Which technology is primarily used for positioning and navigation on Earth?

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is the technology primarily utilized for positioning and navigation on Earth. GPS operates by using a constellation of satellites that transmit signals to GPS receivers. By triangulating the signals from multiple satellites, a GPS receiver can accurately determine its geographical location in three dimensions: latitude, longitude, and altitude.

This capability makes GPS essential for various applications, such as navigation for vehicles and aviation, mapping, surveying, and outdoor activities like hiking and boating. The precision and reliability of GPS technology have made it the standard for geolocation and navigation in many fields.

In contrast, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are used for managing and analyzing spatial data but are not directly responsible for real-time positioning or navigation. Remote sensing involves collecting data about Earth's surface from satellites or aerial sensors, while cartography pertains to the art and science of map-making. While all these technologies are related to geography and can complement GPS in different ways, they do not serve the primary function of providing precise location and navigation as effectively as GPS does.