GNSS CORS – Reference Frames and Services

Volker SCHWIEGER，Mikael LILJE，Rob SARIB
[ Link to fig.net ]

Overview – Nowadays the time of GPS or even GNSS static baseline determination is almost out-of-date for everyday applications. The present trends are to continuously observe and measure using GNSS, install permanent GNSS base stations or networks and provide real time accurate positioning. If you put these three trends together you have an advanced component of geoscience infrastructure known as a GNSS CORS network. These networks need to have a geodetic datum, meaning that they have to be linked to the available terrestrial reference frames. Such GNSS CORS networks are or will be the primary means by which numerous users can access and realize position that is based on a geodetic datum. In some regions, GNSS CORS networks are so well developed and dynamic that they have a more prominent role than the existing classical passive geodetic infrastructure in reference frame determination or monitoring.　This paper will focus on the relationship of GNSS CORS with global and regional reference frames. It will provide procedures for realizing the link between the GNSS CORS and the available reference frames. An overview on the key aspects of a GNSS CORS site and CORS network will be articulated. Some information regarding the concepts of virtual reference station and of area-correction parameters as well as of the master-auxiliary-concept will also be discussed. In addition, this paper will outline the various positioning services that GNSS CORS networks could provide.