Spectra Precision ProMark 800 Reference Manual User Manual
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Precise Surveying - Field Applications & Concepts
Phase Center Location (1)
This is a virtual point that represents the spatio-temporal 
origin of the antenna. It is usually inside the antenna and 
often on, or close to, the vertical axis of the antenna.
The phase center location is accurately determined by the 
antenna manufacturer or the United States National Geodetic 
Survey after a long series of tests. The location of the phase 
center is usually indicated on the antenna itself (see also 4. 
below). 
A dual-frequency antenna usually has two different phase 
centers instead of one. In this case, the antenna 
manufacturer should mention the exact locations of the two 
phase centers.
Phase Center Offset (2)
Vertical distance that separates the phase center from the 
bottom of the antenna (see also ARP below).
SHMP (3)
(SHMP=Slant Height Measurement Point) Point located on 
the edge of the antenna radome into which a tape measure 
can be inserted to perform a slant measurement. 
SHMP Offset (4)
Vertical distance that separates the SHMP from the base of 
the antenna. This parameter is needed by the system to 
determine the real height of the antenna over the landmark 
after a slant measurement has been entered into the system. 
Antenna Radius (5)
Horizontal distance from the geometrical center to the edge 
of the antenna. This parameter is needed by the system to 
determine the real height of the antenna over the landmark 
after a slant measurement has been entered into the system.
ARP (6)
Antenna Reference Point located at the bottom of the 
antenna receiving the 5/8” adaptor of the antenna pole.
Why is GNSS
Antenna Height so
Important
The basic measurement giving centimeter accuracy is the 
vector from the phase center of the base antenna to the phase 
center of the rover antenna. Usually, the real position of 
interest is not the phase center of the antenna, but the survey 
mark (or other landmark) over which the antenna is set up.
