differential navigation

Differential navigation, often referred to as differential GPS (DGPS), is a technique used to enhance the accuracy of global positioning system (GPS) navigation. It involves using a stationary base station at a known location that monitors GPS signals and calculates corrections. These corrections are then broadcast to nearby roving receivers, which use them to refine their own position calculations.1

This method is crucial for applications requiring high precision, such as precision farming or guiding vehicles. By comparing the base station's known position with its calculated position, DGPS can eliminate common errors, leading to accuracy improvements of less than 1 cm. This contrasts with standard GPS, which typically offers accuracy within 10 meters. Inertial guidance systems, which use gyroscopes and accelerometers, can also be used for navigation but often benefit from integration with GPS for enhanced accuracy.12