GPS (Global Positioning System)
Written by Jack on May 31st, 2008
| Objective: |
To familiarize the student with the operation and use of GPS for aerial navigation. |
| Content: |
- Worldwide satellite-based navigation
- Three major elements
- Space segment
- 26 satellites
- Transmit via UHF (no weather interference, but subject to line-of-sight)
- Control segment
- Master control station at Falcon AFB, Colorado Springs, CO
- Five monitor stations distributed around the Earth
- Three ground antennas distributed around the Earth to update and correct data
- User segment
- GPS receivers calculate time-in-transit of signal sent by satellite based on time signal was sent, time it was received, and speed (speed of light)
- Must receive at least 3 satellite signals for navigation (4 for altitude)
- Many units contain extensive databases similar to LORAN-C
- Should obtain GPS NOTAMS before navigation
- Random Access Integrity Monitoring (RAIM)
See AFH C. 14-26 |
| Completion Standards: |
The lesson is complete when the student demonstrates knowledge through a written or oral exam and is able to navigate with reference to the GPS to the satisfaction of the instructor and in accordance with the current Practical Test Standards for the student’s stage of training. |
Posted in CFI Lesson Plans |
RAIM stands for “Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring”, from the AIM 1-1-19.