Seminar: The Future of GPS - Apr. 4
Mark Crews
PNT Senior Fellow, Lockheed Martin
Friday, Apr. 4 | 10:40 a.m. | AERO 114
Abstract: The Global Positioning System (GPS) has greatly increased efficiency and effectiveness of multiple industries that leverage GPS signals for Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT).Ìý
The next generation of GPS III and GPS IIIF satellites are poised to increase performance for GPS users worldwide. GPS consists of three segments: Ìýspace, ground, and user. The Space Segment includes a constellation of 31 satellites with seven GPS III satellites in the constellation and three more available for launch. When the Follow-on GPS IIIF satellites begin launch in 2026, GPS IIIF satellites will broadcast 60X more anti-jam power for warfighters.Ìý
Lockheed Martin also supports US Space Force operations of the GPS Control Segment, which includes a master and alternate master control stations with 16 worldwide monitor stations that constantly GPS satellite signals. The GPS User Segment includes billions of civilian GPS receivers and low millions of military GPS user equipment. The GPS enterprise has worked together seamlessly for decades to deliver robust PNT services to civil and military users. One of the most important examples of user services is the augmented use of GPS for Space-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) services utilized by civil aviation for precision approaches. SBAS provides integrity assurance for aviation operations without Instrument Landing System (ILS) infrastructure. This presentation provides an overview of GPS satellite modernization and how SBAS leverages GPS for Safety-of-Life operations.
Biography: Dr. Mark Crews is the LM Space Senior Fellow for Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) at Lockheed Martin. Dr. Crews directs the development of the next generation GPS architecture including laser crosslinks and advanced navigation payloads. He works closely with Government customers to incorporate new PNT requirements into innovative, compliant, and affordable designs.Ìý
His previous roles have included GPS Chief Engineer at the GPS Directorate; Chief of the Starfire Optical Range Beam Control Division; Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering at the USAF Academy; Mission Systems Architect at Ball Aerospace; and Chief Technology Officer at ITT Space Systems Division. Dr. Crews is a retired Air Force Colonel. Dr. Crews has a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Oxford.