GPS Spectrum and Interference Issues
The Global Positioning System uses radio signals in frequencies (spectrum) reserved for radio navigation services. Ensuring the continuity of the GPS service requires protection of this spectrum from interference.
GPS interference can come from a variety of sources, including radio emissions in nearby bands, intentional or unintentional jamming, and naturally occurring space weather.
The U.S. government works to minimize human sources of GPS interference through spectrum regulations (domestic and international), interference detection and mitigation efforts, and law enforcement.
Civilian GPS users who experience problems due to suspected radio interference are urged to report them to the U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Center. Go there...
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LightSquared and GPS
LightSquared is a company seeking FCC approval to provide a broadband wireless network integrated with satellite coverage. The GPS community is concerned that LightSquared's ground transmissions could overpower the GPS signals. Learn more... -
GPS Jamming
The FCC is clamping down on the marketing, sale, and use of illegal cellphone and GPS jamming devices. Despite some marketers' claims, consumers cannot legally use cell and GPS jammers within the United States. Learn more... -
Interference Detection and Mitigation
The Department of Homeland Security has developed a concept known as "Patriot Watch" that is designed to identify, analyze, locate, attribute, and mitigate sources of harmful GPS interference. Learn more... -
Space Weather
Solar activity, geomagnetic storms, and other natural phenomena can disturb the radio environment on Earth in ways that impact GPS reception. Learn more...