The Global Positioning System (GPS) is at present the only fully functional Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). More than two dozen GPS satellites are in medium Earth orbit, transmitting signals allowing GPS receivers to determine the receiver's location, speed and direction.
Since the first investigational satellite was launched in 1978, GPS has become an indispensable aid to navigation around the world, and an essential tool for map-making and land surveying. GPS also provides a precise time reference used in many applications including scientific study of earthquakes, and synchronization of telecommunications networks.
Developed by the United States Department of Defense, it is authoritatively named NAVSTAR GPS (NAVigation Satellite Timing And Ranging Global Positioning System). The satellite constellation is managed by the United States Air Force 50th Space Wing. The cost of maintaining the system is around US$750 million per year,[1] including the replacement of aging satellites, and research and development. Despite this fact, GPS is free for civilian use as a public good.
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