Performance Evaluation of the New Control Center and Receiver Hardware for the CORS-TR System

Abstract. A Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) GNSS network is crucial for providing regional positioning services capable of delivering highly accurate, purpose-specific positioning. In CORS infrastructure, correction data is transmitted in real-time from the control center to the rover receiver (user side), enabling precise positioning of the rover in real-time (Singh and Kumar 2019). In the early 2000s, the engineering and scientific communities successfully incorporated Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning into their CORS networks, which were initially passive and static (Bock et al, 2002; Rizos et al., 2003; Eren, 2005; Rizos, 2007; Grejner-Brzezinska et al., 2007). This development marked a significant breakthrough in the concept and efficiency of positioning technologies. These enhanced networks, now known as RTK CORS or CORS-Active, distinguish themselves from the older passive CORS systems (Rizos et al, 2003, Wubbena et al, 2001, Retscher, 2002). The TUSAGA-Aktif system, known internationally as the Continuously Operating Reference Station-Turkey (CORS-TR), is a wide-area GNSS network that provides continuous RTK services over the whole of Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Operational since 2008, it was developed through a public project supported by Turkish Scientific and Technical Research Agency (TUBITAK) and managed by the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre (GDLRC). The aim of the project was to optimize system upgrades to acquired control center software and hardware are under rigorous testing, with preliminary results indicating accuracy comparable to the existing system while offering brand independence. This advancement has enabled the integration of additional GNSS stations, improving the coverage and reliability of the network. By expanding access to multiple satellite systems and achieving cost efficiencies, the upgraded system promises a more robust and efficient service that will effectively meet user needs. This paper presents a comparative analysis of the newly acquired control center software and hardware with the existing control center. The analysis emphasizes the advantages of the new system, particularly in terms of its flexibility and independence, while also identifying certain limitations. In the subsequent sections, the paper provides comprehensive information regarding the integration of the new software for TUSAGA-Aktif users and outlines how they can effectively utilize its features. These insights are intended to streamline the transition process and ensure that users can fully capitalize on the innovations introduced by the upgraded system.