Light speed plays a crucial role in the functioning of GPS and satellite technology, impacting both the accuracy and precision of these systems. The speed at which light travels determines how quickly signals can be sent from satellites to receivers on Earth, and this time delay is fundamental in calculating positions. Satellites in orbit continuously transmit signals, and these signals travel at the speed of light. By measuring the time it takes for these signals to reach a GPS receiver, the system can determine the distance between the receiver and the satellite. However, because the signals travel at light speed, even small errors in measuring the time taken for a signal to reach Earth can lead to significant inaccuracies in the calculated position. The effect of light speed is especially noticeable in the context of satellite orbits, which are not stationary. As satellites move rapidly, the time it takes for a signal to reach a GPS receiver may vary slightly depending on the satellite’s location and velocity. This constant change in signal travel time requires the GPS system to account for the movement of both the satellites and the Earth’s rotation. Additionally, the speed of light influences the need for relativistic corrections. According to Einstein’s theory of relativity, time moves slightly differently for satellites orbiting the Earth compared to clocks on the surface. This difference, though minuscule, becomes noticeable when considering the high precision required by GPS systems. To maintain accuracy, clocks on satellites are calibrated to account for these relativistic effects, ensuring that time measurements remain consistent across both satellite and ground-based systems. Without these adjustments, even minor discrepancies could cause errors in location data, potentially leading to navigational issues. Light speed, therefore, is not just a fundamental part of how signals travel but also a factor in the precise coordination of timing and positioning in satellite systems.