By Inside Unmanned Systems

Locata Positioning recently announced that NASA plans to install LocataNet at its Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. The network will serve as the core positioning technology for safety-critical unmanned aerial system research.

LocataNet will provide NASA Langley with the high-precision non-GPS based positioning, navigation and timing needed to perform rigorous, repeatable scientific evaluation of new UAS technology and safety concepts, according to a news release.

“Locata is proud and delighted to have received an order for NASA’s first LocataNet. Globally significant installations like this prove Locata’s new technology is delivering unprecedented levels of performance to many important new applications” Locata CEO Nunzio Gambale said, according to the release. “As our technology roll-out begins to gain pace, the exceptional value Locata brings to next-gen mobile apps has attracted interest from players all over the world. In fact, our list of relationships is now looking like a roster of the world’s crème-de-la-crème. I honestly can’t think of a better or more prestigious name than NASA to add to our growing partner list.”

Locata’s cm-accurate positioning will help NASA develop and improve flight-critical technology systems that support air transportation safety, efficiency and performance, according to the release.

The NASA LocataNet is slated to be installed and commissioned by the end of the year. Locata will supply the LocataLite Transmitters and Locata Receivers required for the installation at Langley, according to the release. Aviation-quality Locata antennas, developed by Cooper Antennas, also will be installed. Locata engineers will support the physical installation, on-going training and future technical support.

For more information visit locata.com