How the Heck Does GPS Work?

7 hours ago

GPS navigation works by converting time into distance via satellite signals traveling at the speed of light.
Trilateration with at least three satellites determines a 3D position, but a fourth satellite corrects for clock errors in the device.
Relativistic effects from speed and gravity require satellite clock adjustments to maintain accuracy.
Modern phones use multiple global constellations and optimize satellite geometry to enhance precision and reduce errors.
Challenges like signal multipath in urban areas and satellite geometry affect GPS accuracy, but advanced techniques mitigate them.

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