A minimum of 24 GPS satellites orbit the Earth at an altitude of approximately 11,000 miles providing users with accurate information on position, velocity, and time anywhere in the world and in all weather conditions. (Image courtesy of
FAA.)
The development of the Global Positioning System (GPS) started in the 1960s, and the system became operational in 1992. The system has seen many diverse applications develop in the last few years with the accuracy of positioning ranging from 100 meters (the civilian restricted accuracy requirement) to 1 millimeter (without the need for a security clearance!) In this course we will apply many of basic principles of science and mathematics learnt at MIT to explore the applications and principles of GPS. We also use GPS and other equipment in the class (and outside on Campus) to demonstrate the uses of this system.
Technical Requirements
Any number of development tools can be used to compile and run the .f files found on this course site. Please refer to the course materials for any specific instructions or recommendations.
MATLAB® software is required to run the .m files found on this course site.