Developments in interpretation of the GLONASS navigation satellite

The basis elements of the GLONASS system are summarized. Recent system developments are discussed followed by a discussion of satellite orbits and data structure. Comparisons are made with NAVSTAR GPS. The basis structure of the GLONASS radio-frequency system is such that two L-band frequencies are used to transmit spread-spectrum signals, designated L1 and L2, as in the case of NAVSTAR. Also in common with NAVSTAR the signal at L1 contains both a precise (P) and a coarse acquisition (C/A) spread-spectrum code, whereas the signal at L2 only contains a P code. At L1 the NAVSTAR C/A code is 3-dB stronger than the P code. For GLONASS the C/A code and P code at L1 have equal powers.<>