Radio wave propagation impact on signal parameters of local positioning systems

This article focuses on radio wave propagation condition impact on local positioning system radio signal parameters. The choice of radio frequency depending on antenna heights is considered as well as the accuracy of radio navigational parameter calculation. Time delay accuracy degradation is estimated considering the cases of rectilinear propagation, atmospheric refraction propagation and two-ray channel propagation. Modulation methods preferred for usage in local positioning systems operating in difficult propagation conditions are discussed. Recommendations for automatic deployment of planetary local positioning system are made.