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Beyond GPS: Xona's New Satellite Constellation Launches
9 Oct
Summary
- Xona Space Systems is launching six satellites this month for a new navigation service.
- The Pulsar constellation aims for centimeter-level precision, surpassing GPS.
- The system is designed to be resistant to jamming and operate indoors.
Startup Xona Space Systems is set to launch six satellites this month, introducing a commercial precision navigation service to rival existing government-provided systems.
Founded in 2019 by Stanford-educated engineers, Xona aims to overcome the limitations of GPS, such as susceptibility to jamming and meter-level precision, which hinder applications like autonomous vehicles and precision farming.
The new constellation, named Pulsar, will offer centimeter-level accuracy and a stronger signal designed to penetrate buildings and resist interference.
This month's launch includes four satellites based on a successful prototype and two fully in-house built units, forming the foundation for Xona's future 258-satellite network.
Xona has secured over $300 million in funding, including investment from the U.S. Space Force, highlighting governmental interest in its anti-jamming capabilities.
Beta testing is expected to commence once the satellites are operational, with full coverage planned for the U.S., Europe, Japan, and South Korea by 2028.
