IGS-MGEX: Preparing the Ground for Multi-Constellation GNSS Science

With a total of four new and emerging constellations (BeiDou, Galileo, QZSS, IRN SS) as well as the ongoing modernization of GPS and GLONASS the world of satellite navigation presently experiences dramatic changes. Facing these challenges, the International GNSS Service (IGS) has initiated the Multi-GNSS Experiment (MGEX) to enable an early familiarization with the new systems and to prepare their incorporation into high-precision GNSS modeling and analysis. The paper reports on the status of the new constellations and the MGEX project as of September 2013. The offline and real-time segment of the multi-GNSS network built up so far are described and initial data products are presented. Recent results for individual systems are highlighted and necessary steps towards a comprehensive multi-GNSS service are identified.