GPS (Global Positioning System)

In the context of aerospace engineering, the Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system that provides geolocation and time information to a GPS receiver anywhere on or near the Earth. The system operates independently of any telephonic or internet reception and does not require the user to transmit any data. Developed by the United States Department of Defense, GPS is officially called NAVSTAR GPS. The satellite system consists of a constellation of at least 24 satellites in medium Earth orbit. It works in all weather conditions, provided there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites. The GPS system has applications in navigation, surveying, geophysical exploration, mapping and geodesy, and a host of other uses. In aerospace, it is used for navigation and attitude determination in aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites, providing critical positioning capabilities to military, civil, and commercial users around the world.
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