Catherine Thornton

Title: Catherine Thornton: Innovator in GPS Technology

Introduction

Catherine Thornton is a prominent inventor based in Arcadia, CA (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of global positioning systems (GPS) with her innovative patents. With a total of 2 patents, her work focuses on enhancing the accuracy and functionality of GPS satellites.

Latest Patents

Thornton's latest patents include "Techniques for monitoring and controlling yaw attitude of a GPS satellite" and "Analyzing system for global positioning system and general satellite." The first patent addresses the control of yawing in GPS satellites, particularly when they are in the shadow of the Earth. This invention generates a constant yaw bias in the attitude control system to maintain optimal satellite orientation. The second patent presents an improved analyzing system based on the GIPSY-OASIS II software package, which enhances satellite tracking, orbit determination, and trajectory studies. This system allows for fully automatic operation, delivering validated daily solutions for orbits and station locations with remarkable accuracy.

Career Highlights

Catherine Thornton is affiliated with the California Institute of Technology, where she continues to push the boundaries of GPS technology. Her work has led to significant advancements in satellite positioning and data analysis, contributing to the overall efficiency of GPS systems.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Thornton has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Stephen M. Lichten and Sien-Chong Wu. These partnerships have fostered innovation and have been instrumental in the development of her patented technologies.

Conclusion

Catherine Thornton's contributions to GPS technology exemplify her dedication to innovation and excellence. Her patents not only enhance satellite functionality but also pave the way for future advancements in the field.