The Z-Xtreme processes signals from the GPS satellite constellation, deriving real-time position, velocity, and time measurements. Twelve dedicated separate and parallel channels extract Coarse/Acquisition (C/A) code-phase, and carrierphase measurement on the L1 (1575 MHz) band, and Precise (P) code phase and carrier phase measurement on the L1 and L2 (1227 MHz) bands. The Z-Xtreme receives satellite signals via an L-band antenna and low-noise amplifier (LNA). The receiver operates stand-alone and as a base (reference) station or remote (rover) station providing real-time differential GPS operation for code, and real-time kinematic (RTK) operation for carrier phase. The unit implements the RTCM SC 104 V2.2 standard for differential and RTK operation. These features allow the Z-Xtreme to achieve centimeter accuracy while being compatible for differential and RTK operation with any other receiver that implements the RTCM standard. Antenna P/N: 700700(C)

ATM3 is the third-generation instrument in NASA’s Airborne Topographic Mapper series. It was developed as an upgrade to ATM2, incorporating improved laser technology, higher pulse rates, and better GPS/inertial navigation integration for enhanced accuracy. Compared to ATM2, ATM3 offers finer spatial resolution (typically achieves vertical accuracy of 10 cm or better, depending on flight conditions) and faster data acquisition.

Lidar is an active remote sensing technology that uses laser pulses to measure distances to objects or surfaces. By calculating the time it takes for each laser pulse to travel to a target and return, lidar systems generate highly accurate 3D point clouds representing terrain, vegetation, and built structures. Vertical accuracy often within 10–15 cm.