There are three distinct parts that make up the Global Positioning System (GPS): the satellite orbiting above the earth, the ground station comprised of a receiver and antenna and the data center that monitors and controls the global GPS stations as well as retrieve and analyze data from the receivers of these stations. This three-part system is distinctly shown in actual application in the Southern California Integrated GPS Network or SCIGN. It is a network of continuously recording GPS receivers throughout Southern California to monitor the strain accumulation in its crust.
The highly accurate measurements made by the GPS system allows scientists to record millimeter-scale slip in faults that cannot be ordinarily measured. Experts believe that enough information about an area’s seismicity would lead to better understanding of the mechanics behind earthquakes and better assessment of hazards and damage estimates related to such occurrences.