Dual frequency GNSS - L1 and L5 - New Civil Signals

The government is in the process of fielding three new signals designed for civilian use: L2C, L5, and L1C. The legacy civil signal, called L1 C/A or C/A at L1, will continue broadcasting, for a total of four civil GPS signals. Users must upgrade their equipment to benefit from the new signals.

The new civil signals are phasing in incrementally as the Air Force launches new GPS satellites to replace older ones. Most of the new signals will be of limited use until they are broadcast from 18 to 24 satellites.

From here: GPS.gov: New Civil Signals

I see this: Apple Watch Ultra - Technical Specifications: * L1 and L5 GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou

and this: Geometer International Dual-frequency GNSS receiver GM SMART - Compare with Similar Products on Geo-matching.com - Geo-matching

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Interesting article, KC! It looks like the L2C is at 24 satellites, while L5 is at 17 and L1C is 7 (all out of 31 at present). I note that they are increasing the ERP for better reception in places like urban buildups and inside buildings.
Our grandkids will know which pocket their receiver is in… :slight_smile:

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