Global position system (GPS)

Definitions

• A satellite-based radio positioning, navigation, and time-transfer system.
• The Global Positioning System is a series (or “constellation”) of satellites circling the Earth, each broadcasting a unique signal. These signals, usually three or more, are detected by electronic units, and, thru triangulation and time delay sensings, provide an extremely accurate location readout of the GPS receiver. Many balloon pilots carry a small GPS unit on board the balloon to determine location, ground track and ground speed.
• Navigation system that uses satellite rather than ground-based transmitters for location information.
• A satellite based radio positioning, navigation, and time transfer system used for as a reference for navigation and measures ground speed.
• A satellitebased radio positioning, navigation, and timetransfer system.

References

• Airplane Flying Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2021
• Balloon Flying Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2024
• Instrument Flying Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2014
• Powered Parachute Flying Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2007
• Weight-Shift Control Aircraft Flying Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2008