What is the GPS satellite orbital altitude?

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Multiple Choice

What is the GPS satellite orbital altitude?

GPS satellites operate in medium Earth orbit at about 20,200 kilometers above the Earth, which is roughly 12,550 miles. This altitude provides a good balance between global coverage and a manageable signal geometry, giving each receiver a reliable view of multiple satellites over time and a stable timing reference for accurate position fixes. The other altitudes shown correspond to regions not used by the GPS constellation: too low for global coverage, or too high and less practical for maintaining strong, timely signals. So the established GPS orbital altitude is about 12,550 miles.

GPS satellites operate in medium Earth orbit at about 20,200 kilometers above the Earth, which is roughly 12,550 miles. This altitude provides a good balance between global coverage and a manageable signal geometry, giving each receiver a reliable view of multiple satellites over time and a stable timing reference for accurate position fixes. The other altitudes shown correspond to regions not used by the GPS constellation: too low for global coverage, or too high and less practical for maintaining strong, timely signals. So the established GPS orbital altitude is about 12,550 miles.

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