Precise positioning capabilities for TOPEX using differential GPS

Abstract

NASA's Ocean Topographic Experiment (TOPEX), to be launched in 1991, is the first mission designed to reach the decimeter accuracy needed for the solution of the general mean circulation problem. An experimental tracking capability for TOPEX is studied using differential measurements with satellites of the U.S. DOD's Global Positioning System (GPS). Two data types are studied: (1) integrated Doppler from GPS carrier phase, and (2) GPS P-code pseudo-range. Results of covariance analysis predict that with differential GPS techniques, 5-10 cm average TOPEX altitude accuracies can be achieved over data arcs of two hours.