Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the launch of the Pulsar satellite by Xona Space Systems, which aims to provide a more reliable and precise alternative to the existing GPS system, addressing its vulnerabilities to interference and deception [1][2][10]. Group 1: Satellite Technology and Development - The Pulsar satellite is the first of a planned constellation of 258 satellites designed to operate in low Earth orbit, approximately 12,000 miles above the Earth, offering stronger and more precise signals than GPS [1][2]. - Xona's CTO, Tyler Reid, claims that the signals from their satellites will be about 100 times stronger than GPS signals, allowing for better penetration through buildings and reduced interference coverage [1][2]. - The satellite system aims to achieve positioning accuracy of 3 inches (10 centimeters) or better, significantly improving navigation reliability in challenging environments [3][5][6]. Group 2: GPS Vulnerabilities and Market Need - The GPS system, operational since 1993, is critical for various applications but is susceptible to interference from various sources, including space weather and low-cost jammers [2][8]. - The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has highlighted the vulnerabilities of GPS, as interference has rendered precision-guided munitions ineffective, prompting a search for reliable alternatives [8][10]. - The proliferation of inexpensive jamming devices has raised concerns about GPS reliability, affecting commercial flights and other critical operations [8][10]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape and Future Plans - Xona is not the only company exploring alternatives to GPS; other firms like Anello Photonics and Advanced Navigation are developing ground-based solutions using inertial navigation systems [10][11]. - Xona plans to launch additional satellites in the coming years, with a goal to deploy most of its constellation by 2030, enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure reliant on GPS [11][12]. - The company aims to design signals compatible with existing GPS technology, facilitating integration for GPS receiver manufacturers [11].

Core Viewpoint - The Broadcast Positioning System (BPS) is introduced as an alternative to GPS, utilizing ATSC 3.0 digital television signals for timing and positioning, primarily as a backup solution for national security [1][6]. Technology Overview - BPS operates by embedding timing data in a preamble and location data in a Physical Layer Pipe (PLP), allowing for accurate time and position estimation with a single TV tower providing time and four towers providing both time and position [3][9]. - The expected time accuracy is 100 nanoseconds (95% of the time), with an average positioning accuracy of approximately 100 meters [3][9]. Development Phases - The development of BPS is structured in six phases, with public deployment of ATSC 3.0-based timing expected between 2025 and 2027, followed by positioning tests and full deployment by 2029 [6][16]. Current Testing and Infrastructure - NAB Technology is currently testing BPS using a limited number of ATSC 3.0 base stations, employing advanced equipment to measure and compare GPS and BPS signals [4][5]. - The existing infrastructure for ATSC 3.0 is already in place, allowing for low incremental costs for BPS deployment [15]. Advantages of BPS - BPS offers several advantages, including independence from GPS, the ability to operate during emergencies, frequency diversity, and in-building coverage [15][14]. - It is designed to function when GPS signals are spoofed or unavailable, making it a reliable alternative [15]. Use Cases - Potential applications of BPS include delivering GPS-independent time and position, detecting GPS spoofing, and providing hybrid location services [16][15]. Market Coverage - The BPS system is expected to cover a significant portion of the continental United States, with various station counts indicating increasing cumulative coverage [22]. Government Support - There is a push for public-private partnerships to fund research and development for BPS, indicating government support for this free-to-use service [18].