Overview

The satID® Geolocation System is an accurate, fast, all-in-one solution for locating ground-to-satellite transmission sources. Powerful, flexible, and modular, satID uniquely blends complex science and algorithms with sophisticated hardware and Digital Signal Processing (DSP), resulting in an easy-to-use package for locating and identifying sources of interference due to equipment failure, operator error, intentional jamming, and unauthorized users.

Demo: Click here to watch the satID demonstration video. (7MB)

PDF: Click here to download a satID PDF.

Operation

Due to a variety of practical antenna and transmitter characteristics, a signal sent to satellite X is often received at extremely low power levels by nearby satellite Y. Similarly, reference signals from known locations and interfering signals (accidental or intentional) aimed at satellite X can also be received at satellite Y.

As a result, downlinks from satellites X and Y often carry the reference and interfering signals.

Utilizing sophisticated signal analysis and DSP capabilities, along with advanced Cross Ambiguity Functions (CAF), satID precisely correlates all received signals to accurately determine Differential Time Offset (DTO) and Differential Frequency Offset (DFO) information for each.

DTO and DFO information is then processed to determine the estimated ground location of the interfering signal, as well as a high confidence ellipse encompassing any uncertainties in the results. Geolocation uncertainties are minimized by satID's proven Precision Location, Ephemeris Error CompensationTM, Phase Correction, and Satellite Motion Compensation capabilities.

The satID system requires two antennas, one aimed at a primary satellite and the other at a nearby secondary satellite. The distributed processing architecture of satID enables colocated or geographically separated antenna sites.

Existing signal sources at known locations can be used as reference signals, or satID Transmit Units can generate them. Geolocation precision improves as reference signals geographically closer to the interfering signals are used.

System Architecture

The satID products are built upon a powerful, yet flexible architecture. Each system requires two acquisition units, typically these are co-located, but can be at two different antenna sites. Optionally, RF downconversion and switching can be included in a satID system. At the core of any satID system are the satID software applications, together these applications make up the satID Processor.

Test and Training

For enhanced operator training and system test, satID can include an optional hardware simulation system called satID GeoSim. The satID GeoSim system accurately models geolocation environments by recreating the real-world RF signals received by satID, adding the full set of physics effects imparted on signals as they travel to and from satellites. This exclusive technology enhances geolocation operations and sharpens operator's reaction skills, allowing users to more quickly and more cost-effectively diagnose and restore link problems. For more information about these capabilities, download the satID GeoSim datasheet.

Models and Options

ARTICLES

Geolocation Article On SatMagazine Site

SatMagazine is running an article in their online magazine about geolocation: Geolocation: Past, Present + Future.