Performance Analysis of LEO PNT Constellations

Hyun-Jung Lee, Young-Jin Song, Subin Lee, and Jong-Hoon Won

Peer Reviewed

Abstract:	Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) technology has recently gained attention. The number of visible satellites and the Geometric Dilution of Precision (GDOP) observed by ground users vary depending on LEO constellations, where the space segment design factors, including orbital altitude, inclination, and the total number of satellites have a significant influence on them. This paper presents an analysis of the performance of LEO constellations, specifically the number of visible satellites and GDOP, as a function of their space segment configurations. A previously developed multi-constellation, multi-frequency Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal simulator was modified to include LEO satellite data for experimental simulations. Using this simulator, various space segment configurations of LEO constellations suitable for ground observation locations at various latitudes were analyzed. Furthermore, the performance of multi-layered systems integrating LEO constellations into existing and planned systems is evaluated, with particular emphasis on ground observations in the Korean region. Keywords—LEO, LEO PNT, LEO constellation, constellation design, multi-layered system
Published in:	2025 IEEE/ION Position, Location and Navigation Symposium (PLANS) April 28 - 1, 2025 Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek Salt Lake City, UT
Pages:	404 - 409
Cite this article:	Lee, Hyun-Jung, Song, Young-Jin, Lee, Subin, Won, Jong-Hoon, "Performance Analysis of LEO PNT Constellations," 2025 IEEE/ION Position, Location and Navigation Symposium (PLANS), Salt Lake City, UT, April 2025, pp. 404-409.
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