Lost GPS signals now verified as caused by Northern Lights

William Atkins
Monday, 23 June 2008 18:31

Science - Climate

The Global Positioning System (GPS), developed by the U.S. military, uses a series of satellites orbiting about 12,600 miles (20,280 kilometers) above the Earth’s surface.

Small electronic receivers, which are positioned on Earth, pick up signals from these satellites in order to calculate locations (longitude, latitude, and altitude) on Earth within a few meters of actual position.

For instance, a person holding a GPS-enabled cell phone or having a GPS-enabled device inside a car, would be able to find out their position with the use of such systems.

Lead researcher in the study, Cathryn Mitchell, stated that GPS problems are likely to occur more frequently in the next four years or so as activities within the Northern Lights increases in strength.

She stated, "Anywhere that the aurora is visible, it will cause disruption. Although most people in the UK can't see the aurora when it is happening, because of cloud or ambient light, it can still affect the GPS signal."

Mitchell concluded, "We have just passed a minimum in activity but we are due to hit a maximum in 2012, which is when we would expect to see most disruption." [Telegraph: “GPS failing? Blame the Northern Lights”]