The development race for Galileo is open

Technical information on Galileo's open service is now available to developers - go for it!

By Ryan Skinner (email)

A week or so ago, the EU made public Interface Control Documentation for the Galileo's open service global navigation satellite system. Any technology developer who can find a use for satellite positioning information, and there are plenty in the shipping space, can now begin to prepare their technology for the launch of Galileo.

Like GPS, Galileo's open service will allow any technology to access a given signal, rated below the 1260-1300 MHz commercial subscription band. This opens up a world of navigational possibilities, though the free service (and potentially the paying service) may still have issues related to jamming.

One big bonus of Galileo contra GPS will be its better coverage at high latitudes. No more problems getting GNSS signals in Arctic regions...