How many satellites comprise the Global Positioning System (GPS)?

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is designed to provide accurate positioning, navigation, and timing services worldwide. The system typically consists of a minimum of 24 satellites in orbit, which are distributed across six orbital planes to ensure that at least four satellites are visible from any point on Earth at any given time. This arrangement allows for precise triangulation of a receiver's location based on signals transmitted from the satellites.

While the number of operational satellites can exceed 24 at times—up to 30 or more may be in operation if additional satellites are launched for maintenance and replacement—the minimum required for full global coverage is 24. This capability is crucial for providing reliable GPS service for aviation, maritime, terrestrial navigation, and various other applications that rely on geolocation data.