GPS has many applications in the modern world, from helping drivers pick the fastest route to their destination to aiding hunters in tracking their prey. Virtually all smartphones and personal electronic devices come equipped with a GPS feature, making it an essential part of our daily lives. But have you ever wondered how GPS works? How was it invented? What are its applications in other industries? If these questions crossed your mind in the past, then this one’s for you. Here is everything you need to know about how GPS works, step by step.
Table of Contents
What is GPS
GPS is short for “global positioning system.” It is the brainchild of the U.S. government and is still owned and operated by them today. GPS is a utility that gives users accurate information on the position, navigation, and timing (PNT).
GPS consists of three segments:
Space Segment
This segment has a 24-satellite constellation in space. Additionally, they transmit one-way signals to give accurate readings on the current GPS satellite position and time.
Space satellites orbiting the earth
Control Segment
The control segment is a global network of monitoring and control stations. They maintain the health and status of satellites in orbit. Furthermore, they adjust the satellite clocks and make periodic command maneuvers. Therefore, control segments track GPS satellites and upload the updated navigational data.
User Segment
The user segment consists of the GPS receiver gear. Moreover, it receives signals from satellites in space, using this transmitted information to calculate your three-dimensional location and time. User segments encompass everything from smartphones to cars and airplanes.
How Does GPS Work Step-by-Step?
The U.S. Space Force maintains GPS satellites in space, which broadcast radio signals to the control segment on Earth. More Space Force personnel oversee the control segment. Furthermore, they ensure that satellites orbit in the correct locations and have accurate atomic clocks. Antennas pick up these signals, processing them in a GPS receiver to compute your location. GPS signals are thus broadcast on three frequencies.
First is L1 for civilian frequencies, L3 and L4 for regional satellite-based augmentation systems, and governmental frequencies. Some satellites broadcast their signals on M-code, designed exclusively for the U.S. military.
How Accurate Is GPS?
GPS accuracy comes down to the power of its processor. High-precision GPS receivers will always outperform smartphones, for example. Monitoring and control stations identify and model errors, optimizing the accuracy of data transmitted from satellites to receivers.
Common causes of errors include radio frequency interference due to orbital drift, clock errors, and atmospheric delays. These factors affect the accuracy of PNT data. Fortunately, technologies like GNSS/GPS correction services help mitigate these errors.
For the most part, GPS is highly accurate, which is why it’s so widely used in different sectors.
Creative abstract GPS navigation
Factors That Can Affect Gps Accuracy
Position of the Satellites
Positions of the satellite at the time data get recorded may affect the accuracy of information. Moreover, it is common when satellites are in tight groups or a line instead of at wide angles.
Geography of Surrounding
Physical features like buildings, valleys, and trees may obstruct radio signals. In turn, it leads to delays that cause room for error.
Weather Conditions
Atmospheric changes affect GPS signals by compromising the speed of radio signals.
Applications of GPS
GPS features across various industries. Here are a few.
Navigation
Through apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Maps.me, GPS shows you the best possible route to get you from point A to point B. It also calculates the travel time and alerts you of traffic updates in real-time. Things such as bad weather, obstructions, or hazards along the way get updated.
Isometric mobile GPS navigator
Mining Industry
GPS surveys areas before operations commence, identifying areas to avoid and tracking potential mineral deposits. Another major application of GPS in mining is the guidance of drills during operations. Therefore, they increase the process’s productivity, safety, and accuracy.
Trucking and Shipping
GPS is an essential part of the transportation and logistics business. It does more than help with navigation. Furthermore, GPS transformed the industry by introducing business-effectual tools for business owners and customers.
Managers can track vehicle fleets, stay on top of costs, and plan assignments. Users can also monitor data like driver safety and performance.
Global logistics transportation
Emergency Services, Military, and Law Enforcement
The armed forces and emergency services rely on GPS every day. Police use it to collect data on locations without being physically present at all times. Besides, accident and emergency departments use GPS to find people in distress and locate the nearest healthcare facility.
The military uses GPS for surveillance, search and rescue operations, remotely piloting UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), and guiding munitions on precision strikes.
FAQs
- Who Owns GPS?
The U.S. government owns GPS. Through the U.S. Space Force, they maintain GPS satellites and command centers worldwide. They do this for both military and civilian applications.
- Can My Phone Work Without GPS?
Yes, your phone will still work without GPS. Apps on your phone can track your location using your IP address. Moreover, location can also get tracked using WiFi, Bluetooth, and your mobile data signal.
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Finger pressing the red search button IP address
- Are There Alternatives to GPS?
GPS is the most popular and best-known system, but it is not the only one. Alternatives include NavIC, built and owned by India, GLONASS, made by Russia; and BeiDou, created by China. There’s also the European Union’s Galileo system.
Conclusion:
GPS is a testament to the marvels of modern technology. It’s revolutionized many industries and made lives easier for millions worldwide. From hikers and hunters to farmers, miners, and civil engineers, GPS has touched the lives of many for the better in ways we don’t often think of or fully appreciate.
Now you understand how GPS works and how it influences many aspects of our daily existence.