Evaluating GNSS infrastructure readiness for IGS contribution: the case of King Sejong Station, Antarctica

This study evaluates the readiness of the GNSS infrastructure at King Sejong Station (KSEJ), Antarctica, for integration into the International GNSS Service (IGS) network. Dual-epoch GNSS observations from 2009 and 2023 were reprocessed using the GAMIT/GLOBK 10.7 software suite in the ITRF2014 reference frame to assess long-term positional stability. The results show average annual horizontal velocities of 22 mm/yr toward the north-northeast, consistent with regional crustal motion driven by post-glacial rebound and tectonic processes. Signal quality analysis indicates a data availability of 99.37% and a cycle slip rate of 0.10%, both within IGS thresholds, although elevated multipath values were detected due to nearby infrastructure and limited azimuthal visibility, underscoring the need for site-specific mitigation. To ensure vertical reference consistency, geodetic leveling was conducted in 2023 to connect the tide gauge benchmark with nearby GNSS control points. A new temporary benchmark was installed following the loss of the original 2009 marker, enabling reliable vertical datum transfer and integration of tide gauge data with GNSS-derived heights. Overall, KSEJ meets most IGS requirements but requires infrastructural upgrades to address multipath interference, metadata automation, and data transmission reliability. These findings highlight the station's potential as a high-latitude geodetic reference site, contributing to global reference frame densification, sea level monitoring, and geodynamic studies in Antarctica.