I GPS relativity error - really?

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The discussion centers on the claim that GPS systems would experience a significant positioning error of 12 kilometers per day without corrections for relativistic effects. However, it is argued that this assertion is misleading because GPS relies on multiple satellites that experience similar gravitational time dilation, minimizing potential errors. The time on satellites is regularly updated from ground signals, making the need for extensive corrections less critical. The consensus is that while relativity adjustments are made, the system can still function adequately without them for short periods. Ultimately, the accuracy of GPS is maintained through a combination of satellite clock precision and ground-based corrections.
  • #31
We're two pages in and no closer to a resolution, so we're closing it.

There are a number of good technical papers on the detailed operation of the GPS system; if someone wants to recommend a few we can post links into this thread.
 
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