Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) for a Wide Array of Terrestrial Applications

Utilization of Global Navigation Satellite Systems in various terrestrial applications is characterized by increasing popularity. It is visible in a number of aspects of human lives, various scientific researches are based on data gathered with GNSS what is more, many companies rely on proper functionality of these systems. Ability of rapid determination of precise location across the globe is widely utilized in military and disaster recovery applications, even artists are trying to use GNSS data as a form of artistic expression (Lauriault and Wood 2009). The most important factors which allowed GNSS for such a popularity are availability of navigation signals (free of costs, everywhere on Earth), good positioning precision (especially when supported by various augmentation systems) and high reliability of service (i.e., rarely cases of downtimes of GPS system functionality). In addition after achievement of fully operational state by GALILEO system, which will be fully controlled by civilian institutions, wave of new applications of these systems is expected.