GPS World

Category: Applications

  • SparkFun Electronics launches GNSS RTK module for positioning accuracy

    SparkFun Electronics launches GNSS RTK module for positioning accuracy

    SparkFun Electronics has introduced the SparkFun Quadband GNSS RTK Breakout (Qwiic), which is designed to improve positioning accuracy using the Quectel GNSS module. This module has a compact design and compatibility with the Qwiic connector, making it easy to integrate into various projects. Additionally, it shares the same dimensions, pin layout and connectors as the SparkFun GPS-RTK-SMA Breakout – ZED-F9P, offering a seamless upgrade path for users.

    The LG290P module is a quad-band, multi-constellation, high-precision real-time kinematics (RTK) GNSS receiver capable of receiving signals from multiple frequency bands: L1, L2, L5 and L6/E6. It supports all GNSS constellations and offers support for Satellite Based Augmentation Systems (SBAS) — such as Wide Area Augmentation System (WASS) and European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) — as well as precise point positioning (PPP) services, including BDS PPP-B2b and MADOCA-PPP. The module is designed to provide precise navigation with fast convergence times and reliable performance through RTCM and RTK corrections.

    The module features a built-in NIC anti-jamming unit, which uses advanced algorithms to detect and eliminate interference signals. This can significantly enhance signal reception in challenging electromagnetic environments. The device can be used in complex scenarios, such as urban settings or areas with dense tree cover. Due to its high precision and low power consumption, the SparkFun Quadband GNSS RTK Breakout – LG290P is ideal for applications in intelligent robotics, UAVs, precision agriculture, mining, surveying and autonomous navigation.

  • Sodex Innovations launches terrain mapping systems

    Sodex Innovations launches terrain mapping systems

    Sodex Innovations, an Austrian company specializing in construction surveying technologies, has unveiled the SDX-4DVision and SDX-Compact machine-mounted terrain mapping systems.

    These systems integrate advanced sensor technology and artificial intelligence (AI) driven data processing to create digital twins of worksites while the machine operates. Data is uploaded to the SDX Cloud, allowing for real-time analysis from any location. This allows professionals to monitor evolving site conditions, track inventory through automated volume calculations, and make remote data-driven decisions.

    The systems are designed for easy installation on various types of heavy machinery, such as wheel loaders and dozers, making them ideal for construction, mining and civil engineering projects. Their adaptability enables efficient data collection and site monitoring, making them accessible not only to professional surveyors but also to operators and team members who are involved in daily operations.

  • GEODNET Foundation uses RTK technology for precise positioning

    GEODNET Foundation uses RTK technology for precise positioning

    The Global Earth Observation Decentralized Network (GEODNET) Foundation — the organization governing the blockchain-based global navigation network GEODNET — has introduced GEO-PULSE, a GPS navigation device to enhance positioning accuracy for everyday drivers.

    With the global vehicle count reaching 1.4 billion, reliable GPS positioning remains a challenge due to obstacles such as parking garages, trees, buildings and atmospheric interference. GEO-PULSE effectively addresses these issues by reducing location errors from 1 to 3 m to less than 0.1 m under typical driving conditions.

    GEO-PULSE includes a one-year subscription to GEODNET’s location accuracy service. The device connects seamlessly to iOS and Android devices via Bluetooth, which can improve the accuracy of navigation apps such as Google Maps to provide precise turn-by-turn directions. This connectivity ensures that smartphone users can easily access the improved navigation capabilities offered by GEO-PULSE.

    The system is powered by GEODNET’s extensive RTK network, which consists of more than 10,000 validated stations across 100 countries. The device combines sensor fusion with blockchain-powered location correction to deliver centimeter-level navigation accuracy. It supports various automotive applications, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), lane-level navigation and precise positioning for mobility services.

  • Launchpad: Anti-jamming, underwater topographic surveying, Triple-Band RTK receivers and more

    Launchpad: Anti-jamming, underwater topographic surveying, Triple-Band RTK receivers and more

    A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the November 2024 issue of GPS World magazine.

    OEM

    High-Dynamics MEMS Gyro
    Designed for precision navigation applications

    The GYPRO4300 is a high-dynamics MEMS gyro designed for precision navigation applications. It features a ±300 °/s input range, 200 Hz bandwidth and 1 ms latency, making it ideal for dynamic environments. With a bias instability of 0.4 °/h and an angular random walk of 0.07 °/√h, the GYPRO4300 offers high-performance sensing in a compact, digital and low size, weight and power (SWaP) package.

    Building on the GYPRO4300, the GYPRO4050 is a specialized north-seeking gyro for low-dynamics applications. This derivative offers 2° azimuth accuracy and is currently in the customer sampling stage. The GYPRO4050 maintains the same miniature package design as its predecessor, ensuring consistency across the product line.

    At INTERGEO 2024, TDK showcased a prototype based on an ongoing research and development project. This new development utilizes the same miniature package as the GYPRO4300 and GYPRO4050 but demonstrates ultra-low noise capabilities, achieving an azimuth accuracy of less than 1°. This product is slated for launch in 2025.

    Tronics Microsystems, tronics.tdk.com

    Anti-Jamming
    For challenging GNSS environments

    This series of anti-jamming antennas comes in two models, PT023 and PT024. The antennas are specifically engineered to operate in challenging environments characterized by complex electromagnetic interference, high-power signals and strong multipath effects.

    They are well-suited for scenarios involving low-elevation angle interference, high-power interference sources and radio communication system noise. The PT023 model utilizes multiple array elements combined with amplitude and phase manipulation to achieve spatial radiation shaping. This antenna also incorporates advanced multi-level filtering technology, effectively suppressing out-of-band noise power.

    The PT024 model features vertical and horizontal two-dimensional polarization suppressors. This design effectively mitigates the reception of both odd and even LHCP and RHCP signals originating from the rear of the antenna, according to the company. It can also suppress low-elevation multipath signals at the same frequency and out-of-band noise signals. These features seek to enhance the antenna’s performance in complex electromagnetic environments.

    Harxon Corporation, harxon.com

    Triple-Band RTK Receivers
    Integrated into ArduSimple’s evaluation boards

    The UM980, UM981 and UM982 RTK modules are integrated into the ArduSimple simpleRTK3B series to accelerate high-precision GNSS integration. Supporting Galileo High Accuracy Service (HAS) and fast update rate (50Hz), these devices are suitable for applications that require reliable and precise navigation.

    • SimpleRTK3B Budget (UM980): The most affordable step into triple-band precision.
    • SimpleRTK3B Fusion (UM981): Ideal for projects that need GNSS and inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor fusion or tilt compensation.
    • SimpleRTK3B Compass (UM982): Designed for setups requiring dual antennas to determine the heading on moving platforms.

    ArduSimple has also integrated Unicore UM980, UM981 or UM982 modules into the simpleRTK3B Micro Unicore, part of its compact Micro-format lineup. It is designed for simple PCB integration, which can significantly speed up the development process and the time to market for new products.

    Unicore, en.unicore.com

    OEM GNSS Antenna
    Full-band, full-frequency antennas

    The HX-SE402A and HX-SE403A are full-band, full-frequency antennas that integrate GNSS capabilities with a low-profile radio antenna to support 858-878MHz and 902-928MHz frequency bands. This addresses the growing need for devices requiring both navigation and communication functionalities. Harxon’s new low-profile technology achieves the same functionality at 10 mm height, allowing greater versatility in applications that demand precise positioning alongside wireless communication. Additionally, Harxon offers custom tuning services to optimize integration into OEM end-user modules for specific applications.

    Harxon Corporation, harxon.com

    UAV

    OEMs
    Engineered for autonomous applications

    Advanced Navigation has expanded its Certus product line by introducing the Certus Mini series. This development marks a significant advancement in compact and high-performance navigation technology for field robots, autonomous vehicles and UAVs.

    The Certus Mini series comes in three variants:

    • Certus Mini D: A dual-antenna inertial navigation system (INS).
    • Certus Mini N: A GNSS-aided INS.
    • Certus Mini A: An attitude and heading reference system (AHRS).

    These lightweight systems, weighing no more than 55 grams (1.9 oz), offer impressive performance and cost-efficiency for their size. The Certus Mini D utilizes dual-antenna GNSS for accurate heading, position and velocity measurements. It operates on L1/L5 multi-constellation GNSS and offers enhanced interference immunity and position accuracy, particularly in challenging urban environments. The Certus Mini series suits various applications, including surveying, agricultural robotics, open-pit mining and asset tracking.

    Advanced Navigation, advancednavigation.com

    Direct Georeferencing Solution
    Designed for UAV mapping

    The APX RTX portfolio is a new line of direct georeferencing solutions designed for UAV mapping sensors. This system enables high-accuracy mapping across diverse environments, ideal for OEMs and UAV payload integrators. At the core of the APX RTX portfolio is the Trimble CenterPoint RTX technology, which offers both real-time and post-mission direct georeferencing. This capability allows for centimeter-level accuracy without the need for base stations, making it compatible with various sensors, including cameras, lidar and hyperspectral mapping devices.

    Trimble, trimble.com

    Fixed-Wing UAV
    Integrates YellowScan Voyager lidar

    The DT46 lidar UAV is a fixed-wing system designed for long-distance inspections and the creation of precise digital twins. The DT46 model integrates the YellowScan Voyager lidar with a high-resolution RGB camera. Equipped with a laser scanner with a 100° field of view and an acquisition rate of up to 2400 kHz, the YellowScan Voyager offers optimal point density for demanding projects.

    With a flight range of up to 300 km, depending on whether vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) or catapult take-off is employed, the UAV is designed for long-distance operations and can be deployed in under 15 minutes without requiring specialized tools. This autonomous solution offers a seamless end-to-end solution for various industries requiring aerial surveying and inspection capabilities.

    DELAIR, delair.aero

    Surveying

    GNSS Receiver
    Featuring a multi-constellation antenna

    The Stonex S900 GNSS receiver features a high-accuracy, multi-constellation antenna, a powerful UHF transmitter and the GSM 4G modem for a fully integrated communications choice, combined with a light and modern design. It tracks signals from GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo and QZSS satellites. On the S900, two smart hot-swappable batteries can be inserted simultaneously, ensuring a maximum of 12 hours of operation. The power level can be checked and seen on the controller or directly on an LED bar on the battery.

    Stonex, stonex.it

    USV
    For underwater topographic surveying

    The HydroBoat 1500 is a versatile unmanned surface vessel (USV) driven by four powerful thrusters and designed to carry out underwater topographic surveys of lakes, rivers, reservoirs and other bodies of water. With a payload capacity of 60 kg, it can be integrated with the SatLab HydroBeam M4 portable multibeam echosounder, as well as a variety of other payloads such as side scan sonars and ADCPs. The vessel is IP67-rated and includes a millimeter-wave radar and 360° omnidirectional camera for accurate obstacle detection and safe navigation. It is also equipped with a dual RF and 4G cellular communications system.

    SatLab, satlab.com

    Laser RTK
    With a laser range of up to 50 m

    The Jupiter Laser RTK integrates GNSS, auto-IMU (inertial measurement unit), laser and dual-camera systems into a single unit. It incorporates a precise green laser that remains visible even in bright daylight. This feature allows for precise measurements of points in hard-to-reach, signal-blocked or potentially hazardous locations. It also features a night vision camera, allowing users to see feature points even in low-light conditions.

    The RTK system’s laser range is up to 50 m, making it suitable for challenging surveying environments. It incorporates visual technology to offer surveyors an immersive experience during surveying and stakeout operations, improving working efficiency and productivity.

    Comnav Technology, comnavtech.com

    UAV Lidar Scanner
    Designed for aerial surveying

    EchoONE combines Teledyne’s lidar and camera technology with Inertial Labs’ remote sensing payload instrument (RESEPI). EchoONE is designed for industries requiring precise aerial surveying and mapping solutions, such as land surveying, electric utility vegetation management, asset modeling, as well as transportation and infrastructure projects. Users can create detailed 3D models for infrastructure and asset management, offering valuable insights for maintenance and planning. EchoONE also generates fully undecimated georeferenced point clouds in real time, which allows for in-field verification. This capability is complemented by rapid post-processing through RESEPI’s “one-click” PC-Master Pro solution.

    Teledyne Geospatial, teledyneimaging.com

    Receiver
    With IMU tilt compensation

    The i83 Pro is an inertial measurement unit (IMU) real-time kinematic (RTK) GNSS receiver. This receiver combines GNSS capabilities with extensive compatibility options to address the diverse needs of surveying, construction, and mapping professionals. It incorporates CHCNAV’s third-generation GNSS antenna and the latest iStar algorithm, designed to boost GNSS signal tracking efficiency by 30%, according to the company. With 336 channels supporting GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo and QZSS constellations, it can achieve centimeter-level precision rapidly, even in challenging environments.

    The i83 Pro supports various GNSS surveying modes, such as RTK Networks NTRIP and UHF base-rover configurations. It features an IP68-rated enclosure for dust and water protection, a compact and lightweight design for enhanced portability, a high-resolution color display for clear status information and a 20-hour battery life for continuous operation in rover mode.

    CHC Navigation, chcnav.com

    Mapping

    Software Solution
    Featuring a GIS interface

    LP360 Land is designed to process lidar, GNSS and SLAM data from handheld sensors, particularly the TrueView GO handheld scanner. It features a GIS interface that allows users to combine various geospatial datasets and offers SLAM point cloud processing capabilities. Additionally, LP360 Land includes advanced visualization tools that support multiple synchronized windows for 2D, 3D, profile and immersive views.

    Its coordinate system management includes datum and projection transformations. The software also offers quality assurance and control (QA/QC) tools, along with data editing and cleaning functionalities. Users can perform manual and automatic registration of point clouds and utilize an image explorer for contextual analysis by linking point clouds to photos, which allows for the generation of accurate and colorized point clouds even in GPS-denied environments.

    GeoCue, geocue.com

  • Advanced Navigation, MBDA improve resilient navigation technology

    Advanced Navigation, MBDA improve resilient navigation technology

    Advanced Navigation and MBDA have partnered to co-develop a resilient navigation system that incorporates MBDA‘s NILEQ absolute positioning technology.

    The collaboration aims to provide robust absolute positioning for a variety of airborne platforms, enhancing navigation reliability in both civilian and military sectors. The joint effort is part of a broader initiative to boost research and technology development between the United Kingdom and Australia, aligning with the objectives of AUKUS Pillar 2 — a component of the security partnership between Australia, the UK and the U.S. in September 2021. The partnership includes informed decision-making, strategic autonomy and heightened combat efficiency in the face of emerging threats.

    This partnership underscores the importance of developing navigation technologies that are resilient against interference, especially in an era marked by increasing geopolitical tensions and electronic warfare threats such as GPS jamming and spoofing.

    NILEQ technology utilizes neuromorphic sensors to identify and compare terrain fingerprints, taking inspiration from biological change detection processes. This sensing technology captures data on changing terrain as an airborne system flies over it, matching this data to an existing database of the Earth’s surface. As a result, systems such as UAVs can achieve a precise position fix on land using a passive solution that is resistant to interference, which enhances the safety of beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations.

    The collaboration will conclude with a real-world demonstration of the NILEQ technology in Australia, validating its effectiveness in delivering resilient navigation solutions.

  • NaviMoon project validates GNSS technology for future Moon missions

    NaviMoon project validates GNSS technology for future Moon missions

    SpacePNT and European Engineering and Consultancy (EECL) have completed the final presentation of the European Space Agency (ESA)-funded Earth Moon GNSS Spaceborne Receiver for In-Orbit Demonstration project. This project aimed to develop and qualify the NaviMoon GNSS spaceborne receiver for lunar applications.

    Currently, geostationary orbit (GEO) and geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) missions utilize GNSS signals for in-orbit positioning, navigation and timing (PNT). NASA’s Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission has shown that GPS signal tracking is possible up to 150,000 km from Earth’s surface, which is half the distance to the Moon. ESA has assessed the feasibility of extending GNSS use for lunar missions through studies under its General Studies Program (GSP). These studies indicate that lunar navigation using GNSS might be feasible if specific high-sensitivity techniques are implemented in GNSS spaceborne receivers.

    NaviMoon is an advanced version of SpacePNT’s spaceborne GNSS receiver NaviLEO. It supports dual constellation (GPS and Galileo) and dual frequency (E1/L1 and E5a/L5) operation. The receiver is based on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components with radiation mitigation measures. It features fast digital signal processing in hardware and handles acquisition, tracking control and navigation in software. NaviMoon also includes a dedicated microcontroller for interface management and can be reprogrammed in flight.

    EECL contributed to the project by providing the GNSS reflectometry front end for remote sensing. The company developed the lunar low-noise amplifier (LNA), which is crucial for detecting ultra-weak signals at lunar distances.

    The NaviMoon project involved comprehensive testing, including mechanical tests, thermal vacuum tests, electromagnetic compatibility testing and a full GNSS test campaign. The presentation shared that it is a robust platform with high radiation tolerance and environmental performance. It aims to deliver less than 100 m accuracy at Moon distance while reducing dependence on costly Earth infrastructure for orbit determination.

    This project was funded under ESA’s NAVISP program, which is dedicated to European industrial technology innovation in the PNT sector. It also received support from ESA’s GNSS Science Advisory Committee (GSAC).

  • ANELLO Photonics advances autonomous applications

    ANELLO Photonics advances autonomous applications

    ANELLO Photonics has successfully closed its Series B funding round to advance the development of its silicon photonic optical gyroscope (SiPhOG) technology for navigation in GPS-denied environments.

    This funding round was co-led by Lockheed Martin, Catapult Ventures and One Madison Group, with participation from several other investors, including New Legacy, Build Collective, Trousdale Ventures, In-Q-Tel (IQT), K2 Access Fund, Purdue Strategic Ventures, Santuri Ventures, Handshake Ventures, Irongate Capital and Mana Ventures.

    ANELLO’s SiPhOG technology integrates high-precision optical fiber gyro performance onto a silicon photonics platform. This innovative solution boasts a low drift rate of less than 0.5° per hour, a compact size comparable to a golf ball, and low power consumption. Additionally, it is designed to withstand shock and vibration while remaining cost-effective compared to traditional fiber-optic gyroscopes.

    The technology is tailored for various autonomous applications across multiple sectors, such as land vehicles, UAVs, underwater vehicles, construction and agriculture equipment.

    In the context of defense and national security systems, ANELLO’s solutions have demonstrated impressive performance in GPS-denied environments. According to the company, the system can navigate 100 km with less than 100 m of lateral error without relying on GPS and maintains accuracy within 0.1 m over distances of 0.8 km in orchard environments where GPS signals are limited.

    ANELLO’s SiPhOG technology aims to bridge the gap between high-performance, expensive sensors such as fiber-optic and ring laser gyros and low-cost, less precise MEMS gyros. This strategic positioning addresses the increasing demand for cost-effective yet high-performance navigation sensors in the expanding autonomous navigation market.

    The funding is anticipated to enhance ANELLO’s manufacturing capabilities and product development to meet its goal of delivering reliable navigation solutions for environments where GPS signals are weak or unavailable. These environments include construction sites, agricultural fields, trucking operations, robotics, unmanned aerial and underwater vehicles, autonomous vehicles, as well as defense and national security applications.

  • WingXpand, Raytheon enhance AI-solutions, launch VOTL

    WingXpand, Raytheon enhance AI-solutions, launch VOTL

    WingXpand, a U.S. provider of autonomous smart planes with artificial intelligence (AI) threat detection capabilities, has collaborated with RTX’s Raytheon. The partnership aims to enhance the capabilities of WingXpand’s smart planes, which already feature a library of AI algorithms designed to provide soldiers with real-time threat identification.

    Enhanced threat detection

    The smart planes’ open systems architecture allows for the seamless integration of organic and third-party applications and payloads, designed for mission flexibility as threats and tactics evolve. Raytheon’s advanced infrared technology seeks to enhance the capabilities of WingXpand’s smart planes by improving their ability to detect and identify potential threats at greater distances. This integration allows tactical ground units and command leadership to receive more precise, real-time information about their surroundings, facilitating faster and more informed decision-making in the field.

    New VTOL capability

    In addition to the Raytheon collaboration, WingXpand has introduced a new vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability for its xRAI smart plane. This feature expands the operational versatility of the aircraft, which is designed to be compact enough to fit in a backpack. The VTOL option allows the xRAI to take off and land vertically, making it ideal for operations in tight spaces and challenging environments. WingXpand’s smart planes can be used in both defense and civil missions.

  • Silicon Sensing Systems to supply gyroscopes for Mars Moon rover

    Silicon Sensing Systems to supply gyroscopes for Mars Moon rover

    Silicon Sensing Systems has been contracted by the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) to supply two miniature Pinpoint (CRM200) gyroscopes for the Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission. This mission will travel to Mars to survey the two moons that orbit the planet.

    The gyroscopes will be installed on the rover vehicle set to explore Phobos — the larger of Mars’ two moons — to collect crucial surface samples. The Pinpoint gyroscopes are designed to detect any unintended movement of the rover on unfamiliar terrain. Depending on the initial assessment of the drivetrain, which includes the gyroscopes, an optional safety module may be activated in the software. This module will automatically prevent instability during the rover’s driving sessions.

    Pinpoint completed TID testing at 17kRad Radiation and Proton tests (up to 68 MeV/proton), demonstrating the gyro’s suitability for space requirements.  

    The size of a small fingernail, at approximately 5mm by 6mm, PinPoint is the smallest gyro in Silicon Sensing’s MEMS product range. This low-drift, single-axis angular rate sensor can be used in various applications.  When integrated, these sensors can precisely measure angular rate across multiple axes — any combination of pitch, yaw and roll —while consuming little power.

    The MMX mission is conducted by the Japanese Space Agency (JAXA) to explore Mars’ two moons, with contributions from NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), CNES and the German Aerospace Center (DLR). CNES and DLR are jointly developing a 25-kg rover for the mission. The spacecraft is expected to arrive in Martian space approximately one year after departing from Earth and will then enter orbit around Mars.

    It will then move into a quasi-satellite orbit (QSO) around the Martian moon Phobos to collect scientific data, drop the rover and gather a sample of the moon’s surface. After observation and sample collection, the spacecraft will return to Earth carrying the material gathered from Phobos. The current schedule has a launch date in 2026, followed by a Martian orbit insertion in 2027 and a return to Earth in 2031. 

  • Sikorsky, Rain demonstrate wildfire mission autonomy

    Sikorsky, Rain demonstrate wildfire mission autonomy

    Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, and Rain, a provider of autonomous aerial wildfire containment technology, successfully demonstrated how an autonomous Black Hawk helicopter can be commanded to take off, identify the location and size of a small fire and then accurately drop water to suppress the flames.

    At Sikorsky headquarters in Stratford, Connecticut, the Rapid Wildfire Response Demonstration showcased the integration of Sikorsky’s MATRIX flight autonomy with Rain’s wildfire mission autonomy system to suppress a fire in its early stages.

    Representatives from NASA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the Orange County Fire Authority and the philanthropic and impact investment community witnessed the demonstration as part of a two-day wildlands firefighting meeting to discuss autonomy.

    During the 30-minute flight demonstration, guests used a tablet to command the Black Hawk aircraft to take off, search for and find the fire and then drop water from a Bambi Bucket slung 60 ft beneath the aircraft. Each of three successive water drops extinguished a 12-inch-diameter propane-fueled fire ring emitting a 3-to-6-inch-tall flame, demonstrating the precision of the Rain fire perception and targeting capability. The Rain system also rapidly adjusted the flight path to account for an 8-to-10-knot crosswind during each water drop. Sikorsky safety pilots in the Black Hawk cockpit monitored the flight controls but were hands-off until the aircraft landed.

  • Trimble expands collaboration with The HALO Trust on landmine clearance efforts

    Trimble expands collaboration with The HALO Trust on landmine clearance efforts

    Trimble has expanded support for The HALO Trust, the world’s largest humanitarian landmine-clearance nonprofit organization. Trimble is donating an additional 175 Trimble Catalyst GNSS systems, including Trimble DA2 GNSS receivers, to help The HALO Trust further its demining operations worldwide.

    Building on the impact of the ongoing collaboration, Trimble’s latest donation will support the expansion and productivity of The HALO Trust’s mine clearance teams. The Catalyst GNSS system provides The HALO Trust with a solution for deploying precise mapping capabilities to large field teams across broad geographic areas. More field teams can now be equipped with the necessary tools to safely and efficiently clear landmines, thereby accelerating the pace of landmine clearance globally.

    Since receiving Trimble’s product donations and the Trimble Foundation Fund-directed grant, The HALO Trust has made significant progress in landmine and unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance. From January to September 2024 alone, The HALO Trust cleared 802 minefields and battlefields, covering a total area of 10,400 acres across 12 war-torn countries. During this period, 31,209 landmines and other Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) were safely destroyed — all accurately mapped using the Trimble Catalyst GNSS system. The HALO Trust’s use of Trimble technology has significantly improved operational efficiency and provided essential data for safe land reclamation and development. According to The HALO Trust, the accuracy and reliability of Trimble’s technology have been crucial in ensuring the safety and success of demining operations in areas severely affected by conflict, such as Ukraine, Angola and Sri Lanka.

  • Europe moving toward a “timing backbone” and looking for input

    Europe moving toward a “timing backbone” and looking for input

    Citing a need for better “positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) resilience, availability and continuity,” a market consultation document from the EU’s Joint Research Center (JRC) says establishing a resilient PNT ecosystem is essential for “…EU autonomy, the economy’s overall resilience and EU global standing.” Therefore, creating this system-of-system ecosystem “… should be considered a critical priority for the EU.”

    Such an approach to PNT and resilience is a major feature of the 2023 European Radio Navigation Plan.

    According to the JRC, complementary (or continuous) PNT, or C-PNT, is the combination of existing space assets (GNSS) and future services that can work together in the multi-system ecosystem. This extends the service to areas where GNSS is not available and increases overall resilience.

    The JRC document goes on to say, “The first step towards the creation of such a C-PNT ecosystem is the deployment of the terrestrial timing backbone.”

    Such a backbone would:

    • Interconnect existing Member States (MS) National Metrological Institutes (NMI) and National Research and Education Networks (NREN) architectures into a pan-European network.
    • Maintain and (if possible) enhance the existing use cases (NMI, NREN and their existing commercial customers) and enable time connections to critical entities (CE), as regulated by the directive on the resilience of critical entities, while also promoting GNSS for additional resilience.
    •  Enable the commercial utilization of timing backbone to enhance EU competitiveness and enable further growth.

    Responsibility for navigation issues with the European Union is somewhat dispersed. The European Radio Navigation Plan is developed as a staff working document published by the European Commission’s Director General for Defense, Industry and Space (DG DEIFS). This directorate implements the EU Space Programme, which is, in turn, managed by EUSPA, an EU executive agency.

    At the same time the European Space Agency’s Navigation Directorate is responsible for “…positioning, navigation, and timing services of the European satellite navigation system Galileo and the augmentation system EGNOS” under agreement with EC. It is also responsible for ”…exploring future applications of navigation technologies for science and daily life.”

    This latter includes the Navigation Innovation and Support Program (NAVISP). And while space is an important consideration in NAVISP, the program has funded some decidedly non-space projects such as the UK’s MarRINav effort which focused on terrestrial PNT, and development of an eLoran antenna for handheld devices.

    The Joint Research Center supports a wide range of EU stakeholders for PNT efforts including DG DEFIS, ESA, member states, and pan-European organizations.

    A “market consultation” may not seem to many as an affirmative step toward establishing a timing backbone for Europe. Experienced observers, though, point to the wealth of documentation both ESA and DG DEFIS have produced on the need for PNT resilience and the benefits that will accrue to member nations.

    “The EU is very consultation and consensus-driven,” says timing expert Magnus Danielson at Net Insight. “So, you are not going to see the kind of top-down orders to do things as you might for a single state. Some of these decisions are made by each member state, as they should be. I am sure (European) Commission and ESA officials have seen what Sweden has done with distributed timing clocks operated by Netnoed, what the U.K. NPL is doing with its clock network, and are concerned about Russian jamming and spoofing in Ukraine and the Baltic. It’s pretty easy to connect the dots and make reinforcing PNT for Europe’s critical infrastructure and applications a priority. Working with the EC-JRC to develop this has been rewarding. Here’s hoping they move quickly enough. Several member states and friendly neighbors have already responded positively, and I sure the market consultation feedback will aid in moving decisions forward.”

    The concept of a system-of-systems approach to resilient PNT that is underpinned by network timing is not a new one. The 2008 U. S. National PNT Architecture articulated such an approach, though it was never implemented. In 2020 the RNT Foundation expanded on this idea in a paper advocating a U.S. national resilient timing architecture using signals from space, fiber, and terrestrial broadcast. China’s National Timing Service Center adopted a similar strategy. Media reports indicate China has completed or will soon complete its High Accuracy, Ground-based Timing System with 20,000km of fiber, 295 timing stations, and nation-wide eLoran service.

    The EU is asking for input about a European Timing Backbone and is interested in hearing from anyone, whether or not they are EU citizens.*

    Visit the EU Science Hub page before Dec. 9 and take the survey.