Network based performance of GPS-only and combined GPS/GLONASS positioning under different sky view conditions

This paper offers a comprehensive assessment of network-based positioning results using GPS-only and combined GPS/GLONASS data under open to limited sky view conditions. Data analysis is performed in a short (4 h) and a long (24 h) term spanning observations from five GNSS stations using 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees and 40 degrees elevation cut-off angles, which simulate the availability of satellites in different sky view conditions. Evaluation of the results reveals insignificant differences between the accuracy of the GPS-only and combined GPS/GLONASS solutions for daily observation in all sky view conditions. However the clear advantage of integrating GPS and GLONASS observation in a GNSS differential solution is apparent for short (4 h) observation periods, particularly at the highest elevation cut-off angle (40 degrees).