24 GPS satellites carry atomic clocks

AI Thread Summary
The GPS system uses 24 satellites equipped with atomic clocks to achieve precise location measurements. When determining a position, three satellites create spheres that intersect at two possible points. The correct point is identified as one that lies on the Earth's surface, while the other does not. This method enhances the accuracy of GPS technology. Understanding this process is crucial for grasping how GPS navigation works effectively.
PPonte
Quoted from http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/gps.html#c1"

Adding a third as in the GPS system locates it at one of two discrete points where the three spheres intersect. The correct one is easily chosen to get a precise location. The 24 GPS satellites carry atomic clocks to give them the accuracy necessary for position measurement.

How do they know which of the points is the correct one? (see sentence in blod)

Thank you!:approve:
 
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I took a guess that one of the points doesn't lie on surface the Earth, and it seems that I was partially correct - see http://www.trimble.com/gps/how.html" .
 
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