referentiestations

Referentiestations, commonly referred to in English as reference stations, are fixed geodetic observation points whose coordinates are known with high accuracy. They carry stable monumentation, dual or multi-frequency GNSS receivers, and antennas to continuously record satellite observations. The primary function is to provide a reference framework for nearby rovers or user receivers, enabling differential corrections and precise positioning.

In GNSS networks, referentiestations form permanent reference networks, such as Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) or regional networks like the European Permanent Network (EPN) and the International GNSS Service (IGS) network. Real-time or post-processed corrections are computed from the combined observations of many reference stations and are disseminated to users through communication links and standards such as NTRIP. This enables accurate positioning for surveying, mapping, and navigation activities over wide areas.

Coordinate frames and metadata are essential aspects of referentiestations. The station coordinates are tied to a conventional terrestrial reference frame (e.g., ITRF) and are periodically updated through reprocessing. Each station maintains detailed metadata, including the exact coordinate values, antenna type and phase centers, monument characteristics, time standard, data availability, and ancillary sensors such as meteorological instruments. Data quality control is routinely performed to ensure stability and reliability of the corrections.

Operation and maintenance considerations include ensuring monument stability, conducting periodic site surveys, calibrating antennas, and monitoring data integrity. Limitations can arise from local site changes, multipath and environmental conditions, data latency, and maintenance costs.

Applications of referentiestations include geodetic network adjustment, precise surveying, infrastructure monitoring, atmospheric research, and underpinning real-time positioning services globally.