On Global Navigation Satellite Systems: a primer for ecologists

Abstract

The emerging of Global Navigation Satellite Systems or GNSS in 1974, with the first GPS system, has led to a strong change in field work methods. Currently, GNSS receivers are basic tools for many researchers. Despite this, many people ignore the basic aspects of the operation of these satellite positioning systems, despite the fact that in researches focused on the analysis of biodiversity or other environmental aspects, these may have methodological repercussions. Issues related to new satellite constellations, accuracy, error sources or receiver types must be taken into account when collecting field data or identifying the most appropriate equipment for the objectives of a specific study. For this reason, this communication presents the basic aspects of current GNSS technology, which should be known by the field researchers who use them. The basic concepts of this field and elements about its precisions and sources of error are offered. These elements should be considered when using these systems in scientific research.