In an Australian first, CRCSI researchers at RMIT have successfully demonstrated the performance of the Japanese Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) LEX signal for precise positioning. The research outcome is part of the wider CRCSI Positioning Program, which also recently announced the successful precise point positioning of merging GPS and Beidou systems.

LEX is a viable option for precise positioning and navigation in remote regions where GNSS CORS infrastructure is not available or is costly to establish. Geophysical studies, precision agriculture, airborne and hydrographic surveys are likely to benefit from its use.

The LEX signal is unique in that it has a high data transmission rate of 2kbps.  This allows GNSS correction data to be sent directly to the user’s receiver, providing centimetre-level point positioning accuracy in real-time.

The demonstration is significant as it shows QZSS LEX could be used to augment GPS and GNSS in providing instantaneous high accuracy positioning, anywhere, anytime in Australia.

The live demonstration was presented at the recent GNSS Symposium and was conducted in partnership with the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency.