Xona Space Systems Develops Resilient GPS Alternative with Pulsar Satellites

In an era where GPS signals are increasingly vulnerable to jamming and spoofing, Xona Space Systems is pioneering a robust alternative with its Pulsar satellite constellation. Launching a 150-kilogram satellite aboard SpaceX’s Transporter 14 mission, Xona aims to revolutionize satellite navigation by orbiting satellites approximately 12,000 miles closer to Earth than traditional GPS satellites. This proximity allows Pulsar to transmit signals that are roughly 100 times stronger, significantly improving accuracy and resistance to interference.

Why does this matter? The current GPS system, operational since 1993, underpins countless critical applications—from guiding offshore drilling to synchronizing power grids and enabling everyday navigation apps. Yet its signals, transmitted from medium Earth orbit about 12,550 miles above Earth, are faint and susceptible to disruption by cheap jammers or environmental factors like space weather and 5G interference.

Xona’s founders initially focused on enabling safe, affordable autonomous driving by improving satellite navigation accuracy. Current GPS accuracy, typically at the meter level, is insufficient for self-driving cars that must navigate complex urban environments with precision. Pulsar’s design targets accuracy within three inches (10 centimeters), enabling vehicles to maintain lane discipline and safely share space with humans.

The geopolitical landscape has accelerated the urgency for a GPS alternative. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, GPS jamming and spoofing have become tactical tools in drone warfare, rendering precision munitions ineffective and disrupting civilian navigation. The problem extends beyond conflict zones, with airports in the U.S. experiencing GPS outages due to unidentified interference, highlighting the widespread vulnerability of current systems.

Xona’s Pulsar constellation plans to deploy 258 satellites in low Earth orbit by 2030, providing continuous global coverage with signals that penetrate indoor environments and resist jamming. The system is designed to be compatible with existing GPS receivers, easing adoption across industries reliant on precise positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) data.

While Pulsar is a promising solution, experts emphasize that no single approach will fully solve GPS vulnerabilities. Complementary technologies such as inertial navigation systems, optical fiber PNT distribution, and atomic clock networks are also advancing. Nonetheless, space-based solutions like Pulsar remain critical for providing ubiquitous, reliable navigation worldwide.

Xona’s upcoming satellite launch marks a significant milestone in the race to secure global navigation infrastructure. As the Pulsar constellation grows, it promises to safeguard the technologies and industries that depend on precise and resilient positioning data—from autonomous vehicles to national security and beyond.