Private Pilot Private Exam

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How many satellites make up the Global Positioning System (GPS)?

The correct answer is: 24

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is designed to provide accurate positioning information anywhere on Earth. The operational constellation of GPS typically consists of 24 satellites. This configuration allows for sufficient coverage and redundancy, ensuring that at least four satellites are visible from nearly any point on the Earth’s surface at any time. This number of satellites enables GPS receivers to triangulate their position accurately through signals received from multiple satellites. While there are additional satellites in orbit (which may bring the total count above 30 at times), the core operational requirement for reliable navigation is fulfilled with 24 satellites. This is why 24 is the correct answer when discussing the minimum number of satellites that make up the GPS system for effective global coverage.