Unit 2 Unmanned Aircraft Module 1 The UAS Component 1.4 – Communication

Communication Global Positioning System (Space Segment) Utilizes radio signals from orbiting satellites US has 24 satellites operational 95% of the time Constellation arrangement allows for total coverage of the globe Satellites set in a Medium Earth Orbit at 20,200km (12,550 miles) Each one circles the Earth twice a day 6 orbital planes with 4 satellites each Should get at least 4 signals at any time

Communication Global Positioning System (Space Segment) Satellites consist of Solar panels Antenna Internal components Each satellite has an atomic clock Accurate to at least a billionth of a second Accuracy is key, 1/100 of a timing error has a 1860 mile off target calculation

Communication Global Positioning System (User Segment) Consists of Antenna and equipment to trilateration to pinpoint the location Receives signals that have time, position, and status GPS device notes the time from the satellite and calculates the distance from the satellite

Communication Global Positioning System (Control Segment) Consists of Master Control Station (MCS) Monitor Stations Ground Antennas Master Control is located in Colorado Springs, Co Responsible for the management of the system and monitors Monitoring Stations Check altitude, position, speed, and overall health of satellites If errors or changes in orbits corrections can be uploaded to provide accurate information Checks are done twice a day

Communication 107.15 Condition for Safe Operations No person may operated a civil small unmanned aircraft system unless it is in a condition for safe operation. Prior to each flight, the remote pilot in command must check the small unmanned aircraft system to determine whether it is in a condition for safe operation. No person may continue flight of the small unmanned aircraft when he or she knows of has reason to know that the small unmanned aircraft system is no longer in a condition for safe operation.