Galileo

This project is jointly funded by the members of the E.C. The project is named after the Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei. The full name is the Galileo Positioning System, however, as an abbreviation of this name is GPS, it is generally shortened to the single word, to avoid confusion with the U.S. Navstar GPS.

This project was delayed for years by political wrangling about cost and governance by the EC member countries. Agreement was finally reached to push ahead with the project in 2007.

The second Galileo In-Orbit Validation Element (GIOVE-B)satellite was launched in April 2008. This satellite, along with its predecessor, GIOVE-A, is intended to demonstrate and evaluate the technology ahead of the launch of operational satellites. The next phase calls for the launch of 4 operational satellites in 2010. The full complement of 30 satellites are scheduled to be operational by 2013. Full deployment of the constellation will more than double the number of satellites. This will greatly improve SatNav reliability and accuracy.

Further details here.

GLONASS

GLONASS is an abbreviation of GLObal'naya NAvigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema. (Translated as Global Navigation Satellite System). Developed as a military answer to the USA Navsat system by the former Soviet Union, it fell into disrepair as the Soviet economy collapsed at the turn of the century. In 2001, Russia announced its intention of restoring the system, and currently it is scheduled to be completely operational some time in 2009.

Compass/Beidou Navigation Satellite System

This is a system which China is developing. It currently has a very limited coverage, but 2 satellites were launched in early 2007 and China will continue with further experimental launches.

India and Japan

are also working on SatNav systems. IRNSS is the Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System, while Japan is developing the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System.




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See how SatNav maps are made.






Trilateration. The principle behind the calculation of GPS map co-ordinates.