisticated services as proof of delivery, geofencing and monitoring the transport of dangerous goods,” says one GSA representative. “Many of these applications and services demand a high level of accuracy and integrity, and in Europe this is provided by EGNOS and Galileo.”
Based on conversations with various logistic stakeholders during the event, it is clear that service providers in this sector are most interested in solutions that offer additional cost savings. Here the GSA highlighted various GNSS-enabled solutions already on the market, including driver advisory systems that provide additional fuel savings and, in the near future, the autonomous vehicle. Of particular interest is the so-called ‘supply chain visibility’ concept, where GNSS, combined with telecommunication technology, is capable of providing an increased level of clarity to the chain of custody and the possibility to geofence transport corridors.
“The possibility of having such authenticated positioning information is very important to the logistics sector, thus the interest in the potential of Galileo to offer even more cost-efficient and reliable positioning continues to grow,” noted one attendee.
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 took the EASTLOG stage to discuss the important role that EGNOS and Galileo play within the logistics sector.
Speaking at EASTLOG, Central and Eastern Europe’s largest supply chain and logistics tradeshow, the GSA highlighted the important role that EGNOS and Galileo play within the logistics sector.
According to the GSA, in a market that is as demanding and competitive as that of global logistics, space can provide cost-efficient solutions. “Global navigation satellite systems, or GNSS, are becoming increasingly relied upon by many different logistic-orientated applications, including the very popular track and trace applications and such sophisticated services as proof of delivery, geofencing and monitoring the transport of dangerous goods,” says one GSA representative. “Many of these applications and services demand a high level of accuracy and integrity, and in Europe this is provided by EGNOS and Galileo.”
Based on conversations with various logistic stakeholders during the event, it is clear that service providers in this sector are most interested in solutions that offer additional cost savings. Here the GSA highlighted various GNSS-enabled solutions already on the market, including driver advisory systems that provide additional fuel savings and, in the near future, the autonomous vehicle. Of particular interest is the so-called ‘supply chain visibility’ concept, where GNSS, combined with telecommunication technology, is capable of providing an increased level of clarity to the chain of custody and the possibility to geofence transport corridors.
“The possibility of having such authenticated positioning information is very important to the logistics sector, thus the interest in the potential of Galileo to offer even more cost-efficient and reliable positioning continues to grow,” noted one attendee.
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 took the EASTLOG stage to discuss the important role that EGNOS and Galileo play within the logistics sector.
Speaking at EASTLOG, Central and Eastern Europe’s largest supply chain and logistics tradeshow, the GSA highlighted the important role that EGNOS and Galileo play within the logistics sector.
According to the GSA, in a market that is as demanding and competitive as that of global logistics, space can provide cost-efficient solutions. “Global navigation satellite systems, or GNSS, are becoming increasingly relied upon by many different logistic-orientated applications, including the very popular track and trace applications and such sophisticated services as proof of delivery, geofencing and monitoring the transport of dangerous goods,” says one GSA representative. “Many of these applications and services demand a high level of accuracy and integrity, and in Europe this is provided by EGNOS and Galileo.”
Based on conversations with various logistic stakeholders during the event, it is clear that service providers in this sector are most interested in solutions that offer additional cost savings. Here the GSA highlighted various GNSS-enabled solutions already on the market, including driver advisory systems that provide additional fuel savings and, in the near future, the autonomous vehicle. Of particular interest is the so-called ‘supply chain visibility’ concept, where GNSS, combined with telecommunication technology, is capable of providing an increased level of clarity to the chain of custody and the possibility to geofence transport corridors.
“The possibility of having such authenticated positioning information is very important to the logistics sector, thus the interest in the potential of Galileo to offer even more cost-efficient and reliable positioning continues to grow,” noted one attendee.
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).
One major takeaway from last week’s European Space Solutions conference in The Hague is that satellite navigation and Earth observation data are creating big opportunities for game-changing growth in Europe and beyond.
Opening a dedicated session on the topic of space solutions for business, European GNSS Agency (GSA) Executive Director Carlo des Dorides described how space is bringing effective tools to face the many challenges that business and society are confronting. Under the equation ‘(Space + Innovation) x Entrepreneurship = Growth!’ he noted that “entrepreneurs must not only have a vision, but the capacity to realise their vision, and be keen to take on risks and able to learn from ‘unsuccess’”.
As a case in point on how European space solutions can benefit businesses, he highlighted the role of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) in opening up business opportunities in the aviation sector and beyond. From six airports with operational EGNOS approaches in 2011, there are now over 350 operational EGNOS based procedures in Europe – a number set to double by 2018.
“This innovation ensures that smaller regional airports remain accessible in all weather conditions, increases operational efficiency and boosts tourism and trade,” he says. “This is resulting in major benefits for many airport operators and their regional communities.”
According to des Dorides, EGNOS is the perfect showcase of European innovation, saying that “EGNOS-based operations represent the most significant innovation in European air traffic since the invention of radar.”
Already an estimated 6 % of the global gross domestic product (GDP) depends on space technology. “If Europe gets our space strategy right, we will provide the right opportunities for using this space data for jobs and growth well into the future,” adds European Commission Head of Unit for Galileo and EGNOS Applications Philippe Jean.
Looking at what businesses want to do with space solutions, perhaps Shell Vice-President of Exploration Technology and Chief Scientist Geophysics Dirk Smit summed it up best by saying: “We want to bring space to Earth.” Elaborating on this statement, he notes that in his sector space is already providing solutions to the global energy challenge, including the use of space-based monitoring techniques for geoscience that are helping Shell “turn data into decisions”.
This is especially true when applied to the Earth’s subsurface, which Smit describes as “the last frontier” for exploration. Routine visualisation of the Earth’s subsurface, including the ocean floor for which Shell is sponsoring an Ocean Discovery XPRIZE, is close and, according to Smit, space-borne technology is critical.
So how are business leaders addressing today’s challenges and preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities with space solutions? According to global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver manufacturer ST Microelectronics Director Carlo Bagnoli, all one has to do is look at the transport sector. “After ST pioneered a volume supply of multi-constellation GNSS standalone receivers in 2011, we are now delivering our Teseo third-generation global GNSS solution supporting all existing signals, including Galileo,” he says. “Furthermore, we are developing precise positioning solutions to support new applications in Highly Automated ADAS [Advanced Driver Assist Systems] that match the performance, reliability and cost targets of these new exciting applications.”
In terms of smart cities and autonomous driving, Bagnoli feels that no single technology will drive this business alone. However, he believes that GNSS must be an important part of the technological mix. “This market will be global, dynamic and highly competitive, but will also rely on regulation and standardisation to ensure growth,” he says.
Adding to this role of GNSS in the transport sector, Xerox Tolling Business Senior Manager Peter Depuydt talked about space-based solutions in applications such as public transport, fleet management and route optimisation. According to him, GNSS-based systems have major applications in border control solutions. He also believes that legislation for data safeguards will become increasingly important. “Vehicle tolling systems will generate a huge amount of data that enables efficient traffic management. However the actual tracking guarantees privacy,” he says.
Entrepreneur and self-proclaimed space invader Robert Mica discussed the current investment climate, noting that interest in investing in space-based businesses was changing – and fast. “Venture capital invested more in space start-ups last year than in the previous 15 years,” he says. “Clearly, there is a big shift happening.”
That being said, he also advised that, when talking to venture capitalists, it is important to get down to the business case: “They are not interested in space per se. What they really want to know is where the money is,” he says. He also noted a difference between the USA and the EU, saying that in the EU business was more driven by a technology push, while in the USA businesses operated in a more market-push environment.
To put all this into perspective, Planet Labs CEO used his company’s ambitious Earth observation and remote sensing business plans as a case study of space-based success. According to him, a global sensor revolution is currently underway, and the Planet Lab approach is looking to enable monitoring on a daily basis with global coverage and rapid online delivery at lower cost.
To achieve this, a fleet of over 100 small mass-manufactured satellites will be needed – a process that will “institutionalises innovation”. “This constellation will allow monitoring of ‘everywhere, everyday’ at a three-metre pixel resolution,” he says. “This almost real-time information will let us take the pulse of the planet and, when combined with excellent analytics, will help decision-makers and support efforts for global sustainability.”
Want to learn more about the many ways Space Solutions can benefit your business? In the coming weeks we will be running focused articles and business profiles on how such sectors as energy, smart mobility, climate change and the environment, agriculture and food, river deltas and health and safety are all making the business case for space.
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).
One major takeaway from last week’s European Space Solutions conference in The Hague is that satellite navigation and Earth observation data are creating big opportunities for game-changing growth in Europe and beyond.
Opening a dedicated session on the topic of space solutions for business, European GNSS Agency (GSA) Executive Director Carlo des Dorides described how space is bringing effective tools to face the many challenges that business and society are confronting. Under the equation ‘(Space + Innovation) x Entrepreneurship = Growth!’ he noted that “entrepreneurs must not only have a vision, but the capacity to realise their vision, and be keen to take on risks and able to learn from ‘unsuccess’”.
As a case in point on how European space solutions can benefit businesses, he highlighted the role of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) in opening up business opportunities in the aviation sector and beyond. From six airports with operational EGNOS approaches in 2011, there are now over 350 operational EGNOS based procedures in Europe – a number set to double by 2018.
“This innovation ensures that smaller regional airports remain accessible in all weather conditions, increases operational efficiency and boosts tourism and trade,” he says. “This is resulting in major benefits for many airport operators and their regional communities.”
According to des Dorides, EGNOS is the perfect showcase of European innovation, saying that “EGNOS-based operations represent the most significant innovation in European air traffic since the invention of radar.”
Already an estimated 6 % of the global gross domestic product (GDP) depends on space technology. “If Europe gets our space strategy right, we will provide the right opportunities for using this space data for jobs and growth well into the future,” adds European Commission Head of Unit for Galileo and EGNOS Applications Philippe Jean.
Looking at what businesses want to do with space solutions, perhaps Shell Vice-President of Exploration Technology and Chief Scientist Geophysics Dirk Smit summed it up best by saying: “We want to bring space to Earth.” Elaborating on this statement, he notes that in his sector space is already providing solutions to the global energy challenge, including the use of space-based monitoring techniques for geoscience that are helping Shell “turn data into decisions”.
This is especially true when applied to the Earth’s subsurface, which Smit describes as “the last frontier” for exploration. Routine visualisation of the Earth’s subsurface, including the ocean floor for which Shell is sponsoring an Ocean Discovery XPRIZE, is close and, according to Smit, space-borne technology is critical.
So how are business leaders addressing today’s challenges and preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities with space solutions? According to global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver manufacturer ST Microelectronics Director Carlo Bagnoli, all one has to do is look at the transport sector. “After ST pioneered a volume supply of multi-constellation GNSS standalone receivers in 2011, we are now delivering our Teseo third-generation global GNSS solution supporting all existing signals, including Galileo,” he says. “Furthermore, we are developing precise positioning solutions to support new applications in Highly Automated ADAS [Advanced Driver Assist Systems] that match the performance, reliability and cost targets of these new exciting applications.”
In terms of smart cities and autonomous driving, Bagnoli feels that no single technology will drive this business alone. However, he believes that GNSS must be an important part of the technological mix. “This market will be global, dynamic and highly competitive, but will also rely on regulation and standardisation to ensure growth,” he says.
Adding to this role of GNSS in the transport sector, Xerox Tolling Business Senior Manager Peter Depuydt talked about space-based solutions in applications such as public transport, fleet management and route optimisation. According to him, GNSS-based systems have major applications in border control solutions. He also believes that legislation for data safeguards will become increasingly important. “Vehicle tolling systems will generate a huge amount of data that enables efficient traffic management. However the actual tracking guarantees privacy,” he says.
Entrepreneur and self-proclaimed space invader Robert Mica discussed the current investment climate, noting that interest in investing in space-based businesses was changing – and fast. “Venture capital invested more in space start-ups last year than in the previous 15 years,” he says. “Clearly, there is a big shift happening.”
That being said, he also advised that, when talking to venture capitalists, it is important to get down to the business case: “They are not interested in space per se. What they really want to know is where the money is,” he says. He also noted a difference between the USA and the EU, saying that in the EU business was more driven by a technology push, while in the USA businesses operated in a more market-push environment.
To put all this into perspective, Planet Labs CEO used his company’s ambitious Earth observation and remote sensing business plans as a case study of space-based success. According to him, a global sensor revolution is currently underway, and the Planet Lab approach is looking to enable monitoring on a daily basis with global coverage and rapid online delivery at lower cost.
To achieve this, a fleet of over 100 small mass-manufactured satellites will be needed – a process that will “institutionalises innovation”. “This constellation will allow monitoring of ‘everywhere, everyday’ at a three-metre pixel resolution,” he says. “This almost real-time information will let us take the pulse of the planet and, when combined with excellent analytics, will help decision-makers and support efforts for global sustainability.”
Want to learn more about the many ways Space Solutions can benefit your business? In the coming weeks we will be running focused articles and business profiles on how such sectors as energy, smart mobility, climate change and the environment, agriculture and food, river deltas and health and safety are all making the business case for space.
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).
One major takeaway from last week’s European Space Solutions conference in The Hague is that satellite navigation and Earth observation data are creating big opportunities for game-changing growth in Europe and beyond.
Opening a dedicated session on the topic of space solutions for business, European GNSS Agency (GSA) Executive Director Carlo des Dorides described how space is bringing effective tools to face the many challenges that business and society are confronting. Under the equation ‘(Space + Innovation) x Entrepreneurship = Growth!’ he noted that “entrepreneurs must not only have a vision, but the capacity to realise their vision, and be keen to take on risks and able to learn from ‘unsuccess’”.
As a case in point on how European space solutions can benefit businesses, he highlighted the role of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) in opening up business opportunities in the aviation sector and beyond. From six airports with operational EGNOS approaches in 2011, there are now over 350 operational EGNOS based procedures in Europe – a number set to double by 2018.
“This innovation ensures that smaller regional airports remain accessible in all weather conditions, increases operational efficiency and boosts tourism and trade,” he says. “This is resulting in major benefits for many airport operators and their regional communities.”
According to des Dorides, EGNOS is the perfect showcase of European innovation, saying that “EGNOS-based operations represent the most significant innovation in European air traffic since the invention of radar.”
Already an estimated 6 % of the global gross domestic product (GDP) depends on space technology. “If Europe gets our space strategy right, we will provide the right opportunities for using this space data for jobs and growth well into the future,” adds European Commission Head of Unit for Galileo and EGNOS Applications Philippe Jean.
Looking at what businesses want to do with space solutions, perhaps Shell Vice-President of Exploration Technology and Chief Scientist Geophysics Dirk Smit summed it up best by saying: “We want to bring space to Earth.” Elaborating on this statement, he notes that in his sector space is already providing solutions to the global energy challenge, including the use of space-based monitoring techniques for geoscience that are helping Shell “turn data into decisions”.
This is especially true when applied to the Earth’s subsurface, which Smit describes as “the last frontier” for exploration. Routine visualisation of the Earth’s subsurface, including the ocean floor for which Shell is sponsoring an Ocean Discovery XPRIZE, is close and, according to Smit, space-borne technology is critical.
So how are business leaders addressing today’s challenges and preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities with space solutions? According to global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver manufacturer ST Microelectronics Director Carlo Bagnoli, all one has to do is look at the transport sector. “After ST pioneered a volume supply of multi-constellation GNSS standalone receivers in 2011, we are now delivering our Teseo third-generation global GNSS solution supporting all existing signals, including Galileo,” he says. “Furthermore, we are developing precise positioning solutions to support new applications in Highly Automated ADAS [Advanced Driver Assist Systems] that match the performance, reliability and cost targets of these new exciting applications.”
In terms of smart cities and autonomous driving, Bagnoli feels that no single technology will drive this business alone. However, he believes that GNSS must be an important part of the technological mix. “This market will be global, dynamic and highly competitive, but will also rely on regulation and standardisation to ensure growth,” he says.
Adding to this role of GNSS in the transport sector, Xerox Tolling Business Senior Manager Peter Depuydt talked about space-based solutions in applications such as public transport, fleet management and route optimisation. According to him, GNSS-based systems have major applications in border control solutions. He also believes that legislation for data safeguards will become increasingly important. “Vehicle tolling systems will generate a huge amount of data that enables efficient traffic management. However the actual tracking guarantees privacy,” he says.
Entrepreneur and self-proclaimed space invader Robert Mica discussed the current investment climate, noting that interest in investing in space-based businesses was changing – and fast. “Venture capital invested more in space start-ups last year than in the previous 15 years,” he says. “Clearly, there is a big shift happening.”
That being said, he also advised that, when talking to venture capitalists, it is important to get down to the business case: “They are not interested in space per se. What they really want to know is where the money is,” he says. He also noted a difference between the USA and the EU, saying that in the EU business was more driven by a technology push, while in the USA businesses operated in a more market-push environment.
To put all this into perspective, Planet Labs CEO used his company’s ambitious Earth observation and remote sensing business plans as a case study of space-based success. According to him, a global sensor revolution is currently underway, and the Planet Lab approach is looking to enable monitoring on a daily basis with global coverage and rapid online delivery at lower cost.
To achieve this, a fleet of over 100 small mass-manufactured satellites will be needed – a process that will “institutionalises innovation”. “This constellation will allow monitoring of ‘everywhere, everyday’ at a three-metre pixel resolution,” he says. “This almost real-time information will let us take the pulse of the planet and, when combined with excellent analytics, will help decision-makers and support efforts for global sustainability.”
Want to learn more about the many ways Space Solutions can benefit your business? In the coming weeks we will be running focused articles and business profiles on how such sectors as energy, smart mobility, climate change and the environment, agriculture and food, river deltas and health and safety are all making the business case for space.
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).
One major takeaway from last week’s European Space Solutions conference in The Hague is that satellite navigation and Earth observation data are creating big opportunities for game-changing growth in Europe and beyond.
Opening a dedicated session on the topic of space solutions for business, European GNSS Agency (GSA) Executive Director Carlo des Dorides described how space is bringing effective tools to face the many challenges that business and society are confronting. Under the equation ‘(Space + Innovation) x Entrepreneurship = Growth!’ he noted that “entrepreneurs must not only have a vision, but the capacity to realise their vision, and be keen to take on risks and able to learn from ‘unsuccess’”.
As a case in point on how European space solutions can benefit businesses, he highlighted the role of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) in opening up business opportunities in the aviation sector and beyond. From six airports with operational EGNOS approaches in 2011, there are now over 350 operational EGNOS based procedures in Europe – a number set to double by 2018.
“This innovation ensures that smaller regional airports remain accessible in all weather conditions, increases operational efficiency and boosts tourism and trade,” he says. “This is resulting in major benefits for many airport operators and their regional communities.”
According to des Dorides, EGNOS is the perfect showcase of European innovation, saying that “EGNOS-based operations represent the most significant innovation in European air traffic since the invention of radar.”
Already an estimated 6 % of the global gross domestic product (GDP) depends on space technology. “If Europe gets our space strategy right, we will provide the right opportunities for using this space data for jobs and growth well into the future,” adds European Commission Head of Unit for Galileo and EGNOS Applications Philippe Jean.
Looking at what businesses want to do with space solutions, perhaps Shell Vice-President of Exploration Technology and Chief Scientist Geophysics Dirk Smit summed it up best by saying: “We want to bring space to Earth.” Elaborating on this statement, he notes that in his sector space is already providing solutions to the global energy challenge, including the use of space-based monitoring techniques for geoscience that are helping Shell “turn data into decisions”.
This is especially true when applied to the Earth’s subsurface, which Smit describes as “the last frontier” for exploration. Routine visualisation of the Earth’s subsurface, including the ocean floor for which Shell is sponsoring an Ocean Discovery XPRIZE, is close and, according to Smit, space-borne technology is critical.
So how are business leaders addressing today’s challenges and preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities with space solutions? According to global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver manufacturer ST Microelectronics Director Carlo Bagnoli, all one has to do is look at the transport sector. “After ST pioneered a volume supply of multi-constellation GNSS standalone receivers in 2011, we are now delivering our Teseo third-generation global GNSS solution supporting all existing signals, including Galileo,” he says. “Furthermore, we are developing precise positioning solutions to support new applications in Highly Automated ADAS [Advanced Driver Assist Systems] that match the performance, reliability and cost targets of these new exciting applications.”
In terms of smart cities and autonomous driving, Bagnoli feels that no single technology will drive this business alone. However, he believes that GNSS must be an important part of the technological mix. “This market will be global, dynamic and highly competitive, but will also rely on regulation and standardisation to ensure growth,” he says.
Adding to this role of GNSS in the transport sector, Xerox Tolling Business Senior Manager Peter Depuydt talked about space-based solutions in applications such as public transport, fleet management and route optimisation. According to him, GNSS-based systems have major applications in border control solutions. He also believes that legislation for data safeguards will become increasingly important. “Vehicle tolling systems will generate a huge amount of data that enables efficient traffic management. However the actual tracking guarantees privacy,” he says.
Entrepreneur and self-proclaimed space invader Robert Mica discussed the current investment climate, noting that interest in investing in space-based businesses was changing – and fast. “Venture capital invested more in space start-ups last year than in the previous 15 years,” he says. “Clearly, there is a big shift happening.”
That being said, he also advised that, when talking to venture capitalists, it is important to get down to the business case: “They are not interested in space per se. What they really want to know is where the money is,” he says. He also noted a difference between the USA and the EU, saying that in the EU business was more driven by a technology push, while in the USA businesses operated in a more market-push environment.
To put all this into perspective, Planet Labs CEO used his company’s ambitious Earth observation and remote sensing business plans as a case study of space-based success. According to him, a global sensor revolution is currently underway, and the Planet Lab approach is looking to enable monitoring on a daily basis with global coverage and rapid online delivery at lower cost.
To achieve this, a fleet of over 100 small mass-manufactured satellites will be needed – a process that will “institutionalises innovation”. “This constellation will allow monitoring of ‘everywhere, everyday’ at a three-metre pixel resolution,” he says. “This almost real-time information will let us take the pulse of the planet and, when combined with excellent analytics, will help decision-makers and support efforts for global sustainability.”
Want to learn more about the many ways Space Solutions can benefit your business? In the coming weeks we will be running focused articles and business profiles on how such sectors as energy, smart mobility, climate change and the environment, agriculture and food, river deltas and health and safety are all making the business case for space.
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).
One major takeaway from last week’s European Space Solutions conference in The Hague is that satellite navigation and Earth observation data are creating big opportunities for game-changing growth in Europe and beyond.
Opening a dedicated session on the topic of space solutions for business, European GNSS Agency (GSA) Executive Director Carlo des Dorides described how space is bringing effective tools to face the many challenges that business and society are confronting. Under the equation ‘(Space + Innovation) x Entrepreneurship = Growth!’ he noted that “entrepreneurs must not only have a vision, but the capacity to realise their vision, and be keen to take on risks and able to learn from ‘unsuccess’”.
As a case in point on how European space solutions can benefit businesses, he highlighted the role of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) in opening up business opportunities in the aviation sector and beyond. From six airports with operational EGNOS approaches in 2011, there are now over 350 operational EGNOS based procedures in Europe – a number set to double by 2018.
“This innovation ensures that smaller regional airports remain accessible in all weather conditions, increases operational efficiency and boosts tourism and trade,” he says. “This is resulting in major benefits for many airport operators and their regional communities.”
According to des Dorides, EGNOS is the perfect showcase of European innovation, saying that “EGNOS-based operations represent the most significant innovation in European air traffic since the invention of radar.”
Already an estimated 6 % of the global gross domestic product (GDP) depends on space technology. “If Europe gets our space strategy right, we will provide the right opportunities for using this space data for jobs and growth well into the future,” adds European Commission Head of Unit for Galileo and EGNOS Applications Philippe Jean.
Looking at what businesses want to do with space solutions, perhaps Shell Vice-President of Exploration Technology and Chief Scientist Geophysics Dirk Smit summed it up best by saying: “We want to bring space to Earth.” Elaborating on this statement, he notes that in his sector space is already providing solutions to the global energy challenge, including the use of space-based monitoring techniques for geoscience that are helping Shell “turn data into decisions”.
This is especially true when applied to the Earth’s subsurface, which Smit describes as “the last frontier” for exploration. Routine visualisation of the Earth’s subsurface, including the ocean floor for which Shell is sponsoring an Ocean Discovery XPRIZE, is close and, according to Smit, space-borne technology is critical.
So how are business leaders addressing today’s challenges and preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities with space solutions? According to global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver manufacturer ST Microelectronics Director Carlo Bagnoli, all one has to do is look at the transport sector. “After ST pioneered a volume supply of multi-constellation GNSS standalone receivers in 2011, we are now delivering our Teseo third-generation global GNSS solution supporting all existing signals, including Galileo,” he says. “Furthermore, we are developing precise positioning solutions to support new applications in Highly Automated ADAS [Advanced Driver Assist Systems] that match the performance, reliability and cost targets of these new exciting applications.”
In terms of smart cities and autonomous driving, Bagnoli feels that no single technology will drive this business alone. However, he believes that GNSS must be an important part of the technological mix. “This market will be global, dynamic and highly competitive, but will also rely on regulation and standardisation to ensure growth,” he says.
Adding to this role of GNSS in the transport sector, Xerox Tolling Business Senior Manager Peter Depuydt talked about space-based solutions in applications such as public transport, fleet management and route optimisation. According to him, GNSS-based systems have major applications in border control solutions. He also believes that legislation for data safeguards will become increasingly important. “Vehicle tolling systems will generate a huge amount of data that enables efficient traffic management. However the actual tracking guarantees privacy,” he says.
Entrepreneur and self-proclaimed space invader Robert Mica discussed the current investment climate, noting that interest in investing in space-based businesses was changing – and fast. “Venture capital invested more in space start-ups last year than in the previous 15 years,” he says. “Clearly, there is a big shift happening.”
That being said, he also advised that, when talking to venture capitalists, it is important to get down to the business case: “They are not interested in space per se. What they really want to know is where the money is,” he says. He also noted a difference between the USA and the EU, saying that in the EU business was more driven by a technology push, while in the USA businesses operated in a more market-push environment.
To put all this into perspective, Planet Labs CEO used his company’s ambitious Earth observation and remote sensing business plans as a case study of space-based success. According to him, a global sensor revolution is currently underway, and the Planet Lab approach is looking to enable monitoring on a daily basis with global coverage and rapid online delivery at lower cost.
To achieve this, a fleet of over 100 small mass-manufactured satellites will be needed – a process that will “institutionalises innovation”. “This constellation will allow monitoring of ‘everywhere, everyday’ at a three-metre pixel resolution,” he says. “This almost real-time information will let us take the pulse of the planet and, when combined with excellent analytics, will help decision-makers and support efforts for global sustainability.”
Want to learn more about the many ways Space Solutions can benefit your business? In the coming weeks we will be running focused articles and business profiles on how such sectors as energy, smart mobility, climate change and the environment, agriculture and food, river deltas and health and safety are all making the business case for space.
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).
Evropská kosmická agentura ve spolupráci se Švédským národním kosmickým výborem a Německou kosmickou agenturou otevírají další výzvy k podání návrhů na experimenty pro starty výškových sondážních raket REXUS a stratosférických experimentálních balonů BEXUS. Příjem projektových návrhů pro oba typy experimentů končí 17. října 2016.