The North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83) is a geodetic datum used for mapping and navigation in North America. It provides a standard reference framework for geographic coordinates, allowing for accurate positioning and data sharing across various applications. NAD83 is based on a fixed reference frame that aligns closely with the Earth's center of mass. Developed as an improvement over the earlier NAD27, NAD83 incorporates modern satellite technology and geodetic measurements. This datum is widely used in geographic information systems (GIS), surveying, and cartography, ensuring consistency and precision in spatial data across the continent.