LORAN survey

GPS is presumed to have become the primary navigation aid employed in the commercial shipping industry today. However, a report issued by the Volpe National Transportation Center in August 2001 indicates GPS is susceptible to both intentional and unintentional interference. In order to mitigate the vulnerability of GPS, the U.S. Department of Transportation has determined "back-up" technologies and procedures must be identified that can sustain navigation, positioning and timing capabilities for the nation's critical infrastructure and industries in the event of a loss of GPS. The Ship Operations Cooperative Program (SOCP), sponsored by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD), is conducting a LORAN Survey to assist the Department of Transportation in deciding on the future of this electronic aid to navigation. Ship owners and operators and active mariners are invited to respond to this short (14 question) Internet-based survey. (8/1/05).