Full Form of DGPS

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DGPSstands for

Differential Global Positioning System

What is DGPS?

Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) is an enhancement to the standard Global Positioning System (GPS) that improves location accuracy from about 5–10 metres to sub-metre or even centimetre level. It works by using a network of fixed reference stations that measure the difference between their known fixed position and the position reported by GPS satellites. These correction signals are broadcast to nearby DGPS receivers, which then apply the adjustments to their own GPS measurements, eliminating common errors such as atmospheric delays and satellite clock drift. In India, DGPS is widely used by the Survey of India for geodetic surveys, by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for precise mapping, and by the Ministry of Shipping for coastal navigation and harbour management. The Indian Coast Guard operates a chain of DGPS stations along the coastline to aid maritime safety. The technology is also employed in agriculture for precision farming, in construction for machine control, and in disaster management for rapid damage assessment. For competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, and state engineering services, understanding DGPS is relevant in the context of modern surveying techniques, remote sensing, and India’s advancements in space technology. DGPS remains a critical tool for applications demanding high positional accuracy, especially in remote or challenging terrain.

DGPS का फुल फॉर्म

डिफरेंशियल ग्लोबल पोजिशनिंग सिस्टम

Example

The Survey of India uses DGPS correction signals to achieve centimetre-level accuracy while mapping new urban developments in Bengaluru.

DGPS — frequently asked questions

What is the full form of DGPS?
DGPS stands for Differential Global Positioning System.
How is DGPS different from GPS?
DGPS corrects errors in GPS signals using fixed reference stations, providing much higher accuracy (sub-metre) compared to standard GPS (5–10 metres).
Where is DGPS used in India?
DGPS is used by the Survey of India for geodetic surveys, by the Indian Coast Guard for maritime navigation, and by ISRO for precise mapping and GAGAN satellite-based augmentation.
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