World Geodetic System (WGS84)
The World Geodetic System (WGS84) is a global reference system used for mapping and navigation. It provides a standard framework for determining locations on Earth, using a three-dimensional model that includes the shape of the Earth, its gravitational field, and the position of points on its surface. WGS84 is widely used in technologies like GPS, allowing for accurate positioning and navigation.
Developed by the National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA) in the 1980s, WGS84 has become the foundation for many geospatial applications. It helps ensure consistency in geographic data across different platforms and services, making it essential for global communication and transportation systems.