Using Real-Time Kinematics for Agricultural Drone Precision

In modern agriculture, precision isn’t just valuable—it’s transformative. At Fair Lifts Unmanned Operations, we harness Real-Time Kinematics (RTK) technology to push drone operations beyond standard GPS limitations, delivering centimeter-accurate positioning that revolutionizes spraying, mapping, and field analysis.

Our approach breaks down into three key elements: how RTK’s advanced correction systems work, why we chose the Emlid Reach RS2+ as our hardware backbone, and the innovative ways we apply this technology to help farmers maximize yields while minimizing waste. The future of farming flies with unprecedented accuracy.

1. How Real-Time Kinematics Works

Real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning enhances standard GNSS (global navigation satellite system) technology, delivering centimeter-level accuracy. Unlike traditional GNSS—which can be off by meters due to ionospheric delays, multipath errors, and clock inaccuracies—RTK corrects these errors in real time using a fixed base station and a mobile rover (like a drone).

RTK measures the carrier wave’s phase, not just the signal’s time delay. By tracking whole wavelengths between satellite and receiver (carrier-phase enhancement), it achieves sub-inch precision. The base station, placed at a surveyed location, broadcasts corrections to the rover via radio, cellular, or internet. This allows the drone to adjust its position in real time, achieving 1–2 cm accuracy.

Enhanced Accuracy Through CORS Networks

For maximum reliability, many RTK systems connect to Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) networks. These networks use multiple permanent base stations that constantly validate each other’s positioning data, broadcasting corrections via internet connections. By cross-referencing multiple stations, CORS networks prevent false initializations that could occur with single base stations and maintain consistent accuracy across large geographic areas. This distributed approach is particularly valuable for agricultural operations covering vast or remote fields where setting up a dedicated base station might be impractical.

For agriculture, RTK delivers horizontal precision of 0.3 inches + 1 ppm and vertical precision of 0.6 inches + 1 ppm—more than enough for high-precision tasks like variable-rate spraying or terrain mapping.

2. Our Hardware: Emlid Reach RS2+

Our operations center on the Emlid Reach RS2+, a multi-band RTK GNSS receiver engineered for demanding field conditions. Beyond its core multi-constellation tracking (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou), the RS2+ delivers dual-mode flexibility – providing both instantaneous RTK corrections and post-processed PPK (Post-Processed Kinematic) accuracy when cellular coverage is limited.

Why the Reach RS2+ excels:

• Fast Initialization: Locks a fixed solution in under 5 seconds—crucial for time-sensitive operations.
• Centimeter Accuracy: Maintains precision even at drone speeds >50 mph and in rugged terrain.
• Long Baseline Range: Accurate up to 37 miles in PPK and 12 miles in RTK mode.
• Flexible Connectivity: Corrections via LoRa, Bluetooth, or NTRIP.
• Durability: IP67-rated, all-weather operation with 22-hour battery life.

We chose the RS2+ for its seamless integration with our mission planning systems, enabling scalable, precise aerial surveying, spraying, and mapping across diverse agricultural applications.

3. Outside-the-Box Precision: How We Deliver Results

Precision agriculture requires innovation, and Fair Lifts combines advanced GNSS with creative problem-solving. Our drones leverage the Emlid Reach RS2+ for ultra-precise spraying, seeding, and terrain analysis in orchards, row crops, and specialty farms.

What makes us different:

• Custom Coverage Mapping: RTK-powered orthomosaics and terrain models define spray boundaries and flight paths.
• Height-Adaptive Spraying: RTK altimetry adjusts nozzle height in real time for even coverage across varying canopies.
• Resource Efficiency: Precision paths eliminate overlap and missed zones, cutting chemical use and boosting yields.
• Adaptability: In GPS-limited or high-wind areas, we hybridize ground/air workflows while maintaining centimeter accuracy.

By pairing RTK with hardware like the RS2+, we’re not just meeting standards—we’re raising them. Our methods ensure data-driven farming that improves crop health, reduces waste, and supports sustainability.

Elevating Farming Through Centimeter-Perfect Accuracy

RTK is the backbone of precision drone operations. At Fair Lifts, we marry cutting-edge science with field-tested hardware like the Emlid Reach RS2+ to deliver unmatched accuracy. Whether mapping, spraying, or surveying, our RTK workflows give farmers the reliability modern agriculture demands—where every pass and every droplet counts.