Analysis of positioning methods using Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) in Polish State Railways (PKP)

Each year, global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) improve their accuracy, availability, continuity, integrity, and reliability. Due to these continual improvements, the systems are increasingly used in various modes of transport, including rail transport, the subject of this publication. GNSS are used for rail passenger information, rail traffic management, and rail traffic control. These applications differ in the positioning requirements that satellite navigation systems must meet. This article presents the methods and systems of rolling stock location and tracking using the Polish State Railways (PKP) as an example. The information on the equipment used for train positioning is not specified anywhere, hence they may differ, even for the same multiple units travelling in different parts of the country. In addition, the publication presents the progress of the European Train Control System (ETCS) implementation by the PKP.