Space technology allows precise navigation without GNSS

COLOGNE, Germany – The German Aerospace research center DLR developed an optical navigation and inspection system for use in environments where position determination is not possible via a satellite navigation system such as GPS or Galileo. The Integrated Positioning System (IPS) can accurately determine one's own position without additional "prior knowledge" of the environment and without external reference points. Originally developed for missions in outer space, the scientists also see possible applications in tunnels, mines or industrial facilities, for example, reports EENews Europe.

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The Intelligent Aerospace take:

December 11, 2018-DLR's Integrated Positioning System is another great example of space technology reaping benefits here on terra firma. The aerospace research center says that here on Earth, IPS can be used to help guide autonimous vehicles, as well as industrial applications like mining, ship inspection, construction and infrastructure projects, as well as in forestry and seismic surveying. IPS is also expected to be integral to manned space missions to other planets, should they occur, as the technology was originally developed for the unmanned Mars missions.

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Jamie Whitney, Associate Editor
Intelligent Aerospace

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