Which system uses satellite information to calculate ground speed?

Prepare for the CPL Navigation Exam with detailed quizzes featuring multiple choice questions and comprehensive explanations. Enhance your understanding and improve your chances of success!

The system that uses satellite information to calculate ground speed is the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). GNSS is comprised of a constellation of satellites that provide accurate positioning and time information to receivers on the ground or in the air. By triangulating signals from multiple satellites, GNSS can determine both the aircraft's position and its movement over the ground, which is essential for calculating ground speed.

This capability is crucial for navigation, especially in aviation, as ground speed is influenced by wind conditions and is different from indicated airspeed, which is a measure of the speed of the aircraft through the air. GNSS provides a highly accurate method for determining ground speed, as it accounts for the actual distance covered over the earth's surface, allowing pilots to make informed decisions based on real-time data.

In contrast, the radar system is primarily used for detecting and tracking objects in the airspace rather than calculating ground speed. The pitot-static system, on the other hand, measures dynamic pressure and helps determine airspeed through the use of a pitot tube and static ports, but it does not account for the movement over the ground. The airspeed indicator measures the speed of the aircraft relative to the surrounding air, not the ground. Therefore, GNSS stands out

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