Global Navigation Satellite Systems Engineering, Policy, and Design
Over at least half a dozen years the GPS III Follow On program has taken a number of dramatic turns only to wind up, in true soap opera fashion, with the same leading characters headed to the altar.
At the end of the latest episode, the field of suitors for the multi-billion-dollar GPS IIIF contract narrowed suddenly in April when two of the three corporate hopefuls abruptly left the field.
By Dee Ann Divis
The issue at hand is whether the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) should allow a change in the use of frequencies close to those used by GPS. Virginia-based Ligado Networks wants to repurpose its satellite frequencies to also support ground-based telecom services. Testing done several years ago and expanded upon more recently has shown such a system could seriously interfere with GPS receivers.
Some three months after a meeting of the key federal agencies using and running the GPS program, they have yet to release a letter stating their recommendation on whether to allow the development of a potentially interfering telecommunication service.
By Dee Ann Divis
NavtechGPS Spring GPS/GNSS Training Seminars will take place at the Hyatt House Falls Church/Merrifield in Virginia/Washington D.C. area. These courses are taught by some of the top technical professionals in the industry. All courses can be taught on-site at students’ locations — select a specific class or a combination of classes to
By Inside GNSS
The GPS Innovation Alliance has announced the appointment of J. “David” Grossman as executive director. Grossman will lead the Alliance as it further builds its organizational presence in Washington on behalf of its members and the GNSS industry as a whole.
“David’s appointment ushers in an exciting new chapter for our organization” said Jim Kirkland, president of the GPS Innovation Alliance and senior vice president and general counsel of Trimble Inc.
By Inside GNSS
Nearly a year later than expected, federal officials have published the final report of a study on the power levels GPS receivers can tolerate from activities in neighboring bands — a key factor in the kind of new applications that could be approved for those nearby frequencies.
By Dee Ann Divis
A new watchdog report says the Air Force has yet to develop full cost estimates for the new ground system and user equipment essential for utilizing the expanded capabilities of the upcoming GPS III generation of satellites.
The Government Accountably Office (GAO) said in its annual assessment of weapons systems for Congress that the Air Force is still developing a final budget number and schedule for the Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX). OCX is necessary for implementing the new military M-code among other enhancements.
By Dee Ann Divis
Mike Rogers, a key lawmaker in military space policy, appears willing to stick with the current program to build a more capable and cyber-secure GPS ground system despite his profound frustration with schedule delays and cost overruns and a recently revealed report from MITRE Corp. suggesting it be dropped.
By Dee Ann Divis
This article focuses on the research project Galileo Online: GO! – which with support from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (grant number 50NA1510) designs and develops a reliable and high-precision receiver for multi-constellation and dual-frequency GNSS whose suitability and capabilities are tested in railway applications. Project results showcase the advantages of GPS and Galileo if used simultaneously in railway applications.
By Inside GNSS
An independent technical review ordered by the federal government’s top GPS policy body found that there is sufficient data to assess the risk of using frequencies near the GPS band for a ground-based communications network. Existing test results can also be used to set power limits for other similarly located projects, said a panel of technical specialists. Two tests sponsored by Ligado Networks, however, did not meet minimum criteria for inclusion, the panel said.
By Inside GNSS
A $2 billion lawsuit with implications for the ongoing spectrum fight between the GPS community and would-be terrestrial telecom provider Ligado Networks has been stayed — set aside through mutual agreement for nine months — according to court documents.
By Inside GNSS
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has declined to take action on concerns expressed by the GPS community, approving an Iridium request to modify its earth station licenses to take advantage of the advanced capabilities of its second-generation constellation.
By Dee Ann Divis
Mike Rogers, a key lawmaker in military space policy, appears willing to stick with the current program to build a more capable and cyber-secure GPS ground system despite his profound frustration with schedule delays and cost overruns and a recently revealed report from MITRE Corp. suggesting it be dropped.
By Inside GNSS
The Army is leaning toward using a funding channel designed for fast deals with high-tech entrepreneurs to rev up its work on assured positioning, navigation and timing (A-PNT).
By Dee Ann Divis
