The National Standards Authority of Ireland’s National Metrology Laboratory (NSAI NML) has announced the launch of Europe’s first ever verified GPS/GNSS Data Stream service, an extension to the National Timing Grid of Ireland.
The initiative is designed to ensure the availability of secure and reliable Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) data.
GNSS systems, such as the US’s Global Positioning System (GPS) and the EU’s Galileo, provide real-time navigation assistance for people helping them find the most efficient routes, avoid traffic, and reach their destinations safely and quickly.
In emergency situations, GNSS devices help locate individuals quickly, allowing first responders to reach them faster.
Navigation systems can be exploited for criminal activities, including signal jamming and spoofing, both of which can disrupt crucial services and threaten public safety.
By offering a verified stream of GNSS data, this new service mitigates these risks, ensuring that users can trust the accuracy and reliability of their location and timing data.
“We are so excited to be launching in Ireland, Europe’s first ever Verified GNSS/GPS Data Stream service,” said David Fleming, NSAI Technical Manager for Time & Frequency.
“As Ireland’s digital economy continues to grow and more services and public safety aspects are dependent on GNSS/GPS data, the importance of verifiable GNSS/GPS data in Ireland is paramount which made the establishment of this service a key priority for the NSAI NML,” Mr Fleming said.
The new service is being developed with specialist partner Timing Solutions, a NovaUCD and ESA BIC Ireland client company.
“The Timing Solutions team is delighted to be taking the lead in establishing Ireland as one of the leading countries around the world with respect to the provision of safe GNSS/GPS data and signals thereby improving the resiliency of the critical infrastructure sectors,” said Dr Zdenek Chaloupka, Founder, Timing Solutions.