Session E3b: Advanced Technologies in High Precision GNSS Positioning

Evaluating GEODNET Network Performance and its Impact on Consumer Navigation Applications
Mike Horton, Yudan Yi, and David Chen, GEODNET
Location: Holiday 1 (Second Floor)
Date/Time: Thursday, Sep. 11, 9:43 a.m.

The Global Earth Observation Decentralized Network (GEODNET) was introduced as a research concept for GNSS augmentation networks at the 2021 ION GNSS+ conference, where it received the award for Best Presentation in the GNSS Augmentation Networks track. Since its inception, GEODNET has expanded significantly, now comprising 14,011 registered GNSS stations across 142 countries and 4,377 cities. This makes it the largest Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) network in the world.
GEODNET reference stations are equipped with triple-frequency, quad-constellation receivers and are accurately positioned and monitored using NRCAN’s online Precise Point Positioning (PPP) software. Each station is individually purchased and operated in exchange for GEOD, a blockchain-based token that can be redeemed for local fiat currency through various decentralized and centralized cryptocurrency exchanges. The network is currently utilized by over thirty enterprise customers, with the majority of its stable stations being accessed daily by one or more users.
This paper examines the overall stability and performance of the GEODNET network, comparing it to select government and private networks. Additionally, the paper explores the impact of network density on positioning accuracy in mass-market applications that rely on low-cost GNSS receivers.
Network performance is assessed using key metrics such as epoch availability, positional stability, cycle slips, and multipath errors. The impact of these metrics on user accuracy is further analyzed through a series of automated scripts and RTKlib.
Mass-market high-accuracy positioning applications include automotive driver assistance systems (ADAS), mobile phone navigation, and consumer Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as robotic lawn mowers. These devices typically feature limited dual-frequency receivers and compact antennas. This paper evaluates how GEODNET’s higher station density and short average baseline length, impacts the resultant mobile GNSS receiver RTK fix reliability and accuracy.
The paper finally reviews future developments for GEODNET including using GEODNET in non-traditional CORS network applications such as aircraft and drone tracking, as well as recent developments to upgrade GEODNET station tracking for the upcoming Xona network of Low-Earth Orbit Satellites.