Which theoretical minimum number of measurements from satellites does a GPS receiver need in order to provide an exact three-dimensional position?
Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation
Correct Answer: Option B — Four
GPS receivers require four satellites to solve for four unknowns: latitude, longitude, altitude, and time offset. While three satellites can provide a 2D position if altitude is assumed, a precise 3D position necessitates a fourth satellite to resolve the timing discrepancy between the receiver clock and satellite atomic clocks.
100% Free & Open Access — No daily limits, paywalls, or gated answers on BrightMariner.