An Augmented GPS/EGNOS Localization System for Alpine Rescue Teams Based on a VHF Communication Infrastructure.

This paper describes the work performed in the design of a network-based positioning system exploiting the advantages of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay System (EGNOS) tailored to support operation of Alpine Rescue Teams in the management of search and rescue operations. The positioning system is based on the raw pseudorange measurements collected by the users and transmitted to a Local Element over cellular or VHF radio channels. This latter exploits frequencies reserved for rescue teams and ensures good coverage in mountain environments. The results demonstrate that the system fully exploits the improvement given by the EGNOS signals, ensuring a suitable level of accuracy in the positioning for a larger time with respect to standalone GPS positioning.