ABSTRACT
Goals of satellite geodesy include using Earth-orbiting satellites to determine the size and shape of the Earth, to obtain a greater understanding of the Earth’s gravity field, and to define the position or movement of points on the Earth or in near space. The first two goals are primarily scientific in nature, but the third goal is more applications oriented and of interest to many more people. The utility of position fostered by the pervasive use of Global Positioning System (GPS) technology in various applications means that many spatial data users are interested in learning more about fundamental concepts of satellite positioning. Many principles and systems are involved in meeting those goals, and, because there are so many details, this chapter should be considered as an overview.
