PyGLogDB: software to generate STATION-INFO files for GNSS data analysis

Abstract

Massive analysis of GNSS data (Global Navigation Satellite System) requires the development of specific tools to automate the different steps of processing: from data download to ground displacements estimates. In this technical report we describe the tools and algorithms we have developed to handle the metadata associated with GNSS observations from continuous networks operating in the EuroMediterranean and African area, which are routinely processed by the three main INGV data analysis centers. Obtaining accurate metadata, which records information on how a GNSS station is equipped (receiver, antenna, monument, etc..), is mandatory in order to obtain accurate GNSS stations daily position and their evolution through time. Here we will describe the processing chain, the software developed using opensource programming language, describing the major issues found in treating incomplete, inconsistent or wrong information, and the methods adopted to minimize or resolve these problems. The software developed is going to be implemented in the centralized GNSS data and metadata archive that we are realizing at INGV, and that will serve both institutional activities and research projects. The goal of this tool is to minimize errors and reduce/avoid the human intervention in handling a large set of information, facilitating the automatic analysis of data from thousands of GNSS stations on a daily basis. The software acronym is pyGLogDB, which stands for: “python GNSS Logfile elaboration with the support of DataBase”.