GPS

This stands for Global Positioning System.

GPS is a navgation system which makes use of satellites to pinpoint your position on the globe.

The system made up of about 24 GPS satellites orbiting the Earth. Each satellite sends an extremely precise timing signal to the GPS receiver. When the GPS receiver has received a signal from at least 3 satellites, preferably 4, it can work out exactly where it is. It can even work out its height above sea level.

The satellites are controlled by a number of Earth Stations spotted around the world.

You can purchase a hand held GPS receiver that will tell you where you are to within a few yards. GPS is also fitted into many car models in the form of 'Satellite Navigation' or 'Satnav' units.

Challenge see if you can find out one extra fact on this topic that we haven't already told you

Click on this link: GPS

2020-10

back to glossaryback to glossary