What does GPS stand for in the context of navigation?

The term GPS stands for Global Positioning System. This designation reflects the system's ability to provide precise location data globally, utilizing a network of satellites orbiting the Earth. The Global Positioning System is employed in various applications ranging from navigation for vehicles and aircraft to location services in smartphones and outdoor activities like hiking and geocaching.

The emphasis on "global" signifies that this system operates anywhere on the planet, irrespective of the user's location. This distinction is crucial because it encompasses the wide-ranging utility and functionality of GPS technology, which is pivotal for accurate navigation and mapping.