ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

GPS/INS

GPS or Global Positioning System is a special kind of technology that allows us to locate any object or person on this planet. It consists of a network of satellites that emit signals containing the current time and their own location. A GPS device receives these signals and calculates its distance from different satellites to determine its own location.

INS or Inertial Navigation System, on the other hand, uses sensors to measure changes in velocity and direction of movement. It tracks the movement of an object based on its acceleration and orientation. INS sensors are usually found in planes, spacecraft, and missiles.

Now, imagine you're trying to find your way home from school. You can use GPS to get directions on your phone or ask an adult to help you. Your phone receives signals from different GPS satellites and calculates your location based on the information it receives. If you get lost, your phone can use GPS to guide you back to your home.

Now, imagine you're flying a plane. GPS can help you determine your location, but it can't tell you anything about the speed, altitude, and direction of the aircraft. An INS system can help you track these important parameters using sensors that measure acceleration and orientation. Combined with GPS, the INS can help guide the plane even in situations when GPS is not available.

In summary, GPS helps us navigate on earth by determining our location, while INS helps us navigate in the air, water, or space by tracking our motion based on acceleration and orientation. Together, GPS and INS can provide accurate and reliable navigation for a wide range of applications.