GPS Definition | GIS Dictionary

GPS

[GPS] Acronym for Global Positioning System. A global geopositioning satellite constellation used for positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) relative to objects on the earth's surface. Orbiting satellites transmit signals that allow a GPS receiver anywhere on earth to calculate its own location through trilateration. Developed and operated by the U.S. government for the purpose of logistics, mapping, surveying, and other applications that require precise positioning; it is part of the international GNSS constellations spread between several orbital planes.