Go-onto-location-in-space

From Citizendium, the Citizens' Compendium

Go-onto-location-in-space (GOLIS) defines a set of techniques for directing a precision-guided munition (PGM) to a specific point in space, where its warhead will actuate. In general, that actuation will produce an explosion that affects a target at those coordinates, although the effect might be a burst of electromagnetic radiation for jamming or to produce electromagnetic pulse, or even to disperse propaganda leaflets. It may be that actuation enables a terminal guidance mechanism, perhaps as simple as a radar altimeter or other proximity sensor, but some weapons are capable of final active maneuvering.

GOLIS is the basic paradigm used for ballistic missiles armed with nuclear warheads. In a tactical context, however, it becomes more of a challenge. A weapon such as the Joint Direct Action Munition (JDAM) will fly to a location in space programmed into it, which may have been done by targeting analysts working with reconnaissance photographs calibrated against a position reference (i.e., geospatial intelligence). In tactical situations, special reconnaissance personnel may determine the exact location of a target using a laser rangefinder from their position, which they know accurately from a Global Navigation Satellite System (e.g., GPS receiver). Devices, such as the Enhanced Position Location Reporting System, are available that will automatically combine the range and current position information and send it to an howitzer that fires guided shells.

As long as the location is available, GOLIS does not depend on day or night, or target visibility. Weather, especially wind, may affect the PGM, but if it can steer to coordinates that it determines from GPS or other local reference, it can correct for those disturbances.