Interference is one of the most pressing threats to satellite navigation today. It can disrupt critical systems around the world, leading to significant economic losses. The consequences of interference are far-reaching, from mobility and transport disruptions and impacts to air navigation safety, to serious implications in emergency response efforts.
Through its different Navigation programmes, ESA is actively exploring innovative technologies to increase resilience of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS systems.).
At the Paris Air Show, in Le Bourget, representatives of ESA, Leonardo (IT) have signed a contract to research and develop Machine Learning (ML) techniques to steer antenna arrays to block out unwanted signals.
Head of Future Navigation Department at ESA Marco Falcone: “By combining our expertise with Leonardo advanced technologies, we are reinforcing our commitment to resilient, interference-resistant satellite navigation of the future.”
The project will be developed under the umbrella of ESA’s Navigation Innovation Support Programme (NAVISP).
Smarter antenna designs for increased resilience
Conventional antennas catch signals from all directions. A Controlled Reception Pattern Antennas (CRPAs) antenna can focus on signals coming from specific satellites and ignore signals or interference coming from other directions. These types of antennas are used in satellite navigation receivers to block jamming and counterfeit signals. They rely on electronics that control how they adjust their patterns (a concept known as “beamforming”).
Under contract with NAVISP, Leonardo together with ELT Group as subcontractor, will explore the reduction of the distance between the antenna elements to reduce the size and weight of the antenna array, and the use of Machine Learning to determine the best antenna setup and adjust the settings faster. This approach will lead to smaller, smarter and more effective antennas, especially useful in space-limited environments such as aircraft.
The project covers identification of the smarter algorithm for signal blocking, building and testing a real-time receiver demonstrator based on the selected algorithm, and comparing it to conventional larger antennas. The aim is to reach a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4, delivering a lab-tested technology by the end of the project, in two years.
About NAVISP
ESA navigation specialists are supporting cutting-edge European companies in the development of new PNT technologies and services – in support of Europe's industrial competitiveness, autonomy and leadership. The result is ESA’s Navigation Innovation and Support Programme, NAVISP.
NAVISP is looking into all kinds of clever ideas about the future of satellite navigation and positioning, navigation and timing: ways to improve satellite navigation, alternative positioning systems and new navigation services and applications.
For more information, visit the NAVISP webpage.