In inertial navigation, the term constellation refers to the network of satellites used for positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) when an INS (Inertial Navigation System) is integrated with GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). A satellite constellation consists of multiple satellites working together to provide global coverage and accurate location data.
Major GNSS Constellations Used in INS/GNSS Integration
GPS (Global Positioning System) – Operated by the United States, with 31+ active satellites.
GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System) – Operated by Russia, with 20+ active satellites.
Galileo – Operated by the European Union, offering high-precision services.
BeiDou (BDS, 北斗卫星导航系统) – Operated by China, with 35+ satellites providing global coverage.
QZSS (Quasi-Zenith Satellite System) – Operated by Japan, enhancing GNSS signals in the Asia-Pacific region.
Constellations in Inertial Navigation Systems (INS/GNSS Integration)
• Enhancing Navigation Accuracy – When GNSS data is available, it corrects INS drift, improving positioning accuracy.
• Improving Reliability – Multi-constellation support ensures redundancy, reducing signal loss in challenging environments (e.g., urban canyons, tunnels).
• Multi-Frequency Operation – Using L1, L2, L5 bands from multiple constellations enhances anti-jamming and precision.
