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Physical Coordinate Systems and GPS

In: The Physical and Mathematical Foundations of the Theory of Relativity

Author

Listed:
  • Antonio Romano

    (Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Dipartimento di Matematica e Applicazioni “Renato Caccioppoli”)

  • Mario Mango Furnari

    (Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Cibernetica)

Abstract

During the last centuries mechanics developed the following three levels of coordinate systems—or more generally–reference systems turned out to be particularly meaningful: Space-fixed or inertial systems, in which the positions of stars are fixed or almost fixed and in which the motion of artificial satellites can be formulated according to the Newtonian laws of mechanics. Earth-fixed systems, in which all terrestrial points can be expressed conveniently as well as vehicles in motion on the earth’s surface. Local horizon systems, fixed to observatories or instruments and often oriented horizontally with one axis pointing towards north. These three levels of reference systems are complemented, when needed, by some specialized ones such as orbit or spacecraft systems or regional terrestrial systems. Equally important, also time keeping requires some generally adopted reference for maintenance, comparison and transfer of time.

Suggested Citation

  • Antonio Romano & Mario Mango Furnari, 2026. "Physical Coordinate Systems and GPS," Springer Books, in: The Physical and Mathematical Foundations of the Theory of Relativity, edition 0, chapter 19, pages 567-589, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-032-23179-6_19
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-23179-6_19
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