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geocentric coordinate system

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  1. [coordinate systems] A three-dimensional, earth-centered reference system in which locations are identified by their x-, y-, and z-values. The x-axis is in the equatorial plane and intersects the prime meridian (usually Greenwich). The y-axis is also in the equatorial plane; it lies at right angles to the x-axis and intersects the 90-degree meridian. The z-axis coincides with the polar axis and is positive toward the north pole. The origin is located at the center of the sphere or spheroid. Media/geocentric-coord-system.gif