What is Network RTK?

Network RTK is an advanced GNSS correction technique that delivers centimeter-level positioning accuracy over wide geographic areas by leveraging a network of continuously operating reference stations (CORS). Traditional single-base RTK, relies on a single local base station and suffers from reduced accuracy as distance increases. Network RTK, on the other hand, uses multiple reference stations distributed across a region. These stations collectively model spatially correlated errors, such as atmospheric delays, and generate corrections tailored to the user’s location.

RTK GNSS corrections are typically delivered via internet protocols like NTRIP in standardized formats (e.g., RTCM 3.x), making Network RTK compatible with most modern RTK receivers. This approach enables consistent, high-precision positioning for applications such as surveying, autonomous vehicles, robotics, GIS mapping, and construction, without the need for users to deploy their own base stations. Network RTK solutions like Swift Navigation’s Skylark Nx RTK support multiple global reference frames (e.g., ITRF2020, NAD83) and offer rapid convergence to fixed-integer solutions, ensuring both accuracy and scalability for large-scale operations.