How Satellites Power GPS and Everyday Navigation

How Satellites Power GPS and Everyday Navigation
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Sep 27, 2025

Global Positioning System, or GPS, has become an important part of our lives. It helps in travel, delivery, environmental monitoring, and many other things. But all this is possible only because of the satellites in space. These satellites send signals that help GPS work.

In this article, we will discuss how satellite powers GPS and our everyday navigation. Let's have a look!

What is GPS?

GPS, which stands for Global Positioning System, is a location tracking system that helps people know their exact location. It works anywhere in the world. GPS depends on satellites for its operation. It needs at least four satellites to provide an accurate location.

These satellites send signals to your device, and then the device uses the signals to find out your location.

GPS is also very fast and reliable. It can find directions in a few seconds. Also, many apps, such as WhatsApp, use GPS to help users share their live location with friends and family.

How Satellites Power GPS?

The Global Positioning System depends on satellites to transmit signals. There are more than 30 GPS satellites in space. They move around the Earth in fixed orbits. These satellites send signals to the Earth. The GPS devices receive these signals.

It needs at least four signals to find your location. The device then checks the time it takes for each signal to reach it, and then it calculates the distance using that time. So, the working of GPS is not possible without satellites.

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Everyday Uses of GPS

Now, let's discuss some everyday uses of the Global Positioning System!

Driving and Commuting

One of the most common uses of GPS is in cars. It helps drivers find different locations and the best route. It also helps them avoid traffic and saves time and fuel.

Delivery Services

Delivery companies also use GPS. It helps drivers find the fastest route to deliver packages and shows the exact location of the customer.

Emergency Services

GPS is also important for emergency services. When someone needs help, GPS shows the exact location. This helps emergency teams reach faster.

Logistics and Fleet Management

Companies also use GPS to track their vehicles. It shows the location of each truck and its speed. It also helps plan better routes and saves fuel.