GPS has become synonymous with the Global satellite navigation system (GNSS). GPS, initiated by the US Defense in 1978, is the oldest navigation system. However, other systems exist, including GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo, Quasi-Zenith, and India’s recently announced NavIC. In this article, we delve into these GPS alternatives, examining coverage, accuracy, orbital height, and other defining features. Let’s now explore these alternatives.
Top GPS Alternatives in 2020
1. NavIC
NavIC, a new satellite navigation system, shows great promise despite its novelty. Developed by India for its region and neighboring countries, NavIC is distinct from GPS, the global counterpart. Unlike GPS, NavIC serves as a regional navigation system. For a comprehensive understanding of NavIC’s superiority over GPS, refer to our detailed article. Constellation of NavIC Satellites / Source: ISRO
Essentially, GPS covers the world for location positioning while NavIC primarily covers India and some neighboring regions. NavIC is relatively more accurate than GPS in India because NavIC satellites are always in direct line of sight with India’s region. In summary, NavIC is an autonomous satellite navigation system for India and appears to be a better alternative to GPS. Additionally, India plans to launch at least 5 more satellites in the coming years.
2. GLONASS
If there’s a satellite navigation system that rivals GPS in coverage and accuracy, it’s GLONASS. Developed and operated by Russia, it’s been operational since 1995, boasting 24 satellites compared to GPS’ 31. Maintaining this constellation since 2010 ensures its global functionality.
Both GLONASS and GPS share almost identical orbital height and period, making them essentially the same. Regarding accuracy, GLONASS boasts a precision of 5-10 meters, comparable to GPS’ 4-7 meters. Enhanced accuracy is achieved through local cellular triangulation. In summary, GLONASS, Russia’s satellite navigation system, is second only to GPS.
3. BeiDou
BeiDou, a global navigation satellite system akin to GPS, is operated by China. Launched in 2000 as an alternative to GPS, the project initially comprised only 2 satellites, resulting in limited coverage and accuracy issues. However, in 2012 and 2015, China expanded the constellation by launching 10 and 15 additional satellites respectively.
Post-2015, China added 7 satellites, expanding the BeiDou constellation to 33 operational satellites. In terms of coverage, BeiDou rivals the US’ GPS. The accuracy is reported to be 3-5 meters, with military applications achieving 10cm precision. BeiDou stands as a formidable alternative to GPS.
4. Galileo
Major countries each had their satellite navigation systems, prompting the European Union to develop its own GNSS. Development commenced in 2005, with the Galileo constellation becoming operational in 2016. Galileo functions as a global navigation satellite system akin to GPS and GLONASS. Currently, the constellation boasts 22 operational satellites orbiting Earth, with plans to reach 30 by year’s end.
Regarding functionality, GPS and Galileo operate similarly, though Galileo has experienced challenges with Atomic clocks and weak signals recently. Nonetheless, Galileo is poised to improve upon reaching Full Operational Capability (FOC) in 2020, emerging as a robust GPS alternative.
5. Quasi-Zenith
The Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) is a regional navigation system developed by Japan, similar to India’s NavIC. QZSS, also known as Michibiki in Japanese, comprises four satellites. Japan initiated the project in 2010 and made the service available to the public in 2018. Like GPS, the aim of Quasi-Zenith is to provide precise and stable positioning services in Japan and parts of Asia-Oceania. Despite slow development, Japan aims to launch seven more satellites by 2023. Source: Wikipedia
Similar to NavIC, QZSS also follows the principle of ‘direct line of sight at all times’ in sync with Japan’s coordinates. It deploys satellites in both geostationary and geosynchronous orbits to ensure that at least one satellite is visible over Japan at all times. In conclusion, Japan’s QZSS isn’t on par with the US’ GPS, but it shows promise and potential for expansion.
The 5 Best GPS Alternative Systems
Those are the 5 GPS alternatives developed by Russia, China, India, the European Union, and Japan. Only a handful of countries have invested in building their indigenous satellite navigation systems primarily for self-dependency during aerial, submarine, and terrestrial warfare. It’s noteworthy that users cannot choose which GNSS system to use; it depends on the smartphone hardware and navigation apps they use. Keep that in mind. That concludes our discussion—share your thoughts in the comments below.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
