Electronics manufacturer Murata to explore Xona satellite timing service for telecom, data centers

2026-06-03 · Source: SpaceNews · Field: Technology & Digital — Emerging Technologies & Innovation, Cloud Computing & IT Infrastructure, Robotics & Autonomous Systems · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

Japanese electronics supplier Murata Manufacturing has partnered with Xona Space Systems to evaluate the startup's satellite-based Pulsar positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) service. This agreement explores alternatives to the Global Positioning System (GPS) for critical infrastructure like telecommunications, data centers, and financial networks, which require precise timing. Xona's Pulsar system utilizes a constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) to deliver stronger signals, improving reception indoors and in dense urban areas, and reducing errors from reflections. Murata will assess Pulsar's applications, including support for emerging 5G and 6G networks and off-road sectors. Xona aims to deploy 258 satellites within the next few years, with early commercial adoption expected in timing-critical industries.

Key takeaway

For Operations Professionals managing critical infrastructure reliant on precise timing, you should evaluate Xona Space Systems' Pulsar service as a resilient alternative or backup to GPS. Consider its potential to enhance synchronization in 5G/6G networks, data centers, and financial institutions, particularly in environments where traditional satellite signals are prone to degradation or disruption. Proactively exploring LEO-based PNT solutions can mitigate operational risks and ensure robust timing accuracy.

Key insights

Xona's LEO satellite-based Pulsar offers a robust GPS alternative for precise timing in critical infrastructure.

Principles

• LEO satellites provide stronger, more resilient PNT signals.
• Precise timing is critical for diverse infrastructure beyond navigation.
• Early commercial PNT adoption requires fewer satellites than full navigation.

Method

Xona's Pulsar service utilizes a low Earth orbit satellite constellation to transmit stronger, faster-moving signals, improving positioning and timing accuracy, especially indoors and in urban areas, by reducing signal errors.

In practice

• Integrate Pulsar into telecom and data center timing devices.
• Explore Pulsar for 5G/6G network synchronization.
• Apply LEO PNT in off-road machinery.

Topics

• Satellite Navigation
• PNT Services
• GPS Alternatives
• Low Earth Orbit
• Telecommunications
• Data Centers

Best for: Investor, CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, IT Professional, Operations Professional, Director of AI/ML

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by SpaceNews.