Northern Lights 'interfere with satnav devices'
Date: 25 June 2008
Drivers, including those providing a courier service, who are being led astray by their satnav systems can attribute some of the blame to the Northern Lights, it has emerged.
According to a report in the Daily Telegraph, scientists have found that the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, interfere with the signal from global positioning satellites, which are used by satnav systems to ascertain their locations.
Research conducted at the University of Bath asserts that the intense electrical activity caused by the natural occurrence decreases the accuracy of satnav systems.
Anywhere that the aurora is visible, it will cause disruption," lead researcher professor Catherine Mitchell told the publication.
"Although most people in the UK can't see the aurora when it is happening, because of cloud or ambient light, it can still affect the GPS signal."
It was previously reported that satnav systems make road users feel at ease behind the wheel.
Some 72 per cent of respondents to a Virginia Tech Transportation Institute survey said they feel less stressed when using such devices as they can concentrate more on the road.
Do you have space on your vehicle? Courier Exchange has loads waiting for you now!
User Comments
No Comments