METIS Aerospace can employ a range of geolocation techniques. To maximise the system’s performance, METIS Aerospace Ltd use the most applicable algorithm for the Signal of Interest (SOI) to develop an integrated solution.  Our systems can use the sensor type or the sensor network deployment, which are clearly overlaid onto a terrain map showing Radio Frequency (RF) activity.  Using geolocation performance information, our systems can also give the bearing of results to a target.

The various algorithms that are provided as part of our system can be configured during the installation and commissioning of equipment.  Levels of spectrum activity can then be recorded and stored for playback, evidence and analysis.  This flexible and adaptable approach increases the probability for locating a SOI, regardless of its signal type or modulation.

SKYPERION's Geolocation Techniques:

Angle of Arrival (AOA)

Using a SKYPERION DR Sensor, the system can find the AOA direction to provide the operator with a line of bearing to the Signal of Interest (SOI). This is achieved by analysing the strength of signals received between directional antenna elements in the sensor array.

AOA measures the signal power and so its ability to generate the line of bearing is only limited by the noise floor of the receiver.  SKYPERION is designed with circular polarised antenna to maximise the received signal strength from most transmitting signal polarisations, which includes linear polarisation irrespective of orientation.  This technique overcomes any problems associated with polarisation loss, which is possible if a horizontally polarised signal suffers from alternative direction-finding systems.

Resolving AOA lines of bearing from multiple sensors provides the geolocation of the SOI.  Identifying and tracking intersection points in multiple lines of bearing allows an understanding of the whereabouts and movements of a Signal of Interest. The line of bearing from a SKYPERION DF Sensor can be used to skew an EO/IR camera simultaneously in the same direction to provide a visual along the line of bearing at the target.  The skewing of cameras can be programmed as an automatic or manual response to the identification of an SOI.

Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA)

Using synchronous time domain captures, TDOA determines the relative time of the arrival of a Signal of Interest at multiple receiver locations.  This geolocation technique is suited for coverage over wider areas.  It has a higher success rate over wider modulation bandwidths due to the improved signal correlation properties, which allow for more defined localisation.  An important advantage of TDOA is that the processing gain of correlation allows successful geolocation of signals that are close to, or even below, the receiver noise floor.  The Array on-board GPS receiver offers the most practical method for timing synchronisation over wide area deployments.  Combining the TDOA results and AOA results allows the SKYPERION DF Sensor to give unrivalled geolocation performance.

For further information on any of these services

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