Considerations in Utilizing Galileo Signals for GNSS-R Ocean Sensing
Garrison, J.L.; Beyerle, G.; Ruffini, G.
School of Aeronautics and Astronautics

The sensitivity of reflected GPS signals to ocean surface roughness has been demonstrated through theoretical models, aircraft campaigns and recent satellite experiments. Applications of this measurement include a low cost and low power ocean winds sensor, suitable for use on UAV’s and light aircraft, and as a secondary payload on low Earth orbiting satellites. The use of Galileo signals for this measurement presents two considerations. First, the number of specular points would approximately double when the Galileo signals are included. Second, models for the reflected signal waveform would have to be modified for the more complex binary offset carrier (BOC) modulations that are used on the Galileo signals. Some preliminary simulations of specular point coverage have been performed using representative receiver orbits (Aquarius and QuickSCAT).