Modelling Full-tensor Gravity Gradient Maps for Gravity Matching Navigation

A novel method of modelling full-tensor gravity gradient maps with computers was proposed for the requirement of current gravity matching navigation, and it could be used to calculate local gravity gradient maps from digital terrain data.Beginning with the theory of gravity gradient, the full-tensor gradient field anomalies from terrain fluctuation was analyzed, the cubic terrain blocks model was used, then with integral equations, every tensor anomalies from around terrain fluctuation could be calculated at the measure point.Based on it, gridding measurement should be simulated to obtain high-resolution full-tensor gravity gradient maps.The simulation tests and analysis show that, the gravity gradient maps gained with this method have a 10-2～10-1E precision, 8.27% comparative error, besides, a lot of detail and texture in the maps appears nice applicative potential in navigation.The contrast between the maps and the actual data illuminates that the both are ultimately accord with each other, thus the method presented is effective on modelling full-tensor gravity gradient maps.