Global Navigation Satellite Systems Engineering, Policy, and Design
By Logan Scott
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DoT’s) “Complementary PNT and GPS Backup Technologies Demonstration Report” released this January has some excellent data on the relative performances of various systems in timing and positioning.
By Inside GNSS
u-blox announced the ALEX-R5, a miniature cellular module that integrates low-power wide-area (LPWA) connectivity and GNSS technology into an ultra-small system-in-package (SiP) form factor.
By Inside GNSS
STMicroelectronics announced that its new BPF8089-01SC6 plug-and-play RF front-end for GNSS receivers simplifies design and saves real estate by integrating the impedance-matching and electrostatic-discharge (ESD) protection circuitry typically implemented using discrete components.
By Inside GNSS
The Department of Transportation (DOT) submitted its “National Timing Resilience and Security Act: Roadmap to Implementation” report to Congress in mid-January. Following a competitive application process, demonstrations and review of 11 candidate technologies to back up GPS capabilities, the DOT concluded that “none of the systems can universally backup the positioning and navigations capabilities provided byGPS and its augmentations.” However, “all vendors demonstrated some PNT performance of value, but only one vendor, NextNav, demonstrated in all applicable use case scenarios.”
By Inside GNSS
TeleOrbit GmbH of Nuremberg, Germany, announced that it has implemented testing capability for Galileo’s Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (OSNMA) aboard the company’s GNSS Receiver with Open Software Interface (GOOSE).
By Inside GNSS
The White House issued a January 15 policy directive addressing U.S. dependence on GPS and the need to prepare for GPS disruptions. It may also signal an intent to authenticate GPS signals in the future.
By Inside GNSS
The European GNSS Agency (GSA) released a new Galileo Open Service Signal in Space Interface Control Document (OS SIS ICD), the second issue of this document geared towards GNSS receiver manufacturers. Although the modified signals are not yet broadcast by Galileo satellites, the ICD will allow GNSS receiver manufacturers to prepare for the improved signals, set for debut in 2023.
By Inside GNSS
In a whitepaper titled “5G Synchronization Requirements and Solutions,” Ericsson CTO Erik Ekudden’ gives his views on the importance of synchronization in 5G and the critical role of GNSS as a backbone and basis of that synchronization.
By Inside GNSS
U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe, R-Oklahoma, wrote an opinion editorial piece at the close of 2020 warning any investors or potential investors in Ligado Networks that they face “massive risks.”
By Inside GNSS
ADVA launched a set network synchronization devices with enhanced capabilities for next-generation applications such as 5G. The latest Oscilloquartz products provide timing accuracy and resilience to edge networks. The OSA 5412 and 5422 offer precise phase, frequency and time-of-day synchronization and can be used for time-as-a-service applications.
By Inside GNSS
Tallysman Wireless introduced two lightweight, compact active Iridium helical antennas: the housed HC610 and the embedded HC610E. They receive the Iridium Satellite Time and Location (STL) signals, used by STL terminals to provide worldwide position, navigation, and timing independent of GPS/GNSS
By Inside GNSS
A software development kit for vertical positioning within multistory buildings enhances first responder safety, makes decision-making more efficient, and improves situational awareness.
By Inside GNSS
As 2020 comes to a close, the Ligado Networks LLC’s (Ligado) mobile satellite services (MSS) project remains at a standstill. While actions in the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) proceedings in the case have stagnated, Congressional action, funds and filings have flowed.
By Dawn M.K. Zoldi (Colonel, USAF, Ret.)
