Date of Award

12-1996

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

First Advisor

Martin R. Stytz, PhD

Abstract

The Solar System Modeler (SM) extends the Space Modeler developed in 1994. It provides a virtual environment enabling an explorer to dynamically investigate near Earth satellites, deep space probes, planets, moons, and other celestial phenomena. The explorer navigates the virtual environment via mouse selected options from menu panels while wearing a tracked, head mounted display (HMD). Alternatively, a monitor may replace the HMD and keyboard controls replace head tracking. The SM's functionality is extended by the ability to broadcast simulated GPS satellite transmissions in compliance with Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) protocol standards. The transmissions include information found in true GPS broadcasts that is required for a receiver to determine its location. The Virtual GPS Receiver (VGPSR) receives the GPS transmissions from the SM and computes the receiver's position with a realistic error based on numerous variables simulating those encountered in the real GPS system. The VGPSR is designed as a plug-in module for simulations requiring virtual navigation. The receiver's client application provides the VGPSR with the simulation time and the true position of the receiver. In return, the application receives a GPS indicated position.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GCS-ENG-96D-29

DTIC Accession Number

ADA321573

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