In her latest article for the Forbes Tech Council, NextNav CEO Mariam Sorond discusses how, as global GPS disruptions escalate, the U.S. must move urgently to build layered PNT resiliency, using both space-based and ground-based systems.
“Resilience requires layers of backups and alternatives. Currently, most businesses have access to multiple global navigation satellite system (GNSS) services beyond GPS, which provide a space-based backup. Just recently, Iridium announced a chip that could enable its network of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to offer location data up to 1,000 times stronger than GPS signals.
On the ground, backup options remain limited, which is why developing standards-based 5G approaches to 3D PNT is important as the technology matures. Organizations should also weigh cost: Today’s GPS is free to users, so any backup system should avoid creating unnecessary financial burdens. Ultimately, businesses need options that solve both the technical and economic challenges.”
Read the full article on Forbes: Why The U.S. Needs A Backup Plan For GPS