3.3.1 Earth in motion: observation systems, reference systems, Earth rotation, geodynamics

Updates on GNSS satellite attitude models implemented in the software GROOPS

Frontiers of Geodetic Science
GNSS
Thursday, Sep 17, 2026
10:10 AM - 10:30 AM | Europe/Berlin

Vortrag // Presentation

INTERGEO Conference | Room C 62 b
English
About
Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) constellations as GPS, Galileo, GLONASS and BeiDou utilize special attitude control modes during eclipse season, a time period where the satellites orbital plane closely aligns with the Sun-Earth vector and allows for the satellites to enter Earth's shadow. To maintain stability and operability during these periods of missing solar influx, satellites deviate from their nominal yaw steering and perform complex yaw maneuvers. These different modes vary significantly across the different constellations, satellite generations and manufacturers. In 2021, all available modes were integrated into the open-source software GROOPS using a generalized framework designed for Precise Orbit Determination (POD). This presentation reviews that implementation, compares it with alternative methodologies, and discusses the necessary adjustments for the latest generation of GNSS satellites.

Speakers

Torsten Mayer-Gürr

University ProfessorTU Graz

Valerin Stokanic

Prae-DocTU Graz

Moderators

Robert Heinkelmann

Leiter Arbeitsgruppe "Kombination und VLBI", 1.1 Geodätische WeltraumverfahrenGFZ - Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung