Comparison of four different GNSS antenna installations using estimated atmospheric gradients and microwave radiometry

Other conference contribution, 2022

We have assessed the quality of four GNSS antenna installations by studying time series of estimated linear horizontal gradients in the signal delay. The stations have different electromagnetic environments. We also examine the consistency of the results by using two different GNSS softwares, GipsyX and c5++, and applying three different elevation cutoff angles: 5◦, 10◦, and 20◦. The estimated gradients are compared to the corresponding ones estimated from microwave radiometer observations acquired during six months (April–September 2021). We have indications that it is an advantage to equip the area below the GNSS antenna with microwave absorbing material. However, the differences are small and more studies are needed to decide if such an investment is reasonable in terms of cost and maintenance.