What is the Difference?

GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System):

  • Definition: GNSS is a general term encompassing all satellite-based navigation systems. It includes multiple satellite constellations operated by different countries.

  • Satellite Systems Included:

    • GPS (Global Positioning System) - Operated by the United States

    • GLONASS - Operated by Russia

    • Galileo - Operated by the European Union

    • BeiDou - Operated by China

    • QZSS (Quasi-Zenith Satellite System) - Operated by Japan

    • NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) - Operated by India

    • SBAS (Satellite-Based Augmentation Systems) like WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, GAGAN, and SouthPAN, which enhance the accuracy and reliability of GNSS signals.

GPS (Global Positioning System):

  • Definition: GPS is a specific satellite navigation system that is part of the broader GNSS family. It is operated and maintained by the United States government.

  • Functionality: GPS uses a network of satellites to provide geolocation and time information to GPS receivers, which is essential for navigation and mapping.

Key Differences:

  • Scope: GNSS is a collective term for all satellite navigation systems, while GPS refers specifically to the United States' system.

  • Satellites: GNSS includes satellites from multiple systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, etc.), whereas GPS relies solely on its own network of satellites.

  • Coverage and Accuracy: Using multiple GNSS systems can improve coverage and accuracy, especially in challenging environments like urban canyons or areas with limited satellite visibility. GPS provides reliable global coverage but may have limitations in certain conditions.

GPS

GNSS