A Novel Method for Extending GPS to Underwater Applications

The need for accuracy, precision, and data registration in underwater positioning and navigation should be viewed as no less stringent than that existing on the surface or in the aerospace environment. This paper proposes a system that can be used to provide navigation service to free-ranging underwater users. This system uses buoys that act as roving pseudolites and translate GPS radio-based service to an acoustic-based service under water. Using this service, an unlimited number of users can independently locate themselves and navigate. Underwater extensions of Loran, Omega, or other radio-based navigation systems are also amenable to the technique.