New York-based Orolia is providing GNSS simulation for Xona Space System’s low-Earth-orbit (LEO) constellation and navigation signals.

Orolia, a Safran Electronics company, has partnered with California-based Xona Space Systems to support its LEO constellation and navigation signals in its Skydel-powered simulation and testing products.

Xona is developing Pulsar, a positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) service enabled by a commercial constellation of dedicated LEO satellites.

The Pulsar service aims to advance global PNT security, resilience and accuracy by augmenting existing GNSS while also operating as an independent PNT constellation. Xona’s high-power signals use modern signal structures and security techniques, adding resilience in difficult RF environments.

Skydel powers Safran’s portfolio of GNSS simulators such as the GSG-8.

“Our Skydel GNSS simulation engine will provide support for Xona’s Pulsar signals and satellite constellation to offer OEMs, developers and integrators a unique tool that enables early testing and validation of Xona’s LEO PNT signal performance,” said Pierre-Marie Le Véel, GNSS products director with Safran.

Brian Manning, CEO of Xona Space Systems, added: “Offering a new generation of satellite navigation and timing services allows receiver manufacturers to develop entirely new capabilities for end users. Xona’s mission is to enable modern technologies to operate safely in any environment, anywhere on Earth. Having market-proven simulation is critical to support the development of these new applications and technologies, which is why we are excited to be working with Safran to provide next-generation GNSS simulation tools to our partners and customers.”

Safran is a high-technology group operating in the aviation, defence and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 83,000 employees and sales of €19bn in 2022.

Xona Space Systems is developing a commercial satellite navigation and timing system designed to meet the needs of modern systems. Delivered via secure, high-power signals from Xona’s LEO satellites, the Pulsar service aims to enable the next wave of connected technology. Xona is headquartered in Burlingame, California, with offices in Canada and the UK.