Introducing the TopStar Galileo core modules, designed to deliver sovereignty and resilience to GNSS receivers
© Thales
Thales has a message for its fellow European industry players developing GNSS receivers, whether for military or governmental use: we can provide you with a standardised, easy-to-integrate Galileo core module to help turn your concept into an accurate and resilient reality!
The TopStar Galileo core module is the technological breakthrough that makes this possible. Proposed in two versions, these small-form-factor Galileo OS (Open Service) or PRS (Public Regulated Service) sensors are a vital addition to enhanced GNSS receivers and resilient multi-sensor navigation systems, ensuring safer and more reliable satellite-based navigation.
The Galileo PRS Core Module integrates a certified, single-chip, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) Security Module that incorporates all the necessary Galileo PRS security and navigation functions. It provides dual-frequency (E1/E6) iono-free Galileo PRS positioning, velocity and timing services. It also provides pseudo-range and delta pseudo-range raw data, along with GPS C/A (Coarse Acquisition).
Standardised and easy to integrate
David Pietin, Military Navigation Product Line Manager at Thales, explains: “This low-SWaP (size, weight and power) digital solution has been designed to work with any European GNSS receiver manufacturer seeking a standardised, easy-to-integrate Galileo module with which to develop their own GNSS receiver. Our core modules can meet the requirements of a wide range of applications for manned or unmanned vehicles, combat aircraft, helicopters, high-dynamic missiles, and the navy. Their small form factor also makes them suitable for platforms with size constraints, such as ground vehicles, small drones and guided munitions.”
The modules feature standardised interfaces, enabling the Galileo PRS function to be easily integrated into the host system. Furthermore, the TopStar Galileo core module can be embedded with minimum impact by using the analog RF (Radio Frequency) Front End of the host receiver.
© Thales
David Pietin outlines that there are two types of module available and designed as plug & play for higher modularity: “The Galileo OS core module version enables the early integration of Galileo functionalities into the host system, as well as export to countries not authorised to use PRS. The PRS core module version, meanwhile, provides an easy upgrade to Public Regulated Service capability, offering greater resilience against jamming and crucial protection against spoofing.”
Thales occupies a unique position in this field as the only French and European company able to provide a low-SWaP ASIC-based solution. Looking forward, David adds: “We are excited about the prospect of sharing this plug & play technological asset by partnering with GNSS receiver manufacturers in Europe and supporting the integration of our Galileo core modules into third-party receiver designs. Feel free to reach out!”