Microsecond Time Synchronisation between GMRT, Pune and NPL, New Delhi using INSAT Standard Time and Frequency Broadcast in a Differential Mode

Abstract

We demonstrate the capability of the Standard Time and Frequency Signal (STFS) broadcast via INSAT to provide time synchronisation with the Indian Standard Time to a 1–2 μsec accuracy in a differential mode. The data used in this study comprise of (a) those recorded at the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) site at Khodad, Pune and (b) those simultaneously recorded at NPL. GPS receivers have been used at Khodad and at NPL to provide the time reference for measurements of the residual errors of the received STFS time. The residual time error in the received STFS is primarily due to error in the predicted satellite position and is similar at both stations. The common mode error largely cancels in the differential STFS leading to the present high time transfer accuracy.