GNSS navigation course for drones

About our

The GNSS Navigation in Drones course delves into the use of GNSS systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou) for the precise control and positioning of drones. It covers error correction and mitigation techniques, including RTK and PPK, and their implementation in the planning and execution of autonomous flights. The course addresses the integration of GNSS data with other sensors and systems, such as IMUs and cameras, for applications like aerial mapping, precision agriculture, and surveillance.

Hands-on training is provided in the configuration and calibration of GNSS equipment, data processing, and results interpretation. Emphasis is placed on current regulations and best practices to ensure safety and accuracy in drone operations, preparing participants for roles such as GNSS-specialized drone pilots, GNSS data processing technicians, and drone application specialists.

GNSS navigation course for drones

750 $

Competencies and results

What you will learn

1. Mastering GNSS Navigation in Drones: Essential Skills

  • Understand the fundamentals of GNSS navigation (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo) applied to drones: signals, accuracy, and sources of error.

  • Configure and calibrate GNSS systems on drones: antennas, receivers, and parameter settings to optimize performance.

  • Plan autonomous flight missions using GNSS data: route design, waypoints, and operating areas.

  • Acquire and process GNSS data to improve navigation accuracy and reliability: differential correction techniques (DGPS, RTK, PPK).

  • Use specialized software to analyze and visualize GNSS data from drones: data quality assessment and report generation.

  • Identify and troubleshoot common problems related to GNSS navigation in drones: interference, signal loss, and positioning errors.

  • Apply GNSS navigation in various drone applications: mapping, inspection, precision agriculture, and search and rescue.

  • Comply with current regulations and standards related to the use of drones and GNSS navigation.

2. Rotor Evaluation and Performance: Key Fundamentals

  • Identify and understand fundamental aerodynamic and structural couplings in rotors, including flap-lag-torsion modes, whirl flutter instabilities, and fatigue mechanisms.
  • Apply finite element analysis (FEA) principles for the dimensioning and design of laminated components made of composite materials, as well as for the analysis of structural and bonded joints.
  • Integrate damage tolerance strategies into rotor design and become familiar with non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques, such as ultrasonic testing (UT), radiography (RT), and thermography, for the inspection and evaluation of structural integrity.

3. Comprehensive user-oriented design and validation (from modeling to manufacturing)

You will learn to integrate the entire product development process, from initial model conception to final validation, applying user-centered methodologies. You will develop skills in parametric design, ergonomics, simulation, sustainable materials, 3D visualization, and manufacturing management, ensuring efficient, safe solutions that meet current industry standards.

3. GNSS Navigation for Drones: Essential Capabilities

  • Fundamentals of GNSS Navigation Systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou).
  • Operating Principles of GNSS Receivers and Their Components.
  • Configuration and Calibration of GNSS Systems in Drones.
  • Integration of GNSS Data with Other Sensors (IMU, Barometer, etc.).
  • Error Mitigation and Accuracy Techniques in GNSS Navigation.
  • Planning and Designing Flight Missions Using GNSS Data.
  • Analysis of the Influence of the Environment on the GNSS Signal (Multipath, Interference).
  • Practical Applications of GNSS Navigation in Drones: Agriculture, Inspection, Mapping.
  • Legislation and Regulations Related to the Use of Drones and GNSS.
  • Troubleshooting and troubleshooting GNSS systems in drones.

5. GNSS Navigation in Drones: Key Skills and Applications

5. GNSS Navigation in Drones: Key Skills and Applications

  • Fundamentals of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS): GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou.
  • Operating principles of GNSS receivers for drones: antennas, signals, data processing.
  • Accuracy and precision in GNSS navigation: influencing factors, errors, and corrections.
  • Integrating GNSS with other sensors: IMU, barometers, airspeed sensors.
  • Advanced navigation techniques: RTK, PPK, and their application in drones.
  • Planning and executing flight missions with GNSS: routes, control points, geofences.
  • Practical applications of GNSS navigation in drones: precision agriculture, mapping, inspection, Surveillance.
  • GNSS Data Analysis: Processing, Visualization, and Results Analysis.

    Legislation and Regulations on the Use of Drones and GNSS Navigation.

    Future Trends in GNSS Navigation for Drones: New Technologies and Emerging Applications.

6. GNSS Navigation in Drones: Technical Fundamentals and Applications

6. GNSS Navigation in Drones: Technical Fundamentals and Applications

  • Understand the fundamental principles of satellite navigation (GNSS).
  • Identify the most commonly used GNSS systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou).
  • Analyze the architecture and operation of GNSS receivers in drones.
  • Evaluate error sources and mitigation techniques in GNSS navigation.
  • Master the concepts of positioning, navigation, and synchronization (PNT).
  • Study GNSS integration techniques with other sensors (IMU, barometer, etc.).
  • Apply GNSS navigation to different types of drones (multirotors, fixed-wing).
  • Configure and calibrate GNSS systems in drones for optimal performance.
  • Develop skills in the Planning and execution of autonomous flights with GNSS.

    Exploring the practical applications of GNSS navigation in drones (agriculture, inspection, etc.).

    Using GNSS simulation and data analysis software.

    Understanding the regulations and standards related to the use of drones and GNSS.

Who this program is for:

GNSS navigation course for drones

  • Graduates in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related fields.
  • Professionals in OEM rotorcraft/eVTOL, MRO, consulting, and technology centers.
  • Flight Testing, certification, avionics, control, and dynamics seeking specialization.
  • Regulators/authorities and UAM/eVTOL professionals requiring compliance skills.

Recommended requirements: foundation in aerodynamics and control and structures; ES/EN B2+/C1. We offer bridging tracks if you need them.

  • Standards-driven curriculum: you will work with CS-27/CS-29, DO-160, DO-178C/DO-254, ARP4754A/ARP4761, ADS-33E-PRF from the first module.
  • Accreditable laboratories (EN ISO/IEC 17025) with rotor bench, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL, vibrations/acoustics.
  • Evidence-oriented TFM: safety case, test plan, compliance dossierand operational limits.
  • Mentored by industry: teachers with experience in rotorcraft, tiltrotor, eVTOL/UAM and flight test.
  • Flexible modality (hybrid/online), international cohorts and support from SEIUM Career Services.
  • Ethics and security: safety-by-design approach, cyber-OT, DIH and compliance as pillars.

Module 2 — Mastering GNSS Navigation in Drones: Essential Skills

2.1 Introduction to GNSS Navigation: Basic Concepts and Principles

2.2 GNSS System Components: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou

2.3 GNSS Receiver Operation: Signal Acquisition and Processing

2.4 Errors and Sources of Error in GNSS: Ionosphere, Troposphere, Multipath Error

2.5 Augmentation Systems: SBAS, DGPS, RTK

2.6 Integrating GNSS in Drones: Sensors and Inertial Navigation Systems (INS)

2.7 Calibration and Configuration of GNSS Receivers for Drones

2.8 Interpreting GNSS Data: Position, Speed, Time, and Accuracy 2.9 Practical Skills: Setting up and using flight planning software.

2.10 Practical Applications: Mapping, precision agriculture, and surveillance.

Module 3 — Rotor Evaluation and Performance: Key Fundamentals

3.1 Introduction to Rotor Aerodynamics: Basic concepts and principles.

3.2 Thrust Disk Theory: Analyzing the rotor as an acting disk.

3.3 Rotor Blade Design: Airfoils and geometry.

3.4 Rotor Airflow Analysis: Velocity distribution.

3.5 Rotor Performance: Thrust, power, and efficiency.

3.6 Airspeed Effects: Ground effect and autorotation.

3.7 Rotor Selection: Design and optimization criteria.

3.8 Rotor Performance Testing and Measurement: Test benches and sensors. 3.9 Rotor Performance Simulation: Software and Analysis Tools

3.10 Practical Applications: Optimizing Rotor Design for Drones

Module 4 — GNSS Navigation in Drones: Comprehensive Learning

4.1 Review of GNSS Fundamentals: Key Concepts and Systems

4.2 Drones and Navigation Systems: Integration and Considerations

4.3 Navigation Sensors: IMU, Compasses, and Barometers

4.4 Advanced Augmentation Systems: RTK and PPK

4.5 Configuring GNSS Equipment for Drones: Parameter Selection and Adjustment

4.6 GNSS Flight Planning: Route and Flight Zone Design

4.7 GNSS Flight Operations: Techniques and Procedures

4.8 GNSS Data Processing: Data Correction and Analysis 4.9 Problem Solving: Detecting and resolving common errors.

4.10 Case Studies: Applications in different industries.

Module 5 — GNSS Navigation for Drones: Essential Capabilities

5.1 Introduction to GNSS Navigation: Review of key concepts.

5.2 Essential Components of the GNSS System: Satellites and receivers.

5.3 Operation of the GNSS Receiver: Signal acquisition and tracking.

5.4 Sources of Error: Factors affecting accuracy.

5.5 Augmentation Systems: Improving accuracy and reliability.

5.6 Integration with Drone Systems: Sensors and flight control.

5.7 GNSS Receiver Configuration: Parameters and settings.

5.8 Flight Planning: Route design and considerations.

5.9 Flight Operations: Procedures and best practices. 5.10 Data Processing: Analysis and Error Correction

Module 6 — GNSS Navigation in Drones: Key Skills and Applications

6.1 GNSS Fundamentals Review: Essential Principles and Systems

6.2 Drone Navigation Systems: Components and Operation

6.3 Equipment Selection and Configuration: Receivers and Antennas

6.4 Mission Planning: Routes, Control Points, and Restricted Areas

6.5 Flight Techniques: Position Control and Tracking

6.6 RTK and PPK Augmentation Systems: Applications and Benefits

6.7 Data Processing: Analysis, Correction, and Export

6.8 Mapping and Surveying Applications: 3D Model Generation

6.9 Precision Agriculture Applications: Crop Monitoring

6.10 Case Studies: Implementation in Different Sectors

Module 7 — GNSS Navigation in Drones: Technical Fundamentals and Applications

7.1 Fundamentals of GNSS Systems: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou.

7.2 Technical Operation of the GNSS Receiver: Signal Acquisition.

7.3 GNSS Errors: Sources, Causes, and Mitigation.

7.4 Augmentation Systems: SBAS, DGPS, RTK, and PPK.

7.5 Integration with Drone Systems: Hardware and Software.

7.6 Configuration and Calibration: Parameter and Antenna Adjustment.

7.7 Mission Planning: Route Design and Safety Considerations.

7.8 Flight Operations: Real-Time Control and Monitoring.

7.9 Data Processing: Post-Flight Correction and Analysis.

7.10 Applications in Various Industries: Mapping, Inspection, and Agriculture.

Module 8 — GNSS Mastery for Drones: Advanced Navigation

8.1 GNSS Fundamentals Review: Essential Concepts and Systems

8.2 Advanced GNSS Reception Techniques: Error Mitigation

8.3 Advanced Augmentation Systems: RTK, PPK, and VRS

8.4 Integration with IMUs and Inertial Navigation Systems

8.5 Advanced Mission Planning: Complex Routes and Restricted Areas

8.6 Flight Operations in Challenging Environments: Urban and Mountainous Areas

8.7 Advanced Data Processing: Correction, Analysis, and Georeferencing

8.8 Specialized Software and Tools: Using Processing Software

8.9 Performance Optimization: Improving Accuracy and Efficiency

8.10 Case Studies: Implementation in Complex Projects

Module 9 — GNSS Navigation in Drones: Mastery and Strategic Applications

9.1 In-depth GNSS Fundamentals: Review of systems and principles.

9.2 Error Analysis and Solutions: Sources and correction methods.

9.3 Strategic Augmentation Systems: RTK, PPK, and their implementation.

9.4 Integration with Different Types of Drones: Technical considerations.

9.5 Strategic Mission Planning: Route design and optimization.

9.6 Operations in Complex Environments: Overcoming challenges.

9.7 Data Processing for Accurate Results: Analysis and adjustments.

9.8 Applications in Key Sectors: Case studies in mapping, agriculture, etc.

9.9 Regulatory and Legal Framework: Regulations and best practices. 9.10 Future of GNSS Navigation in Drones: Trends and technological advances.

2.2 eVTOL and UAM: Electric Propulsion, Multiple Rotors

2.2 Emerging Certification Requirements (SC-VTOL, Special Conditions)

2.3 Energy and Thermal in E-Propulsion (Batteries/Inverters)

2.4 Design for Maintainability and Modular Swaps

2.5 LCA/LCC in Rotorcraft and eVTOL (Footprint and Cost)

2.6 Operations & Vertiports: Airspace Integration

2.7 Data & Digital Thread: MBSE/PLM for Change Control

2.8 Tech Risk and Readiness: TRL/CRL/SRL

2.9 IP, Certifications, and Time-to-Market

2.20 Case Study: Go/No-Go with Risk Matrix

3.3 GNSS Principles: Theoretical Foundations and Operation.

3.2 Components of a GNSS System: Receivers, Antennas, and Processors.

3.3 Geodetic Reference Systems and Datums: WGS84 and Others.

3.4 Positioning Concepts: Trilateration and Distance Measurement.

3.5 Sources of Error in GNSS: Ionosphere, Troposphere, Multipath.

3.6 Error Mitigation Techniques: SBAS, RTK, PPK.

3.7 GNSS Navigation in Drones: Flight Planning and Parameters.

3.8 Integration of GNSS with Onboard Sensors: IMU, Barometers.

3.9 Practical Applications of GNSS in Drones: Agriculture, Inspection, Mapping.

3.30 GNSS Data Analysis: Post-processing and Data Correction.

4.4 GNSS Principles: Global Positioning Systems and Operation

4.2 GNSS Components in Drones: Receivers, Antennas, and Configuration

4.3 Key Navigation Concepts: Heading, Speed, and Altitude

4.4 Precision and Accuracy: Factors Affecting GNSS Positioning

4.5 Integrating GNSS with Flight Systems: Autopilots and Flight Control

4.6 GNSS Flight Planning: Routes, Waypoints, and Operating Areas

4.7 Error Detection and Mitigation: Interference and Weak Signals

4.8 Practical Applications: Mapping, Precision Agriculture, and Surveillance

4.9 Regulatory Considerations: Regulations and Permits for GNSS Flight

4.40 Future Trends: Advances in GNSS Technology for Drones

5.5 Air Legislation Applicable to Drones

5.5 Operator and Pilot Roles and Responsibilities

5.3 Safety Regulations and Risk Prevention

5.4 Rotorcraft Structure and Components

5.5 Basic Aerodynamics and Flight Principles

5.6 Factors Influencing Flight Performance

5.7 Types of Drones and Their Applications

5.8 Basic Equipment Maintenance and Care

5.9 First Aid and Flight Safety

5.50 Case Studies and Practical Examples

5.5 Rotor Theory: Lift and Drag

5.5 Rotor Design and Selection

5.3 Airfoils and Their Influence

5.4 Airflow Analysis and Edge Effects

5.5 Calculating Required Power

5.6 Performance Evaluation Under Different Conditions

5.7 Rotor Design Optimization

5.8 Vibration Analysis and Mitigation

5.9 Rotor Testing and Trials

5.50 Case Studies and Practical Examples

3.5 Introduction to GNSS Systems

3.5 GNSS Signals and Constellations

3.3 How GNSS Receivers Work

3.4 Navigation and Positioning Concepts

3.5 Factors Affecting GNSS Accuracy

3.6 GNSS Applications in Drones

3.7 Receiver Configuration and Calibration

3.8 GNSS Flight Practices

3.9 GNSS Data Analysis and Troubleshooting

3.50 GNSS Integration with Other Systems

4.5 Principles of GNSS Navigation

4.5 Mission Planning and Waypoints

4.3 Flight Control and Stability

4.4 Autonomous Flight Techniques

4.5 Geofences and Restricted Areas

4.6 Handling Emergency Situations

4.7 Using Flight Planning Software

4.8 Flight Log Analysis

4.9 Flight Simulation Practices
4.50 Common Problem Solving

5.5 Applications in Precision Agriculture

5.5 Applications in Infrastructure Inspection

5.3 Applications in Surveying and Mapping

5.4 Applications in Search and Rescue

5.5 Applications in Aerial Videography and Photography

5.6 Applications in Environmental Management

5.7 Data Collection and Processing

5.8 Data Analysis and Report Generation

5.9 Case Studies and Real-World Examples

5.50 Future Trends and Opportunities

6.5 Technical Components of GNSS Systems

6.5 Antennas and Their Performance

6.3 Types of GNSS Receivers and Their Characteristics

6.4 Integration with Flight Control Systems

6.5 IMU Sensors and Their Integration

6.6 Filters and Data Fusion Algorithms

6.7 Interference and Error Mitigation

6.8 Communication and Data Protocols

6.9 System Maintenance and Calibration

6.50 System Design and Configuration GNSS

7.5 Advanced Navigation Techniques

7.5 RTK and PPK: Centimeter-Level Accuracy

7.3 Reference Systems and Transformations

7.4 Integration of Multiple GNSS Systems

7.5 Error Correction Techniques

7.6 Navigation in Challenging Environments

7.7 Advanced Data Analysis

7.8 Drone Programming and Scripting

7.9 Implementing Custom Functions

7.50 Developing Tailor-Made Solutions

8.5 Flight Planning Strategies

8.5 Route Optimization and Efficiency

8.3 Drone Fleet Management

8.4 Regulatory and Legal Compliance

8.5 Safety and Risk Management

8.6 Data Analysis and Decision Making

8.7 Integration with Geographic Information Systems

8.8 Economic Aspects and Profitability

8.9 Case Studies and Market Analysis

8.50 Future Perspectives and Trends

6.6 GNSS Fundamentals: Signals and Positioning Systems

6.2 GNSS Receiver Operating Principles in Drones

6.3 Factors Affecting GNSS Positioning Accuracy

6.4 Integrating GNSS with Other Sensors in Drones (IMU, etc.)

6.5 Key Applications of GNSS in Drone Operations

6.6 GNSS System Configuration and Calibration in Drones

6.7 GNSS Data Analysis: Processing and Correction

6.8 Regulatory and Legal Aspects of GNSS Use in Drones

6.9 GNSS Safety Considerations and Troubleshooting

6.60 Case Studies: Specific Applications in Various Sectors

  • Hands-on methodology: test-before-you-trust, design reviews, failure analysis, compliance evidence.
  • Software (depending on licenses/partners): MATLAB/Simulink, Python (NumPy/SciPy), OpenVSP, SU2/OpenFOAM, Nastran/Abaqus, AMESim/Modelica, acoustics tools, planning toolchains DO-178C.
  • SEIUM Laboratories: scale rotor bench, vibrations/acoustics, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL for AFCS, data acquisition with strain gauging.
  • Standards and compliance: EN 9100, 17025, ISO 27001, GDPR.

Capstone-type projects

Admissions, fees, and scholarships

  • Profile: Background in Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or related fields; practical experience in NLP and valued information retrieval systems.
  • Documentation: Updated CV, academic transcript, SOP/statement of purpose, project examples or code (optional).
  • Process: Application → Technical evaluation of profile and experience → Technical interview → Review of case studies → Final decision → Enrollment.
  • Fees:
    • Single payment: 10% discount.
    • Payment in 3 installments: No fees; 30% upon registration + 2 equal monthly payments of the remaining 35%.

      Monthly payment: available with a 7% commission on the total; annual review.

      Scholarships: based on academic merit, financial need, and promoting inclusion; agreements with companies in the sector for partial or full scholarships.

      See “Calendar & Calls for Applications,” “Scholarships & Grants,” and “Fees & Financing” in the SEIUM mega-menu.

Do you have any questions?

Our team is ready to help you. Contact us, and we will respond as soon as possible.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

F. A. Q

Frequently asked questions

Yes, we have international certification

Yes: experimental models, real data, applied simulations, professional environments, real case studies.

It is not mandatory. We offer leveling tracks and tutoring.

Completely. It covers e-propulsion, integration, and emerging regulations (SC-VTOL).

Recommended. There are also internal challenges and consortiums.

Yes. Online/hybrid modality with planned labs and visa support (see “Visa & Residence”).

Scroll to Top
SEIUM – Institute of Advanced Engineering
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.