PORTALE DELLA DIDATTICA

PORTALE DELLA DIDATTICA

PORTALE DELLA DIDATTICA

Elenco notifiche



Satellite Systems for Positioning and Maps

01VTEWY, 01VTEBH

A.A. 2025/26

Course Language

Inglese

Degree programme(s)

Master of science-level of the Bologna process in Ict Engineering For Smart Societies - Torino
Master of science-level of the Bologna process in Ict For Smart Societies (Ict Per La Societa' Del Futuro) - Torino

Course structure
Teaching Hours
Lezioni 42
Esercitazioni in laboratorio 18
Lecturers
Teacher Status SSD h.Les h.Ex h.Lab h.Tut Years teaching
Piras Marco   Professore Ordinario CEAR-04/A 18 0 24 0 1
Co-lectures
Espandi

Context
SSD CFU Activities Area context
ICAR/06
ING-INF/03
3
3
F - Altre attività (art. 10)
B - Caratterizzanti
Altre conoscenze utili per l'inserimento nel mondo del lavoro
Ingegneria delle telecomunicazioni
2025/26
A significant portion of political decisions is made based on spatial data, which provide essential knowledge about the land and built areas, as well as support for urban development planning and engineering processes. Human activities require positioning information and navigation capabilities to acquire 3D data in real-time for location finding or route tracking. Even in daily life, popular products like Google Earth are increasingly used for activity planning and organization. In the last two decades, the acquisition, processing, and representation techniques for spatial data have undergone significant advancements, thanks to the increased use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Methodologies involving 3D data acquisition and instrumentation have improved due to the adoption of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) like GPS, integrated inertial systems, satellite remote sensing, and earth observation technologies such as those featured by the Copernicus program. Digital images, largely collected by aircraft and drones, have also contributed to these advancements. Furthermore, novel processing techniques allow for the optimal integration of sensors, resulting in unprecedented land representation and data management using Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques. The ICT field must interface with skilled experts who work with georeferencing, processing, and visualizing spatial data. It is often necessary to develop software or firmware that meets the requirements of positioning/georeferencing accuracy, representation, and database organization for georeferenced data. This course provides the fundamental principles of acquisition, processing, plotting, and representation of spatial data to create ICT professionals capable of interacting with operators in the Geomatics field, supporting their knowledge and control of land and building areas.
Accurate positioning and mapping technologies are at the core of many modern applications, from urban planning and environmental monitoring to navigation, logistics, and consumer services. Today’s society increasingly relies on spatial data to inform political decisions, support engineering workflows, and enable mass-market solutions such as location-based services and mapping platforms like Google Earth. Over the past two decades, satellite-based technologies have revolutionized the way we acquire, process, and visualize geospatial information. This course introduces students to the fundamentals of satellite systems used for positioning and navigation, primarily Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) such as GPS and Galileo, and their integration with modern mapping technologies. Students will explore key concepts in GNSS signal processing and receiver technologies, along with techniques for 3D data acquisition, georeferencing, and spatial data integration. The course also covers complementary systems and sensors, satellite remote sensing, and Earth observations data from programs like Copernicus—and how these are combined to enhance positioning accuracy and map reliability. Digital imagery from aerial platforms and drones, along with Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, are examined as part of a broader ecosystem that supports spatial data analysis and decision-making. The course emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical skills, preparing students to develop or apply software and algorithms for precise geolocation, data visualization, and spatial database management. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to operate in multidisciplinary environments, bridging radionavigation satellite systems with geomatics applications and supporting decision-makers in managing land, infrastructure, and environmental resources.
The lectures cover theoretical principles of various measurement and spatial data acquisition techniques, statistical data analysis, and applications of Geomatics techniques in land surveying, building and civil engineering activities, mapping, monitoring, and land protection. The practical parts focus on developing operational skills based on theoretical knowledge. Students will learn to perform spatial measurements using the most up-to-date surveying techniques and manage various methods for acquiring positioning and navigation data while assessing their robustness against intrinsic impairments as well as unexpected intentional and unintentional disturbances. In this course, students will develop the ability to process on-field measurements. They will be presented with practical problems and required to autonomously develop computational procedures for implementing Geomatics applications, particularly those related to land and built area monitoring and representation. Students will acquire the skills to apply the knowledge gained in the ICT domain to navigation and mapping. They will develop the ability to implement calculation tools and procedures for positioning, representation, and visualization of spatial data in land and built area monitoring.
Students are expected to: • Understand the theoretical foundations of radionavigation satellite systems and modern spatial data acquisition techniques, including GNSS-based measurements, remote sensing, and geospatial data integration. • Gain practical experience with advanced surveying tools and methods for real-time positioning and mapping in land, infrastructure, and environmental applications. • Analyze the reliability and accuracy of positioning and navigation data, considering both inherent system limitations and external disturbances (e.g., signal obstructions, interference, or spoofing). • Develop the ability to autonomously design and implement algorithms for positioning, navigation, and geospatial data processing using real-world datasets. • Apply statistical and computational methods to evaluate and process field measurements for accurate representation and monitoring of land and built environments. • Build software tools and workflows for spatial data visualization and management, leveraging GIS and mapping technologies to support practical applications in civil engineering, urban planning, and land protection. This learning experience aims to produce professionals who are not only technically proficient in satellite systems and geomatics but also capable of developing innovative solutions for complex spatial challenges.
Signal analysis and processing, statistical data processing, software development, Matlab programming skills
Signal analysis and processing, statistical data processing, software development, Matlab programming skills
The course content encompasses two interconnected disciplines: • Satellites Systems for Positioning and Navigation • Surveying, Mapping and GIS Within these areas, lectures will cover the following topics: Fundamentals on Global Navigation Satellite Systems • Introduction and Fundamentals of Radionavigation • Error Sources and Modeling in GNSS State Estimation • Received Signal Power and Thermal Noise • Systems and Signals (Part I): Legacy Signal Architecture and GPS Signal Plan • Systems and Signals (Part II): Binary Offset Carrier Modulation and Galileo Signal Plan • Systems and Signals (Part III) • The GNSS Receiver: Acquisition and Tracking Stages • Pseudorange Measurement Computation at the Receiver Surveying, Mapping and GIS • GNSS Positioning: code and phase observations • GNSS Positioning methods in Surveying and Mapping • Network GNSS Augmentation • Introduction to Geodesy and Reference Systems • Cartography and Digital maps • Introduction to Remote sensing and Copernicus services • Innovative terrestrial and aerial technologies for geospatial data acquisition: • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
The course content encompasses two interconnected disciplines: • Satellites Systems for Positioning and Navigation • Surveying, Mapping and GIS Within these areas, lectures will cover the following topics: Fundamentals on Global Navigation Satellite Systems • Introduction and Fundamentals of Radionavigation • Error Sources and Modeling in GNSS State Estimation • Received Signal Power and Thermal Noise • Systems and Signals (Part I): Legacy Signal Architecture and GPS Signal Plan • Systems and Signals (Part II): Binary Offset Carrier Modulation and Galileo Signal Plan • Systems and Signals (Part III) • The GNSS Receiver: Acquisition and Tracking Stages • Pseudorange Measurement Computation at the Receiver Surveying, Mapping and GIS • GNSS Positioning: code and phase observations • GNSS Positioning methods in Surveying and Mapping • Network GNSS Augmentation • Introduction to Geodesy and Reference Systems • Cartography and Digital maps • Introduction to Remote sensing and Copernicus services • Innovative terrestrial and aerial technologies for geospatial data acquisition: • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
The course is designed with a dual focus: satellite systems for positioning and navigation, and techniques for surveying, geospatial data collection, mapping, and spatial data management. This integrated approach ensures students gain both the theoretical foundations and practical skills needed to operate in the modern geospatial domain. The program is organized into two main modules, each comprising 30 hours: • MODULE 1: Satellite Systems for Positioning and Navigation M: 24 hours of lectures + 6 hours of laboratory and fieldwork • MODULE 2: Surveying, Mapping, and GIS : 18 hours of lectures + 12 hours of laboratory and fieldwork Lectures combine theoretical insights with practical exercises, including the collection and post-processing of GNSS data using smartphones and MATLAB post-processing tools in both static and dynamic conditions. Students will work on tasks such as data plotting, 3D visualization, and position estimation using and modifying open-source tools. Field and lab activities involve the use of professional geomatics instruments and software, alongside customized scripts developed by students themselves. The course follows a “learning by doing” philosophy, empowering students to transform theoretical knowledge into hands-on competencies for real-world positioning and mapping challenges.
The course is designed with a dual focus: satellite systems for positioning and navigation, and techniques for surveying, geospatial data collection, mapping, and spatial data management. This integrated approach ensures students gain both the theoretical foundations and practical skills needed to operate in the modern geospatial domain. The program is organized into two main modules, each comprising 30 hours: • MODULE 1: Satellite Systems for Positioning and Navigation: 24 hours of lectures + 6 hours of laboratory and fieldwork • MODULE 2: Surveying, Mapping, and GIS : 18 hours of lectures + 12 hours of laboratory and fieldwork Lectures combine theoretical insights with practical exercises, including the collection and post-processing of GNSS data using smartphones and MATLAB post-processing tools in both static and dynamic conditions. Students will work on tasks such as data plotting, 3D visualization, and position estimation using and modifying open-source tools. Field and lab activities involve the use of professional geomatics instruments and software, alongside customized scripts developed by students themselves. The course follows a “learning by doing” philosophy, empowering students to transform theoretical knowledge into hands-on competencies for real-world positioning and mapping challenges.
Suggested books: • Hofmann-Wellenhof et al (2008) – GNSS Global Navigation Satellite system. Springer – New York. • Leick (2003) - Gps Satellite Surveying - J. Wiley – Canada. III Edizione. • Misra P., Enge P. Global Positioning System: Signals, Measurements, and Performance, Ganga-Jamuna press • F. Dovis, D. Margaria, P. Mulassano, F. Dominici, "Overview of Global Positioning Systems," in Handbook of Position Location: Theory, Practice, and Advances , IEEE, 2019, pp.655-705 doi: 10.1002/9781119434610.ch20 • L. Lo Presti, M. Fantino, M.Pini, "Digital Signal Processing for GNSS Receivers," in Handbook of Position Location: Theory, Practice, and Advances , IEEE, 2019, pp.707-761 doi: 10.1002/9781119434610.ch21 • N. Linty, F.Dovis "An overview on Global Positioning Techniques for Harsh Environments," in Handbook of Position Location: Theory, Practice, and Advances, IEEE, 2019, pp.839-881 doi: 10.1002/9781119434610.ch23 • Lecture notes and slides provided during the course, available on the website of teaching In-depth books • Cina, A. (2014). Dal GPS al GNSS per la geomatica. CELID, Torino. ISBN 978-8867890200 • Cina, A. (2002). Trattamento delle misure topografiche. CELID, Torino. ISBN 88-7661-534-2 • Comoglio, G. (2008). Topografia e cartografia. CELID, Torino • Global Navigation Satellite Systems: Signal, Theory and Applications, edited by Shuanggen Jin, ISBN 978-953-307-843-4, 438 pages, Publisher: InTech, (http://www.intechopen.com/books/global-navigation-satellite-systems-signal-theory-and-applications) • E. Falletti, G. Falco "Kalman Filter‐based Approaches for Positioning: Integrating Global Positioning with Inertial Sensors," in Handbook of Position Location: Theory, Practice, and Advances, IEEE, 2019, pp.763-838 doi: 10.1002/9781119434610.ch22 • Satellite Positioning - Methods, Models and Applications, Edited by Shuanggen Jin, ISBN 978-953-51-1738-4, 212 pages, Publisher: InTech, (http://www.intechopen.com/books/satellite-positioning-methods-models-and-applications • Dovis F. (ed), "GNSS Interference Threats and Countermeasures", Artech House, 2014, ISBN: 978-1-60807-810-3
Suggested books: • Hofmann-Wellenhof et al (2008) – GNSS Global Navigation Satellite system. Springer – New York. • Leick (2003) - Gps Satellite Surveying - J. Wiley – Canada. III Edizione. • Misra P., Enge P. Global Positioning System: Signals, Measurements, and Performance, Ganga-Jamuna press • F. Dovis, D. Margaria, P. Mulassano, F. Dominici, "Overview of Global Positioning Systems," in Handbook of Position Location: Theory, Practice, and Advances , IEEE, 2019, pp.655-705 doi: 10.1002/9781119434610.ch20 • L. Lo Presti, M. Fantino, M.Pini, "Digital Signal Processing for GNSS Receivers," in Handbook of Position Location: Theory, Practice, and Advances , IEEE, 2019, pp.707-761 doi: 10.1002/9781119434610.ch21 • N. Linty, F.Dovis "An overview on Global Positioning Techniques for Harsh Environments," in Handbook of Position Location: Theory, Practice, and Advances, IEEE, 2019, pp.839-881 doi: 10.1002/9781119434610.ch23 • Lecture notes and slides provided during the course, available on the website of teaching In-depth books • Cina, A. (2014). Dal GPS al GNSS per la geomatica. CELID, Torino. ISBN 978-8867890200 • Cina, A. (2002). Trattamento delle misure topografiche. CELID, Torino. ISBN 88-7661-534-2 • Comoglio, G. (2008). Topografia e cartografia. CELID, Torino • Global Navigation Satellite Systems: Signal, Theory and Applications, edited by Shuanggen Jin, ISBN 978-953-307-843-4, 438 pages, Publisher: InTech, (http://www.intechopen.com/books/global-navigation-satellite-systems-signal-theory-and-applications) • E. Falletti, G. Falco "Kalman Filter‐based Approaches for Positioning: Integrating Global Positioning with Inertial Sensors," in Handbook of Position Location: Theory, Practice, and Advances, IEEE, 2019, pp.763-838 doi: 10.1002/9781119434610.ch22 • Satellite Positioning - Methods, Models and Applications, Edited by Shuanggen Jin, ISBN 978-953-51-1738-4, 212 pages, Publisher: InTech, (http://www.intechopen.com/books/satellite-positioning-methods-models-and-applications • Dovis F. (ed), "GNSS Interference Threats and Countermeasures", Artech House, 2014, ISBN: 978-1-60807-810-3
Slides; Libro di testo; Esercizi; Esercitazioni di laboratorio; Strumenti di auto-valutazione;
Lecture slides; Text book; Exercises; Lab exercises; Self-assessment tools;
Modalità di esame: Prova orale obbligatoria; Elaborato progettuale in gruppo; Prova scritta in aula tramite PC con l'utilizzo della piattaforma di ateneo;
Exam: Compulsory oral exam; Group project; Computer-based written test in class using POLITO platform;
... Compulsory oral exam; Individual project report; Computer-based written test in class using POLITO platform; The exam is organized into two parts: • A preliminary multiple-choice test (duration: 30 minutes) • An oral discussion about the course topics (duration: 20 minutes) The report on the lab activities contributes to the final grade of the exam. Multiple-Choice Test (mandatory) The multiple-choice test consists of 10 questions (5 on MODULE 1 and 5 on MODULE 2) covering the course topics. Each correct answer awards 3 points, with penalties for incorrect answers. A minimum of 18 points is required to proceed to the oral exam. The test is conducted using the student's laptop to access the online platform. Oral Exam (mandatory) The oral exam assesses knowledge of theoretical concepts in positioning, spatial data acquisition, and GIS, as well as the ability to apply these concepts to solve positioning and navigation problems. The oral exam includes at least two questions on MODULE 1 and two questions on MODULE 2. Both sections contribute equally to the final grade, and a positive mark (>18/30) is required in each section. Laboratory Report (mandatory) Each student must submit an individual report on the laboratory activities completed during the course. This report is scored on a scale from -1 to +2 points, which are added to the oral exam score. A score of -1 is given for non-submission or very poor quality, while higher scores consider the student’s ability to solve lab tasks, the completeness of the work, the quality of the report (organization, quality of figures, correctness of solutions, etc.), and the methodology used. Reports must be uploaded to the "portale della didattica" within one week after the lectures end, following the deadlines set by the teachers. The report is valid until the next academic year's course session. Final Grade Composition: • Multiple-choice test: 1/3 of the final grade • Oral exam: 2/3 of the final grade • Bonus: -1 to +2 additional points for the laboratory report Laude is awarded to students who achieve a final grade of 30 or higher and demonstrate excellent proficiency in the course disciplines and topics during the oral discussion Study materials such as books, slides, or other resources are NOT allowed during the exams.
Gli studenti e le studentesse con disabilità o con Disturbi Specifici di Apprendimento (DSA), oltre alla segnalazione tramite procedura informatizzata, sono invitati a comunicare anche direttamente al/la docente titolare dell'insegnamento, con un preavviso non inferiore ad una settimana dall'avvio della sessione d'esame, gli strumenti compensativi concordati con l'Unità Special Needs, al fine di permettere al/la docente la declinazione più idonea in riferimento alla specifica tipologia di esame.
Exam: Compulsory oral exam; Group project; Computer-based written test in class using POLITO platform;
Compulsory oral exam; Individual project report; Computer-based written test in class using POLITO platform; The exam is organized into two parts: • A preliminary multiple-choice test (duration: 30 minutes) • An oral discussion about the course topics (duration: 20 minutes) Multiple-Choice Test (mandatory) The multiple-choice test consists of 10 questions (5 on MODULE 1 and 5 on MODULE 2) covering the course topics. Each correct answer awards 3 points, with penalties for incorrect answers. A minimum of 18 points is required to proceed to the oral exam. The test is conducted using the student's laptop to access the online platform. Oral Exam (mandatory) The oral exam assesses knowledge of theoretical concepts in positioning, spatial data acquisition, and GIS, as well as the ability to apply these concepts to solve positioning and navigation problems. The oral exam includes at least two questions on MODULE 1 and two questions on MODULE 2. Both sections equally contribute to the final grade, and a positive mark (>18/30) is required in each section. Laboratory Report (mandatory) Each student attending the course for the first time must submit an individual report on the laboratory activities completed during the course. This report is scored on a scale from -1 to +2 points, which are added to the oral exam score. A score of -1 is given for very poor quality, while higher scores consider the student’s ability to solve lab tasks, the completeness of the work, the quality of the report (organization, quality of figures, correctness of solutions, etc.), and the methodology used. Reports must be uploaded to the "portale della didattica" within one week after the lectures end, following the deadlines set by the teachers. The report is valid and contributes to the final grade of the exam until the next academic year's course session. In case of "NO SUBMISSION", a negative score (-5) will be applied to the final grade and it will be considered for all sessions. Final Grade Composition: • Multiple-choice test: 1/3 of the final grade • Oral exam: 2/3 of the final grade • Bonus for submitted report : -1 to +2 additional points for the laboratory report • Penalty for unsubmitted report : -5 Laude is awarded to students who achieve a final grade of 30 or higher and demonstrate excellent proficiency in the course disciplines and topics during the oral discussion Study materials such as books, slides, or other resources are NOT allowed during the exams.
In addition to the message sent by the online system, students with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) are invited to directly inform the professor in charge of the course about the special arrangements for the exam that have been agreed with the Special Needs Unit. The professor has to be informed at least one week before the beginning of the examination session in order to provide students with the most suitable arrangements for each specific type of exam.
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