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Global Navigation Satellite Systems

Navigation satellites are essential for transportation, defense, and daily life. The National Academies study system integrity, accuracy, and coordination to enhance global positioning capabilities.

What's happening

Can we measure water underground from space?

Based on Science

Yes. Using satellites to detect changes in Earth’s gravitational pull can tell us about the movement of water on the planet, including water that is underground. Changes in those measurements over time let us know where groundwater is increasing or decreasing.

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Geodetic Infrastructure Needs Enhancements, Continued Maintenance to Answer High-Priority Scientific Questions About Climate Change, Earthquakes, Ecosystems Over Next Decade Jan 27, 2020 News Release

Featured Publications

National Security Space Defense and Protection: Public Report

Consensus Study Report

2016

Wake Turbulence: An Obstacle to Increased Air Traffic Capacity

Consensus Study Report

2008

Featured work

Review of FCC Order 20-48 Authorizing Operation of a Terrestrial Radio Network Near the GPS Frequency Bands

Consensus/Advisory Activity

National Security Space Defense and Protection

Consensus/Advisory Activity

Upcoming events

Units

Aeronautics, Space, and Astronomy Program Area

Oversight Unit

Eagle Nebula (M16 - Messier 16) SHO Palette

Earth Systems and Resources Program Area

Oversight Unit

Moss sporangia with morning dew (close-up)

Center for Advancing Science and Technology (CAST)

Oversight Unit

Climate Crossroads

Oversight Unit

Space Weather Roundtable

Roundtable/Forum

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