Prof. Bing Xu’s project, “Enhancing Vehicular Positioning and Navigation Precision in Urban Environments Using Low Earth Orbit Satellites,” has been awarded over HK$ 4,000,000. The project aims to assess the feasibility of using Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to provide high-precision positioning and navigation services by enhancing existing Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS).
While GNSS is essential for vehicular positioning and navigation, it faces numerous problems and challenges. For example, GNSS signals are easily obstructed or reflected in urban environments like Hong Kong, leading to degradation of positioning availability and accuracy. Additionally, secure GNSS positioning cannot be guaranteed due to increasing radio frequency interference and spoofing attacks. The proposed LEO-enhanced navigation services will be implemented in three steps: 1) positioning using current LEO satellites, such as Iridium satellites; 2) integrated positioning by GNSS satellites and the current LEO satellites; and 3) the study and implementation of integrated LEO/GNSS positioning using new LEO navigation signals.
This research promises substantial benefits for all road users, encompassing both private vehicles and public transportation networks. By ensuring highly reliable and secure navigation, the project will also accelerate the transition toward autonomous and electric vehicles, serving as a critical stepping stone in realizing the broader blueprints for smart mobility and smart city development.
