GNSS Satellite Geometry and Attitude Models

Abstract

This article discusses the attitude modes employed by present Global (and Regional) Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs) and the models used to describe them along with definitions of the constellation-specific spacecraft body frames. For use within the International GNSS Service (IGS), a harmonized convention for the labeling of the principal spacecraft axes is introduced, which results in a common formulation of the nominal attitude of all GNSS satellites in yaw-steering mode irrespective of their specific orbit and constellation. The conventions defined within this document provide the basis for the specification of antenna phase center offsets and variations in a multi-GNSS version of the absolute IGS phase center model in the ANTEX (antenna exchange) format. To facilitate the joint analysis of GNSS observations and satellite laser ranging measurements, laser retroreflector array coordinates consistent with the IGS-specific spacecraft frame conventions are provided in addition to representative antenna offset values for all GNSS constellations.