Exploring Alternatives for GPS, Space Force Contemplates Multiple Satellite Orbits
Navigating the Future: The Space Force is revamping its GPS system to deal with growing threats and enhance performance. Let's dive into the latest advancements.
Following a surge in GPS signal jamming and the potential risk of adversaries taking out satellites, Space Force leaders are after backup alternatives. In April, an alt-PNT project caught the Department of the Air Force's interest, designated as a 'quick start' program. By September, four companies were selected by Space Systems Command to develop resilient GPS solutions, promising eight small satellites by 2028.
However, some Congress members have argued that the project is overlooking the importance of jam-resistant encrypted M-code signals for military operations. Yet, Space Systems Command Commander Lt. Gen. Philip A. Garrant refuted this criticism, emphasizing the focus on bolstering civil code for extra resilience and operating in a different orbital regime. Garrant explains that the new satellites won't be in the same planes as GPS, unlocking orbital diversity.
This multi-orbit strategy introduces advantages: Low-Earth orbit satellites offer a stronger signal due to their proximity to Earth, while geosynchronous satellites provide steady presence overhead. The Space Development Agency (SDA) is embedding PNT signals into its first data transport satellites, transmitting both communication and basic clock-like information about position and timing. In the future, SDA plans to separate PNT signals from low-Earth orbit.
Looking ahead, SDA Director Derek S. Tournear revealed the upcoming provision of a lightweight PNT service from low-Earth orbit. Collaborating with the Army, this signal will be used for munitions and other purposes, requiring minimal processing to receive.
In parallel, the Air Force Research Laboratory is gearing up to launch its NTS-3 demonstrator satellite, testing new technologies like reprogrammable signals and a phased array antenna in geosynchronous orbit.
Industry partners are exploring commercial GPS alternatives, aiming to cater to the needs of autonomous vehicles and airline companies experiencing GPS challenges in contested regions. Commercial PNT signals could become an essential part of satellite communication networks, reducing dependence on GPS. In fact, SpaceX is already pondering such an approach for its Starlink constellation.
As the Space Force forges ahead with multiple GPS alternatives, Gen. Garrant clarified that the traditional GPS constellation remains robust and vital. Nonetheless, there are GPS III satellites awaiting launch, with the Space Systems Command looking into faster options for their deployment, potentially on SpaceX rockets.
Together, these advancements suggest a new approach for GPS in the near future, featuring a multiorbit network and a plethora of alternatives. While the traditional GPS system remains crucial, additional layers of resilience and security are essential against potential threats. ongoing developments in both the military and commercial sectors.
- The Space Force is considering backup alternatives to the GPS system due to increasing threats and potential satellite attacks.
- In April, a project titled 'alt-PNT' caught the Department of the Air Force's attention, aiming to develop resilient GPS solutions.
- Industry partners are investigating commercial GPS alternatives to cater to the needs of autonomous vehicles and airline companies in contested regions.
- Gen. Garrant emphasized that the traditional GPS constellation remains robust and vital, while also acknowledging that there are GPS III satellites awaiting launch.
- The Air Force Research Laboratory is planning to launch its NTS-3 demonstrator satellite to test new technologies like reprogrammable signals and a phased array antenna in geosynchronous orbit.
