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Old March 4th 11, 06:32 AM posted to rec.aviation.ifr
macpacheco
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Posts: 29
Default Galaxy XV / PRN 135 WAAS signal unofficially healthy again ?

Since March 1st, PRN 135 WAAS ranging has changed from NM (Not
Monitored) to NPA (Non precision approach). From what I observed this
wouldn't be possible with MT0 (test mode) being broadcast by said GEO.
This is also typically the first step when a GEO is transitioned from
Test mode into regular operation, with follow-on improvements in UDRE
(ranging accuracy).

As I write this, PRN135 is crossing paths with PRN138, which causes
mutual interference between both GEO broadcasts, forcing their ranging
into DNU, that's another indication MT0 is removed from PRN 135, since
GEOs don't go into DNU if MT0 is being broadcast (they stay in NM
status).

However there is no official news of PRN 135 health information on the
FAA NSTB (WAAS status page) or the FAA WAAS news page.

So with the current position of PRN 135 and its resuming of normal
operations, redundant WAAS coverage to most of Alaska seems to be
restored, and as PRN 135 coasts into its 133 West slot, NW Alaska
coverage will progressively be restored.

Obviously don't use this information for flight planning purposes...
If LPV approaches into NW Alaska are NOTAMed, that's it. In a day or
so, the vpl real time charts will show if PRN 135 signal is actually
good for WAAS corrections.

Marcelo Pacheco