Optimizing LEO PNT Testing for Next-Gen Satellite Constellations
From 5G and WiFi connectivity to earth imaging and climate monitoring, low earth orbit (LEO) constellations are opening up new possibilities in a wide range of industries. Amazon’s Kuiper, SpaceX’s Starlink, and the OneWeb constellation are three well-known examples of how this technology area is accelerating. What’s perhaps less understood is the dependence of these constellations on positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) data. We are so used to getting our PNT information from space that, perhaps, the consideration that devices in orbit also need to derive that information isn’t immediate.
PNT for LEO
Many LEO constellations depend on existing global navigation satellite system (GNSS) infrastructure to derive PNT information. That information supports critical functions, such as:
- Precision orbit determination (POD) for satellites moving at — or in excess of — 7.5 km/s in the most crowded part of space. As well as planning for continuous coverage, this determination reduces the risk of collision considerably.
- Precise positioning is central to many of the payloads LEO constellations carry. For instance, the accurate geolocation of images depends on the system reporting that position reliably.
- Timing and synchronization plays a crucial role in timestamping imagery, transmitting data, and processing time-of-arrival-based signals.
PNT from LEO
Along with challenges, LEO presents a significant opportunity for PNT. Proximity to earth compared to satellites in medium earth orbit (MEO) means LEO satellites provide higher power levels, offering possibilities for many applications. For example, by combining with micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) inertial sensors, LEO satellite signals enable precise indoor positioning. Lower development, launch, and maintenance costs make it an attractive option for total coverage. Lower signal propagation delays also offer resilience against the atmospheric delays caused to GNSS signals.
With some LEO PNT systems moving toward operational capability, this technology is poised to greatly enable industries and governments seeking to strengthen their PNT provision.
Master LEO PNT testing with the PNT GSS7000
These challenges and opportunities place greater demands on test and development. As the space industry understood for years, sending satellites or devices into space to test efficacy was neither safe nor cost-effective — and lab conditions don’t naturally mirror the intended environment.
Since the early days of global positioning system (GPS) in the 1980s, Keysight has supported space-based systems testing. The team continues this tradition by providing the expert knowledge and technological advancement required to validate major and LEO technologies.
To evaluate and optimize LEO PNT testing results, engineers require flexible, high-fidelity simulation. Our PNT GSS7000 series provides the necessary precision to identify and eliminate issues early, saving significant engineering hours and ensuring reliable performance across the entire coverage area.
Explore how the PNT GSS7000 platform delivers the flexibility and power needed for modern satellite navigation now.