Astranis and Xona Space Systems Team Up for U.S. Space Force’s R-GPS Program
WASHINGTON — Satellite manufacturer Astranis has announced a strategic partnership with navigation startup Xona Space Systems to compete for a U.S. Space Force contract aimed at developing a backup to the military’s GPS system. This partnership underscores the importance of ensuring global positioning and navigation capabilities remain resilient and dependable amid increasing threats.
Collaborating to Develop R-GPS
Astranis, based in California, specializes in building small geostationary satellites for internet connectivity and has secured an $8 million contract for the initial design phase of the Resilient Global Positioning System (R-GPS) program. This program seeks to deploy smaller, more cost-effective satellites to supplement the existing GPS constellation.
The Multi-Contractor Approach
The U.S. Space Force selected four companies to develop competing designs for the R-GPS initiative. These include Axient, L3 Harris, Sierra Space, and Astranis itself. One or two contractors will be chosen to build an initial fleet of eight satellites, with a targeted launch date in 2028.
Astranis and Xona’s Innovative Solution
Astranis is leveraging its existing satellite platform and integrating positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) algorithms developed by Xona Space. These algorithms will operate on Astranis’ software-defined radio hardware, creating a network that offers greater redundancy within the GPS infrastructure.
The PNT Algorithms Framework
Xona Space, also based in California, brings extensive experience from its commercial PNT service using low-Earth orbit satellites. This service serves as a viable alternative to traditional GPS, positioning it as a strong ally in the R-GPS initiative.
Ensuring Redundancy and Addressing Threats
Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall has designated the R-GPS initiative as a high-priority project, accounting for the growing electronic and cyber threats to the current GPS infrastructure. The new satellites will broadcast military M-Code signals and standard GPS frequencies, ensuring robust connectivity and timeliness of positioning information.
Stay Informed About Space Force Innovations
✨ Stay tuned for the latest updates and developments as Astranis and Xona Space Systems push towards creating a resilient GPS system. We’ll keep you updated on the progress of the R-GPS program and its impact on global positioning and navigation services. ✨
To learn more about the R-GPS project and its impact on military positioning:
- Space Force Taps Four Companies to Design Resilient GPS Satellites
- Space Force Defends Plan to Buy Smaller, Cheaper Satellites to Reinforce GPS
- Xona Raises $19 Million in Series A to Advance Satellite Navigation Service
