1 minExplainer
How GPS works: satellites, clocks and distance
8 min original · Original explainer · Technology
A GPS receiver does not send a signal to find you. It listens to timing signals from several satellites and calculates its distance from each one. This explainer covers the role of precise clocks, why at least four satellites are needed, and what can reduce accuracy.
Summary of a 8 min original
Key takeaways
- Distance comes from how long a signal takes to arrive
- Four satellites are needed to fix position and receiver time
- Atmosphere, buildings, and reflections can reduce accuracy
Chapters
Sources
Original from: Original explainer
Photo: NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio - Science and Technology Corporation/Kel Elkins, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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