The GLONASS satellite system, a global navigation system from Russia, consists of 24 satellites orbiting Earth. This system is comparable to the GPS system from the United States. The satellites operate in three orbital planes, with eight satellites on each plane. The system covers the entire globe, providing real-time positioning and velocity data for various applications, including navigation and timekeeping. The GLONASS system operates at two frequency bands: L1 and L2. Signals at L1 frequency carry the standard precision code, while L2 is used for additional accuracy. GLONASS satellites broadcast different frequencies using FDMA (Frequency Division Multiple Access), which differs from CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) utilised by GPS. GLONASS accuracy is similar to that of GPS, with positioning accuracy within five to seven metres. However, the combination of GLONASS and GPS can offer improved accuracy in northern latitudes. Despite being fully operational, the GLONASS system has faced challenges, including limited global coverage and signal strength. However, ongoing modernisation efforts aim to improve the system's performance and reliability.
