US GPS statement Neil Degrasse FB In January 2016, during the decommissioning of GPS satellite SVN 23, a software error in the ground control system caused 13 other satellites to transmit timing data that was incorrect by 13.7 microseconds. While this may seem like a tiny mistake, such an error had major consequences. Systems that rely on precise GPS timing including telecom networks, digital broadcasting, financial exchanges, and power grids were affected. Thousands of timing faults and alarms were triggered globally, disrupting normal operations in many countries for several hours. Though the error did not affect GPS location services for most users, it exposed just how dependent modern infrastructure is on accurate time signals from space. The incident served as a wake-up call for organizations and governments, emphasizing the need for backup systems, better monitoring, and rigorous testing when updating critical technology. It remains one of the most significant GPS timing gli...