Maxar created an alternative to GPS for drones based on 3D maps

Currently, drones are increasingly being used in combat operations, but they have one major weakness - they need GPS data. Maxar is working on a solution for situations where they are not available. A product called Raptor uses satellite mapping to create a 3D globe that can serve as an alternative to GPS. This is reported by UNN with reference to Dronedj.

Details

It is noted that drone operators will be able to use Raptor for precise navigation without GPS. The data collected by Maxar satellites is accurate and up-to-date enough to not only control the drone, but also accurately determine the coordinates of ground objects. This capability will be useful in situations where the enemy is blocking GPS in a certain area.

Raptor works with several pieces of software:

• Raptor Guide - loaded directly onto the drone to provide location data;

• Raptor Ace - installed on a laptop that contains a Maxar 3D map and can provide latitude coordinates;

• Raptor Sync - can receive visual and other drone sensor readings and transmit them to Ace.

Thanks to Maxar's fleet of orbital satellites, the company can provide a map of the entire globe for operations anywhere in the world. The company can also provide rapid updates for a specific region depending on user needs.

Raptor is somewhat inferior to GPS, as it can provide accurate coordinates for ground targets at a distance of up to 3 meters, but for now it is the only alternative.

Raptor will be a game changer for customers in the defense and commercial sectors. This software uses Maxar's unique 3D global terrain data to ensure that autonomous systems get the job done no matter what GPS obstacles they encounter,""

Ukrainians will once again have access to Maxar satellite imagery12.03.25, 12:48 • 14061 view