AI-Based GPS Without Satellites: The Future Of Navigation
Using AI technology for navigation on Earth can provide a more secure alternative to satellite-based systems. This approach can help protect critical infrastructure from potential cyber threats. By utilizing existing sensors, this AI-based navigation system can offer a reliable and efficient solution. The system's ability to outsmart satellites demonstrates its potential for advanced security measures. Implementing this technology could enhance the resilience of key systems against cyberattacks.
The Future of Navigation: Earth-Based Technology
Every minute of every day, our cars and phones look to the heavens for guidance. But what if they could navigate by listening to the earth instead? Austin-based startup Tern AI has demonstrated a groundbreaking positioning system that can navigate without satellites—potentially transforming how we move through the world while addressing critical national security concerns.
Navigating Without Satellites
We've built our modern world on a surprisingly fragile foundation. From aviation and road networks to emergency services and power grids, countless critical systems depend entirely on Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites orbiting 12,000 miles above us.
“We've got an increased threat from foreign adversaries who have shown capabilities to jam, to destroy, to spoof the signals of GPS, which is scary,” said Shaun Moore, CEO and co-founder of Tern AI. “The economic impact in the United States, if that were to happen, would be catastrophic.”
These concerns aren't theoretical. Just last month, House Intelligence Committee leaders warned of “a serious national security threat” involving Russian capabilities to target satellites, including GPS systems.
When navigation systems go dark, everything from food deliveries to military operations grinds to a halt. But what if we could navigate without ever looking up?
Tern AI's Innovative Solution
Tern AI's solution sounds almost impossibly simple: use artificial intelligence to determine location solely from vehicle sensor data and map information—no satellite connection required. The company's Independently Derived Positioning System (IDPSTM) works by running proprietary AI on third-party base maps and analyzing data from existing sensors in vehicles and smartphones.
By combining this data with sophisticated maps, Tern's AI can pinpoint location with remarkable accuracy. The technology works in places GPS can't reach: parking garages, tunnels, mountain valleys. And unlike GPS, it can't be jammed or spoofed by adversaries.
From Concept to Reality
Skepticism about alternatives to GPS is natural—we've relied on this technology for decades. But Tern AI is rapidly moving from concept to commercial reality. After emerging from stealth in February 2024, Tern secured funding and received recognition from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).
Unlike other GPS alternatives, Tern's solution requires no expensive new infrastructure—just a software download to compatible vehicles or smartphones.
The Way Forward
As geopolitical tensions rise and threats to satellite infrastructure grow more pronounced, Tern AI's earth-bound navigation system may soon prove that sometimes, the best way to move forward is to keep your feet—and your technology—firmly on the ground.