While the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is looking for alternatives to traditional GPS, Elon Musk’s SpaceX says: its Starlink satellite network is ready to become the next-generation positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) tool. That could make the technology independent of the U.S. Department of Defense, which for decades has been the only GPS operator.
GPS is the basis of the modern world, from maps in smartphones to airline management. However, the system is vulnerable to jamming, hacking, or technical failures. Therefore, the FCC initiated a search for alternatives to create a “backup.” SpaceX’s answer: low orbit (LEO) Starlink satellites can provide PNT services in parallel with internet distribution.
In a letter to the FCC, the company emphasized: its satellites are already capable of operating autonomously from GPS. Moreover, Starlink is developing its own PNT system for the mobile service, which will launch in partnership with T-Mobile in July.
The technology has two advantages:
- GPS independent – even if its signal is lost, Starlink will continue to transmit data.
- Use any frequency — this reduces the risk of jamming and increases safety.
Competitors and challenges
SpaceX isn’t the only company claiming to be the “next GPS.” Apple and Globalstar have also filed proposals with the FCC to use their satellites. For example, Globalstar notes that their 2.4 GHz signals are stronger than GPS, reducing the likelihood of failures.
However, SpaceX has criticized another player, EchoStar (owner of Hughesnet), accusing it of inefficient use of 2 GHz radio frequencies. The FCC has already begun to review this issue.
For now, the technical details of Starlink’s PNT remain a mystery. But the company is confident: next-generation satellite networks are the best way to create a “sustainable PNT ecosystem.” This can make navigation more accessible, especially in remote regions where GPS coverage is limited.
The FCC must decide whether to support private company initiatives or develop its own system. If Starlink gets the green light, it could change not only navigation, but also the role of satellite internet in global infrastructure.
Earlier we reported on how the US military was interested in directly connecting smartphones to satellites.
According to PCMag
