The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a United States space-based global navigation satellite system. It provides reliable positioning, navigation, and timing services to worldwide users on a continuous basis in all weather, day and night, anywhere on or near the Earth. It is through this that we are able to make use of satellite tracking. GPS has become a mainstay of transportation systems around the world, providing navigation for aviation, ground, and maritime operations. Disaster relief and emergency services depend upon GPS for location and timing capabilities in their life-saving missions. Everyday activities such as banking, mobile phone operations, and even the control of power grids, are made easier and work more efficiently, safely, economically, and accurately using the free and open GPS signals. By using satellite tracking fleet managers are able to pin point each and every vehicle in their fleet with complete accuracy at any point of time, day or night.

GPS receiver calculates its position by precisely timing the signals sent by the GPS satellites high above the Earth. Each satellite continually transmits messages, which include

• the time the message was sent
• precise orbital information
• the general system health and rough orbits of all GPS satellites

The receiver measures the transit time of each message and computes the distance to each satellite. Geometric trilateration is used to combine these distances with the satellites' locations to obtain the position of the receiver. This position is then displayed, perhaps with a moving map display or latitude and longitude; elevation information may be included. Many GPS units also show derived information such as direction and speed, calculated from position changes. Satellite tracking has proved to be extremely popular and useful on Earth. Originally intended for military use, satellite tracking has now been adopted by companies such as Skygistics

For state-of-the-art satellite tracking solutions contact Skygistics today at +27 12 682 1700 – we have the perfect solution, regardless of your needs.