How does GPS work?

GPS, which stands for Global Positioning System, is a navigation system that uses a network of satellites to determine the location of a receiver on the Earth's surface. It was developed by the United States Department of Defense and became operational in 1995.

The GPS system works by measuring the distance between a receiver on Earth and four or more GPS satellites in orbit. The receiver uses the time it takes for a signal to travel from each satellite to the receiver to determine the distance to each satellite. By combining these distance measurements, the GPS receiver can calculate its precise location on Earth using a process called trilateration.

GPS satellites are equipped with atomic clocks and continuously transmit their precise time and location information to Earth. The GPS receiver uses this information to calculate its distance from each satellite and determine its location on Earth. The GPS system can also provide accurate time and speed information.

GPS technology is used in a wide variety of applications, including navigation for vehicles, airplanes, and ships, surveying, mapping, geolocation services, and more. As the technology continues to evolve, new applications are constantly being developed.