SpaceX has disabled Starlink's previously accessible positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) feature that some users had been utilizing as a GPS alternative. Despite the shutdown, researchers believe Starlink's satellite constellation could still serve as a valuable backup navigation system due to its technical advantages over traditional GPS. The move comes as GPS jamming and spoofing incidents increase globally, highlighting the need for alternative navigation solutions.
Background
Starlink is SpaceX's satellite internet constellation providing global broadband coverage. While primarily a communications network, it was discovered that the system could also provide positioning data similar to GPS, though this was not its primary design purpose.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- May 12, 2026 at 01:55 AM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10