Abstract ATM-9522074 Clayton, JoAnn National Academy of Sciences Title: Optimizing the Differential Global Positioning System Infrastructure for Scientific Applications A variety of civil, commercial, and scientific organizations currently are establishing ground-based differential networks to provide the basic infrastructure for generation and dissemination of Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) data. These differential stations will provide data not available from the basic DOT/DOD-managed civil GPS signal. These data include corrections to GPS position errors; high accuracy orbit information; corrections for the intentional degradation of the civil signal, ionospheric errors, and clock and ephemeris errors; and provide integrity information. An opportunity now exists to optimize the usefulness of the data produced from DGPS networks for scientific applications. Considerations for future GPS infrastructure include specification and standardization of receiver equipment, testing, documentation, error reduction, real- time data communications, analysis software development, and data management and archiving. To maximize the value of emerging DPGS networks for scientific applications, the NRC/ASEB in cooperation with several other NRC units, proposes to bring together in a workshop a select group of scientists, engineers, and researchers, as well as representatives from federal agencies. The goal of the workshop will be to discuss DGPS plans and objectives and develop options for improving communication and coordination among the scientific DPGS users and network operators. A steering committee of six experts will be appointed to develop the workshop program and oversee the preparation of the proceedings of the workshop, which will include a thematic summary of the discussion. This workshop is important because it will enhance the scientific benefit from the rapidly emerging GPS technology.
