How Do GPS Systems Work?

Running head: HOW DO GPS SYSTEMS WORK?
How Do GPS Systems Work?
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How Do GPS Systems Work? 1
Objective:-
Global Positioning System (GPS) is a technological tool that simplify life by empowering
oneself to find his/her destination without getting lost.

How Do GPS Systems Work? 2
Introduction:-
GPS is a space based satellite navigation system that determines one’s exact position near
or on the surface of earth, anytime, anywhere, in any weather condition irrespective of its
location. The system is of prime importance to military, civil and commercial users around the
world (du Plessis & Van Niekerk, 2014). This paper initially describes the GPS, followed by the
discussion about the functionality of the GPS. Then, it highlights about the significance and role
of GPS in our daily life. Further, it discusses about selective availability. Finally, it draws
conclusion about the effectiveness of GPS inhuman life.
Global Positioning System (GPS):-
GPS is referred to as a satellite navigation system, which comprises of three elements -
the user segment (receivers), the control segment (ground stations)and the space segment
(satellites) to find and locate an object’s ground position through positioning, navigation, and
timing services ("GPS.gov: GPS Overview", 2018). In earlier days, US government developed it
for military navigation and nowadays anyone having a GPS enabled-device can receive the
satellites broadcast signals. Both the control as well as space segments are developed, operated
and maintained by the Air Force of United States. The receivers or user segment is referred as
GPS user equipment, which determines user position and time by using the transmitted
information based on the signals received from the GPS satellites. The control segment tracks
and maintain the GPS satellites, uploads modified navigational data along with adjustment of
satellite clocks through global monitor as well as control systems. The space segment contains a
group of stars that provides the current GPS satellite position and time through one-way signal
transmission. The satellites are arranged and divided into six orbital planes. Each plane is spaced
equally and the space of each plane four slots. Each slot is by baseline satellites. This