The `STARFIX´ satellite navigation system

STARFIX is a privately owned and operated positioning system, which became operational in early 1986 after three years of development effort. STARFIX is a 24 hour-a-day positioning system encompassing the continental US and up to 500 miles offshore with a 5 meter 2 DRMS accuracy. In 1988 STARFIX has worked for every major oil company and seismic contractor, primarily in the Gulf of Mexico. The authors describe the operation of the STARFIX system and supply a comparison of STARFIX to SYLEDIS and differential GPS. Its proposed extension to Europe is described together with a mention of possible future development