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GPS 'accuracy booster' launched

02/10/2009

A free system launched today by the European Union promises to offer improved accuracy to existing satellite navigation systems.

EGNOS, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service, will work alongside the existing US-military-run GPS signal, improving its accuracy from about 10 metres to around two metres.

The open service will be automatically available to any GPS/SBAS equipped receiver, meaning that most devices sold in Europe will be able to benefit.

In addition to allowing drivers to better pinpoint their position, the improved accuracy may have applications for automatic road toll systems, or pay-per-use car insurance schemes, while it will also be certified for aviation use.

It is also set to open up new possibilities for both business and personal use, with the EU suggesting that agricultural applications could involve precise fertiliser spraying, and highly-accurate guidance tools for the blind.

The system works using a network of ground stations, and transponders mounted on three geostationary satellites. The EU says that it covers most states, and that it could be extended to cover North Africa and countries bordering the EU.

Vice-president for transport Antonio Tajani said that the venture was a "foundation stone" which paved the way for a "very imminent" future.

"What we are doing today opens the door for European businesses and citizens to benefit from the myriad of better applications and new opportunities made possible by more precise navigation signals," he added.

EGNOS prefigures the EU's Galileo global satellite navigation system, which is currently in development as an alternative to the current US-run system.

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