Does Loran Have a Future

Posted by Alan Sorum Jan 24, 2007

The United States developed the Loran-C radio navigation system as a service intended for its coastal waters. Coverage expanded to cover all of the contiguous states and Alaska. Current receivers are capable of better than 0.25 nautical mile accuracy in covered areas. GPS navigation has overshadowed the older Loran-C system in popular use.

The U.S. Coast Guard maintains and operates Loran transmitting stations. Loran is a reliable navigation system and the Coast Guard has spent millions to update equipment and centralized operations. GPS can be unreliable in some areas covered by Loran and the older system is a viable backup to GPS navigation.

There was a move afoot to eliminate funding for Loran in FY 2007. Congress intervened and extended the funding for an additional year. The Coast Guard is now seeking comments from the public on whether funding should continue for operation of these stations. Comments can be made at the Department of Transportation Docket Management System by February 7, 2007. Click on the Comments/Suggestions button and enter docket number USCG-2006-24685. You don't need to register to post a one time comment.

Boaters should support the continuation of Loran-C. This a modern system that has had substantial resources devoted to its modernization. Loran is an excellent backup system for GPS and receiving equipment is readily available for users. Post a comment in support of Loran before February 7th.