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Pakistan’s national space agency SUPARCO (Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission) has achieved a major milestone in navigation technology with the successful launch of its Pak-SBAS satellite-based augmentation system (SBAS) device and service.
The Pak-SBAS navigation service was rigorously tested in the extreme desert conditions of Cholistan during Cholistan Desert Rally 2026. The Cholistan desert experinces high speeds, unpredictable routes, and the absence of visual landmarks that demand exceptional positioning accuracy and signal reliability for autos and motorcycles.
Throughout the rally, Pak-SBAS demonstrated remarkable performance by delivering highly precise location data, stable signal continuity, and integrated route tracking.
By applying SBAS corrections, the system significantly reduced positioning errors compared to conventional GNSS technologies, offering rally drivers and navigation teams a new level of confidence essential for competitive desert racing.
According to a SUPARCO spokesperson, the Pak-SBAS technology holds vast potential beyond motorsports. It is expected to enhance disaster response operations through accurate tracking of rescue teams and affected areas, improve transport efficiency via real-time vehicle positioning, and strengthen aviation safety with more reliable navigation support.
The system also will benefit the surveying and mapping sectors by minimizing positional inaccuracies and reducing project costs.
