Xona Sees First RNSS Satellite Launch in Q4 2024

Space startup Xona Space Systems anticipates the first launch of its planned 258-satellite radionavigation satellite service (RNSS) (see 2307120002) in Q4 2024, company representatives told an aide to Commissioner Brendan Carr, according to an FCC Space Bureau filing this week. Xona said the initial phase of 34 satellites should be in orbit by mid 2026, with its constellation fully populated by mid 2028. Xona said its system won't cause harmful interference to other U.S.-authorized RNSS operators. It said while there are no prescribed interference protection criteria for RNSS-to-RNSS interference, coordination among operators would determine necessary safeguards.