Inauguration of 'Sagar Sampark' DGNSS by Sarbananda Sonowal

Tags: Science and Technology

Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, inaugurated the 'Sagar Sampark' Differential Global Navigation Satellite System (DGNSS) to strengthen the maritime sector in India.

An Overview of the News

Background and Importance of the DGNSS System:

• The DGNSS system is a terrestrial-based enhancement system that corrects errors and inaccuracies in the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), providing more accurate positioning information. 

• It helps mariners navigate safely and reduces the risk of collisions, groundings, and accidents in port and harbour areas.

Enhancing Maritime Sector Capability with 'Sagar Sampark':

• The launch of 'Sagar Sampark - Differential Global Navigation Satellite System' at six locations enhances the capability of the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL) in the field of Radio Aids to Marine Navigation. 

• This initiative reflects the Ministry's commitment to innovation, infrastructure development, and strengthening the Indian Maritime sector.

Benefits of the DGNSS System for Safe Navigation:

• The DGNSS system provides more accurate information to ships, enabling safe navigation and efficient movement of vessels. 

• It significantly improves the accuracy of GPS positioning by reducing errors caused by atmospheric interferences, satellite clock drift, and other factors.

Fulfilling International Obligations and Standards:

• The DGNSS system aligns with the international obligations of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), and the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA). 

• It serves as an important Radio Aid to Navigation, ensuring compliance with international standards.

Advanced Features of the DGNSS System:

• The DGNSS system incorporates multiple satellite constellations, including GPS and Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS), increasing availability and redundancy. 

• It utilizes modern technology receivers and advanced software to transmit corrections, improving positioning accuracy within a range of 5 meters.

Improved Error Correction and Positioning Accuracy:

• The latest DGNSS system achieves higher accuracy in GPS positioning by significantly reducing errors. 

• It corrects atmospheric interferences, satellite clock drift, and other factors that affect accuracy. 

• The system's error correction accuracy has been improved from 5 to 10 meters to less than 5 meters for 100 nautical miles from the Indian coastlines.