A satellite-based radionavigation system owned by the United States government and operated by the United States Space Force. It provides geolocation and time information to a receiver anywhere on or near the Earth where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more satellites. These systems are invaluable for mapping, surveying, navigation, and a wide range of applications relevant to the study of human populations and their spatial distribution. As an example, it can be utilized to analyze migration patterns or to study the impact of urban sprawl on agricultural land using remotely sensed data precisely geolocated.
The benefits stem from its ability to provide accurate and consistent location data globally. This aids researchers in creating detailed maps, tracking changes in land use, and understanding the spatial relationships between different human activities. Historically, the technology evolved from military applications, but its civilian use has expanded dramatically, revolutionizing fields such as transportation, agriculture, and disaster response. The precision offered enables more nuanced geographical analyses than were previously possible, leading to a deeper understanding of human-environment interactions.
