Geometric Dilution of Precision (GDOP)

« Back to Glossary Index

Geometric Dilution of Precision (GDOP) is a measure in marine navigation that quantifies the effect of satellite geometry on the accuracy of position determination. It is a factor used to assess the quality of the satellite configuration in relation to the receiver’s position. A low GDOP value indicates good satellite geometry, resulting in more accurate position fixes, while a high GDOP value indicates poor geometry and reduced accuracy. GDOP is influenced by the relative positions of the satellites in view, as well as the elevation angles and signal strengths of the satellites being used for navigation.