The key difference between GPS and GNSS in mining is that GPS refers to a single satellite system, while GNSS includes all global satellite constellations.
GPS is the U.S. navigation system with about 24 satellites, whereas GNSS combines GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, and others.
Because GNSS receivers use signals from multiple systems, they offer better accuracy, reliability, and coverage especially in challenging mining environments or areas with limited GPS visibility.
This makes GNSS more effective for equipment guidance, surveying, and site monitoring, while GPS alone provides less flexibility and may experience reduced performance in some locations(GNSS vs GPS: Precision & Coverage Explained, n.d.).
What is the fundamental difference between GPS and GNSS in mining, and why is relying on GNSS crucial for centimeter-level accuracy? Share your insights!
Reference:
GNSS vs GPS: Precision & Coverage Explained. (n.d.). Retrieved November 16, 2025, from https://www.taoglas.com/blogs/gnss-vs-gps-choosing-the-right-technology-for-precision-and-coverage-needs/
