Accuracy estimation of site coordinates derived from GNSS-observations by non-classical error theory of measurements

The velocities of tectonic plates derived from GNSS time series are regularly used as input data for geophysical models. However, as shown by numerous researches, the coordinates time series contain residual errors of a systematic nature, which can significantly affect the reliability of the obtained velocity estimates. This research shows that using non-classical error theory of measurement (NETM) for processing GNSS time series allows detecting the presence of weak, not removed from GNSS processing, sources of systematic errors. Based on the coordinate time series of selected permanent GNSS stations in Europe, we checked the empirical distributions of errors by the NETM on G. Jeffries' recommendations and on the principles of the theory of hypothesis tests according to Pearson's criterion. It is established that the obtained coordinates time series of GNSS-stations only partially confirm the hypothesis of their conformity to the normal Gaussian distribution law, and this may be the main reason for their unrepresentative classification. In the future, it is necessary to identify and take into account the causes of residual errors that distort the real distribution of the results of the GNSS time series. (C) 2021 Editorial office of Geodesy and Geodynamics. Publishing services by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of KeAi Communications Co. Ltd.