Thread: Loran c
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Old 01-09-2009
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The USCG has twice asked for public comments before shutting down the LoranC system for good. And each time, they got enough response to quickly decide not to shut it down. Mainly along the lines you've already heard here: It may not have the accuracy of GPS, but it IS a sufficient, reliable, redundant system with a large enough user base and low enough costs that large numbers of users want to see it continued. "The prudent navigator does not rely on any one means of..." has been printed on too many charts, when the public recites it back and says they don't want just one system, GPS or otherwise--it makes a convincing argument. Of course Loran has quakes--but isn't that what GPS is for.

And when GPS quakes, or has to be shut down, it is awfully convenient to have a second fully independent system to fall back on. I don't think anyone is buying new Lorans for the boats--but there are SO many units already out there.
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