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Introduction to GPS

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a space-based radio-navigation system consisting of a constellation of satellites and a network of ground stations used for monitoring and control. A minimum of 24 GPS satellites orbit the Earth at an altitude of approximately 11,000 miles, providing users with means to accurately determine their position, velocity, and time while anywhere in the world irrespective of weather conditions.

GPS is operated and maintained by the Department of Defense (DoD). The Interagency GPS Executive Board (IGEB) manages GPS, while the U.S. Coast Guard acts as the civil interface to the public for GPS matters. The Federal Aviation Administration continues to investigate and apply GPS as it pertains to aviation in the United States. In other parts of the world, this same function is performed by similar regulatory bodies, often in collaboration with the FAA.

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GPS/WAAS Information Copyright © 2005 Federal Aviation Administration
For more information, visit gps.faa.gov. Updated by FreeFlight Systems. 2009.

 


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