First Demonstration of Pulsar Positioning System, Year 2 (PPS)

A pulsar based positioning system requires precision timing of an ensemble of pulsars. We will develop non-linear estimation methods, tailored to physical models that use the timing data from our ongoing DSN timing program, to arrive at a precise positioning solution, similar to how JPL works.

Pulsars are fantastic cosmic clocks and can be used as nature's GPS. We will carry out, for the first time a demonstration of this capability using ground-based radio pulsar timing measurements.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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