Interference localization for EUTELSAT satellites–the first european transmitter location system

In order to combat the problem of interference on EUTELSAT satellites, a study was let to the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA), Defford, UK. This study investigated transmitter location using two-satellite techniques; time difference of arrival (TDOA) and frequency difference of arrival (FDOA). The study produced predictions that interference could be located to tens of km using pairs of EUTELSAT II satellites in north/south stationkept orbits. If a satellite in an inclined orbit, such as a EUTELSAT I, was used, the interference could be located an order of magnitude more accurately. The dominant cause of location error was found to be the satellite ephemeris accuracy in predicting velocity. The theoretical findings were backed up with a successful measurement campaign which targeted both test signals from a known location and operational traffic. © British Crown Copyright 1997/DERA.