Correcting refractive dilution of precision in wireless network geolocation estimates

Obtaining precise geolocation estimates for mobile devices requires knowledge of the local propagation velocity of light. Under common atmospheric conditions, incorrect propagation velocity estimates introduce systemic dilution of precision using time difference of arrival techniques. Modeling local propagation velocity as a function of common local meteorological variables yields corrected velocity estimates directly applicable to existing algorithms. In a simulated wireless network, matching the refractivity assumed in computing estimated positions to the simulated environmental refractivity shows some evidence that gains in accuracy and precision are achievable.