Evolution of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)
This article traces the development of global navigation satellite systems, from their military origins to widespread civilian use. It discusses major systems like GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, and IRNSS, explaining how satellites transmit signals for precise positioning. The text highlights the technology's applications in navigation, fleet tracking, and everyday devices, emphasizing its significance in modern life.
Evolution of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)
The phrase "necessity is the mother of invention" perfectly describes the origins of GPS technology. Originally designed for military use, the development of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) was driven by defense needs. Following the 1957 launch of Sputnik by Russia, researchers at Johns Hopkins devised a method to determine satellite positions using the Doppler Effect. This research laid the groundwork for what would become GNSS, initially restricted to military applications. Over time, civilian access expanded, with improved accuracy and global coverage achieved by 2000. Today, multiple countries operate independent GNSS programs, including Russia's GLONASS, Europe's Galileo, China's BeiDou, and India's IRNSS, each providing precise positioning worldwide. These systems rely on satellites transmitting unique signals in precise orbits, enabling users to accurately determine locations via trilateration. Common applications include vehicle tracking, navigation, and GPS-enabled devices used daily by millions worldwide.
