The systems being tested are complex and costly. But the data from U.S. global positioning satellites is deliberately degraded to prevent its use by unfriendly nations for military targeting. Trains also lose satellite signals when they cross steel bridges and enter tunnels. So far, the tests are proving successful, but the railroads are having problems integrating the data sources. If accurate and reliable train location systems can be developed, the railroads stand to gain significant safety and economic benefits.
Human error causes about half the accidents involving trains.
The economic benefits of improved train location data would be substantial. The article was written by Journal staff reporter William Carley. Publishing Pressures Rise. So Do Errors. According to an article in the June 29th issue of The New York Times , the quality of editing fiction and non-fiction has significantly deteriorated during the past decade.