The accuracy of tropospheric excess path length estimation in a GNSS receiver can be increased by using an estimate of current or short-term evolution of atmospheric conditions. This information can be provided by ground or space based sensors and numerical weather prediction systems (like ECMWF for a global scale or HIRLAM/MM5 for regional scale). The models and algorithms to process this type of information and convert it into a message for local augmentation systems need to be develped.

Within this study, it is proposed to perform a system study for a concept for manufacturing hardware where time is not the driving parameter and initial available resources are very limited. In the frame of exploration missions, complex trade-off will have to be made to find out the best balance between the ISRU (In Situ Resources Utilisation) and the resources brought from Earth. The first ones will have to be further processed to become useful while the cost of the later will be tremendous.

Activity with GSTP and RUAG, Austria, to develop a thermal insulation suitable for planetary landers and rover.

An extensive trade-off of on various materials was carried out and supported by full material characterisation tests. Two insulation concepts were selected: foam and a gas gap.

The technical solutions are light weight, flexible and can be applied directly on the external/internal walls, wrapped around electrical cables and to mechanisms

The initial step of the analysis is represented by the definition of the GNSS capabilities and receiver requirements in the environment of interest. The service volume concept has been introduced to this aim, and recent studies pointed out the interest to define and include GNSS performance above the altitude of the constellation itself [1], [2]. It is well known that signals, even if primarily broadcast from GNSS sources in order to serve Earth surface and proximity (i.e. with a beam directed nadir), are available at a limited extent also above the constellation.