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The Toolbox — Standards

GPS & Satellite

GPS constellation specifications, accuracy standards, HDOP reference, and satellite navigation frequencies.

SpecificationValue / Notes
GPS constellationMinimum 24 operational satellites, 6 orbital planes
GPS orbital altitude20,200 km
GPS orbital period12 hours (2 orbits per day)
GPS L1 frequency1575.42 MHz
GPS L2 frequency1227.60 MHz
GPS L5 frequency1176.45 MHz
Minimum satellites for 2D fix3 satellites
Minimum satellites for 3D fix4 satellites
Standalone GPS accuracy (post-SA)Approximately 3–5 meters CEP
DGPS accuracy1–3 meters
HDOP — idealLess than 2
HDOP — acceptable2–5
HDOP — poorGreater than 6
NMEA 0183 default baud rate4800 baud
NMEA 2000 data rate250 kbps
INMARSAT geostationary altitude35,786 km
INMARSAT coverage limitApproximately 76°N to 76°S latitude
GLONASS L1 frequency1602.000 MHz
Galileo E1 frequency1575.420 MHz (shares GPS L1)
BeiDou B1 frequency1561.098 MHz
COSPAS-SARSAT detection frequency406.028 MHz
COSPAS-SARSAT homing frequency121.500 MHz
AIS Channel 1161.975 MHz (Ch 87B)
AIS Channel 2162.025 MHz (Ch 88B)