GNSS yaw attitude estimation: Results for the Japanese Quasi‐Zenith Satellite System Block‐II satellites using single‐ or triple‐frequency signals from two antennas

Abstract

The Japanese Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) constellation has added three new Block-II satellites, which broadcast ranging signals from their main L-band antenna together with augmentation signals from separate, auxiliary antennas. After determination of the baseline vector between main and auxiliary antenna, differential processing allows for an estimation of the satellite's yaw attitude with an accuracy of less than 1°. Differential carrier-phase center variation maps have been derived. Yaw estimation results are presented for periods of special interest, for example 360° yaw rotations, orbit correction maneuvers and the satellite's eclipse period, where a special pseudo-yaw steering attitude mode is applied. The second part of the paper introduces a new concept using triple-frequency signals from two different antennas for attitude determination. This method is demonstrated with QZSS measurements but is also applicable to other satellite navigation system, like the enhanced GLONASS-M satellites with L3 signal capabilities.