A new activity with GSTP Element 1 and Romania has developed a GNSS receiver based on COTS components that can achieve positioning accuracy to less than 10 cm without trading a loss in robustness.

Called OrbFIX, this GNSS receiver for space can produce high positioning precision in the vital low volume, mass and power consumption required for small satellites. At the same time, it is being produced for low cost, making it affordable despite its advanced technology.

After successfully concluding the Preliminary Design Review, the very promising receiver was tested to withstand radiation, in a thermal-vacuum chamber, in a stratospheric balloon and in a GNSS simulator, replicating operations in a Low-Earth Orbit.

Next, the OrbFIX receiver will be developed up to TRL 8, going through critical design, testing and qualification procedures.