GPS

 how a GPS works : 

The 24 GPS satellites are in orbit. They move permanently around the Earth, with 6 different trajectories. On the ground, a small box called a GPS receiver communicates with at least 3 satellites. This device measures the distance separating it from the satellites (trilateration). This information allows it to calculate its coordinates, in other words its position. The communication between the satellites and the receivers is done through signals emitted by the satellites. The receiver is able to calculate the speed of propagation of the waves emitted to deduce the distance between them. It contains a chip or a chipset, a key component to perform these calculations.

the three elements of GPS

GPS is made up of three different components, called segments, that work together to provide location information.

 

The three segments of GPS are:

• Space (Satellites) — The satellites circling the Earth, transmitting signals to users on geographical position and time of day.
• Ground control — The Control Segment is made up of Earth-based monitor stations, master control stations and ground antenna. Control activities include tracking and operating the satellites in space and monitoring transmissions. There are monitoring stations on almost every continent in the world, including North and South America, Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia.
• User equipment — GPS receivers and transmitters including items like watches, smartphones and telematic devices.

 the uses of GPS

GPS is a powerful and dependable tool for businesses and organizations in many different industries. Surveyors, scientists, pilots, boat captains, first responders, and workers in mining and agriculture, are just some of the people who use GPS on a daily basis for work. They use GPS information for preparing accurate surveys and maps, taking precise time measurements, tracking position or location, and for navigation. GPS works at all times and in almost all weather conditions.

 

There are five main uses of GPS:

1. Location — Determining a position.
2. Navigation — Getting from one location to another.
3. Tracking — Monitoring object or personal movement.
4. Mapping — Creating maps of the world.
5. Timing — Making it possible to take precise time measurements.