Global Positioning System or GPS is a satellite navigation system. More than 24 satellites are orbiting the earth and broadcast timing signals that allows the GPS receiver to determine the latitude, longitude and altitude of a particular object. GPS Satellite Tracking can be used to navigate vehicles and ships in any weather at any time on any part of the planet.

GPS Satellite Tracking is an indispensable tool that is used for map-making, land surveying and navigation. It provides a precise time reference that is vitally important for scientific research as well as telecommunications. These amazing devices can judge the position, speed and altitude with a high level of accuracy.

GPS tracking was developed by United States Department of Defense and was officially named as NAVSTAR GPS, Navigational Signal Timing and Ranging Global Positioning System. The first experimental satellite of the GPS Satellite Tracking system was launched in 1978. In 2005, the next generations of GPS satellites were added to the satellite fleet. These satellites have an additional capability that includes L2C, the civilian GPS signal that increases reliability as well as accuracy.

GPS Satellite Tracking Functioning:

There are over 24 satellites in orbit approximately 12,600 miles above the earth. At any given point of time there are at least 4 satellites above the horizon. The basic components of a satellite are a computer, radios and atomic clocks. The function of the satellite is to keep precise time with the help of their atomic clocks.

The GPS receivers on the ground use the process of trilateration to calculate the position by receiving time signals from 3 or 4 satellites. The GPS receiver’s display screen shows the position on a map. If the receiver has the advantage of the signal from the fourth satellite it can determine the geographical position and the altitude of the concerned object. If you are moving, the receiver can calculate the direction of the movement along with the speed of the object. Some of the GPS satellite tracking systems can store the data in GIS or Geographic Information Systems along with map making.

By: Steven Lancey

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