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Navigating the Threats of GPS Spoofing for Mobile Satellite Terminals

Nov 23, 2024

GPS (Global Positioning System) provides the accurate location and timing information that mobile satellite terminals rely on. For satellite acquisition, GPS coordinates help the terminal to point correctly at the satellite, ensuring robust and stable connections. Accurate GPS timing is also vital for modems to synchronize with the satellite network, ensuring data is transmitted and received efficiently.

When these signals are disrupted or tampered with, it can lead to inaccurate positioning and timing, causing significant disruptions in communication. This is where GPS spoofing comes into play.

GPS spoofing is a malicious tactic where false GPS signals are transmitted to deceive a GPS receiver. This can cause the receiver to calculate incorrect position or timing information. In the context of mobile satellite terminals, spoofing can lead to incorrect satellite alignment, resulting in degraded or lost communications. It can also disrupt the network timing of modems, leading to synchronisation issues and potential data loss or loss of link.

 

 

Recognising the vulnerabilities associated with GPS reliance, we have developed our next-generation land terminals like the SCORPION, SCORPION-LITE and SCARAB allow operators to manually input location data directly into the system. This capability ensures that the terminal can still acquire the satellite correctly and maintain communication links without relying solely on GPS signals.

Acquiring Inclined Orbit Satellites

Our AIM control unit is engineered to track non-geostationary (non-GEO) satellites, including those in inclined orbits. These inclined orbit satellites can present challenges due to their unique movement patterns, but the AIM control unit is equipped with sophisticated functionalities to address these challenges.

Toast rack Search Method

One of the key features of the AIM control unit is its ability to perform a toast rack search. This method utilises the beamwidth of the satellite, the inclination angle, and the estimated position (box centre) of where the satellite should be. By carefully calculating these parameters, the AIM control unit systematically scans the sky, ensuring that the antenna is accurately aligned with the satellite’s position. This process optimises the acquisition and tracking of inclined orbit satellites, providing reliable communication links.

This video show a deployment to SKYNET 4E which has an incliniation of 14º

Our Services

Our Mission.

Is to empower our customers with the most advanced satellite communication systems, ensuring seamless connectivity even in the most remote and challenging environments.

Get in touch

Telephone

+44 (0) 1525 721118

Email

sales@holkirk.com

Address

Unit 19 Kenneth Way
Wilstead Business Park
Wilstead
Bedfordshire
MK45 3PD

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