Orbiting Satellites: The Rise of GNSS and Its Worldwide Influence
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From the article "Orbiting Satellites: The Rise of GNSS and Its Worldwide Influence" by David Daly:?
David Daly, during his early days as a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps, underwent extensive training in the forests of Virginia, mastering the art of land navigation using only a map, compass, and protractor. However, after this intensive experience, he predominantly turned to the Global Positioning System (GPS) and other modern navigation technologies for guidance. In today's world, from smartphones to strategic military operations, David observed how GPS and its associated systems have become invaluable tools, often utilized by people who don't fully grasp their intricate operations.
GNSS, the Global Navigation Satellite System, is a broad term encompassing satellite constellations like GPS, the European Union's Galileo, and China's BeiDou. They offer positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) capabilities worldwide. As of 2023, the GPS constellation comprises 31 operational satellites. These satellites, spread across the Earth's orbit, use trilateration. A receiver, such as in a mobile device, measures the time it takes for a signal to travel from multiple satellites, thereby calculating a precise location, often within a 7-meter accuracy. For military applications, even greater precision is available.
The transformative impact of GNSS includes precision targeting in warfare, enhancing real-time situational awareness in military operations, aiding navigation in challenging terrains, and significantly improving search & rescue and disaster response operations. Whether it's the military planning an intricate operation or first responders saving lives post-disaster, GNSS technologies, especially GPS, provide unmatched speed and accuracy in determining locations. As we continue to integrate these systems into various facets of our lives, the benefits of these global assets become even more pronounced.