SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drone-preflight-gps-lock

Before launch, how much GPS reception should the drone have?

It should acquire the manufacturer-specified minimum number of satellites.

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  1. At least one satellite
  2. The manufacturer's minimum ✔
  3. Whatever it finds after takeoff

Why: The required satellite count depends on the aircraft. Preflight should confirm communication and the minimum GPS acquisition specified by its manufacturer.

Huh, didn't know that: The FAA also recommends checking the control link, avionics indications, antennas, and power supply.

The dad joke
Why did the drone count satellites? It wanted to know its place in the world.
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References

Answer: The manufacturer's minimum. The required satellite count depends on the aircraft. Preflight should confirm communication and the minimum GPS acquisition specified by its manufacturer.

  1. FAA Advisory Circular 107-2A www.faa.gov/documentlibrary/media/advisory_circular/ac_107-2a.pdf
    the small UAS has acquired GPS location from the minimum number of satellites specified by the manufacturer
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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