CORS Network Design and Performance Evaluation in Ethiopia

The establishment of the Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) network as a national positioning service enables high precision in surveying, mapping, and navigation applications due to developments in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology. In this study, we determined the first CORS network locations in Ethiopia by taking into account factors such as accessibility, internet coverage, and the strength of the network geometry. We chose locations for about 228 stations for Ethiopia considering these factors. The real-time CORS network’s performance was validated using a network of triangles as a reference station and a virtual reference station (VRS) within the triangles. To validate the performance of the selected networks, simultaneous GNSS observations were conducted on the reference and virtual stations. We applied Wav2 software to generate GNSS observation data on VRS locations utilizing precise coordinates of reference stations processed using Bernese 5.2 GNSS software. Both the measured and generated GNSS data on VRS were compared after processing using the same software to estimate their precise coordinates. The comparison indicated standard deviations of 0.65 and 2.7 cm in the horizontal and upward directions, respectively. Therefore, this CORS network design can be used for applications that requires a three-dimensional accuracy of less than 3 cm in the central part of Ethiopia where this validation took place.

The domains of surveying, infrastructure development, and geospatial engineering can all benefit greatly from this study’s practical applications. For many uses, such as land surveying, environmental monitoring, and urban planning, precise and dependable geospatial data is provided via the Continuous Operating Reference Stations (CORS) network. Professionals may increase measurement accuracy, boost data gathering efficiency, and make it easier to integrate cutting-edge technologies like global positioning system and geographic information systems (GIS) by setting up a well-designed CORS network. In addition, this network may benefit many industries, such as transportation, agriculture, and disaster relief, by providing dependable positioning services that facilitate efficient resource allocation and decision-making. Additionally, the study’s performance evaluation component emphasizes how critical it is to keep an eye on and optimize the operation of the CORS network. Maintaining dependable geospatial data services requires the CORS network to run at optimal efficiency as Ethiopia develops its urban areas and infrastructure. The study’s conclusions can help engineers and legislators make well-informed decisions on the installation and upkeep of CORS stations, which will eventually improve public safety and location-based service accuracy. Beyond academic study, the practical consequences of this effort go beyond; they provide the groundwork for future infrastructure and technology investments that will support Ethiopia’s growth and development in a constantly evolving technological landscape.