What is GPS?
GPS (Global Positioning System) is a technology that helps us find locations anywhere on Earth using satellites.
It allows devices like smartphones, cars, and airplanes to determine their exact location using signals from satellites in space.
How Does GPS Work?
GPS uses at least 4 satellites to find a device’s location. Here’s how:
✅ Satellites send signals to the GPS receiver (your phone, car, smartwatch, etc.).
✅ The GPS receiver measures the time it takes for signals to arrive.
✅ Using this information, the GPS calculates your exact position on Earth (latitude, longitude, and altitude).
How Does GPS Work?
✅ Navigation – Google Maps, car navigation, airplane routes
✅ Tracking – Find lost phones, track vehicles
✅ Emergency Services – Help police, ambulances, and firefighters
✅ Military and Defense – Used for precision targeting in the army
✅ Sports and Fitness – Track running and cycling distances
✅ Surveying and Construction – Used for mapping and land surveys
Who Developed GPS?
GPS was developed by the U.S. Department of Defense in 1973 for military use. In 2000, it was made available for public use worldwide!
Advantages of GPS- Works anywhere on Earth
- Accurate location tracking (Up to a few meters)
- Available 24/7 (Doesn’t need the internet, only satellite signals)
- Helps in emergencies
- Weak signal indoors or underground (Needs open sky)
- Battery consumption (Using GPS drains phone battery fast)
- Can be affected by weather or interference
Summary
✅ GPS (Global Positioning System) is a satellite-based navigation system that helps locate any place on Earth.
✅ Tracking – Find lost phones, track vehicles
✅ Uses at least 4 satellites to calculate the exact position.
✅ Used in navigation, tracking, emergency services, and more!
✅ Sports and Fitness – Track running and cycling distances
✅ Works worldwide but has alternatives like GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou.