The first precision commercial alternative to GPS is set to launch this month, with six satellites designed by Xona Space Systems going into orbit. This service aims to compete with the free signals provided by governments worldwide, challenging the existing monopolies in navigation and timing.
Background on Xona Space Systems
Founded in 2019 by a team of five engineers from Stanford University, Xona Space Systems is spearheaded by CEO Brian Manning. One of the founders, Tyler Reid, earned a PhD focusing on using satellites in low-earth orbit to enhance navigation. The team recognized that while GPS and other satellite networks from Europe, China, and Russia offer significant value, they are also vulnerable to jamming and lack the precision required for advanced applications like farming robots and self-driving cars.
“"My knee jerk was like, this is dumb. Why would anybody replace GPS? It’s free, right?" - Brian Manning
Technical Innovations
Xona's approach involves developing a unique satellite architecture that enables precise timing and location data without the need for expensive atomic clocks. By leveraging the satellites' proximity to Earth and maintaining close communication with ground-based sources, Xona aims to enhance GPS performance.
Additionally, the company has ensured that its signals can be received by existing GPS receivers with minimal software modifications, facilitating market entry and regulatory compliance.
