How does an inertial navigation system determine an aircraft's position?

How does an inertial navigation system determine an aircraft's position?

• A. By calculating distance using a compass
• B. By measuring acceleration against time
• C. By triangulating GPS signals
• D. By assessing ground speed from radar

Answer: (B)

An inertial navigation system (INS) determines an aircraft's position primarily by measuring acceleration against time. The system incorporates accelerometers that detect changes in velocity and orientation as the aircraft moves. By continuously integrating these acceleration measurements over time, the system calculates the current position relative to a known starting point. This process allows the INS to provide real-time data on the aircraft's position, velocity, and attitude without relying on external references. This method of navigation is particularly advantageous in situations where GPS signals may be unstable or unavailable, as it provides a self-contained solution based on the principles of physics and inertia. The accuracy of an inertial navigation system typically decreases over time due to errors accumulating in the accelerometer data, which is one of its limitations. The other methods listed utilize external information or rely on different technological principles, which do not align with the mechanics of how an INS operates.

An inertial navigation system (INS) determines an aircraft's position primarily by measuring acceleration against time. The system incorporates accelerometers that detect changes in velocity and orientation as the aircraft moves. By continuously integrating these acceleration measurements over time, the system calculates the current position relative to a known starting point. This process allows the INS to provide real-time data on the aircraft's position, velocity, and attitude without relying on external references.

This method of navigation is particularly advantageous in situations where GPS signals may be unstable or unavailable, as it provides a self-contained solution based on the principles of physics and inertia. The accuracy of an inertial navigation system typically decreases over time due to errors accumulating in the accelerometer data, which is one of its limitations.

The other methods listed utilize external information or rely on different technological principles, which do not align with the mechanics of how an INS operates.