Which term refers to a satellite navigation system that provides autonomous geospatial positioning with global coverage?

• A. Global Positioning System (GPS)
• B. Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)
• C. Goniometer
• D. Graveyard spiral

Answer: (B)

Global Navigation Satellite System is the umbrella term for satellite navigation networks that provide autonomous geospatial positioning with worldwide coverage. A GNSS receiver determines your exact location by receiving signals from multiple satellites and calculating your position in latitude, longitude, and altitude. The constellation is designed to be visible from anywhere on Earth, so you can get positioning and timing information globally, without relying on ground-based signals.

GPS is one example of a GNSS, but the term refers to the entire family of systems that provide this global capability, including GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou. The other options don’t describe a satellite navigation system: a goniometer measures angles, not positioning; a graveyard spiral is a flight-path hazard caused by loss of control, not a navigation system.