Trilateration

Trilateration is a geometric method used to determine the exact position of an object or a person by measuring its distance from at least three known reference points (beacons, antennas, or satellites).

Not to be confused with triangulation (which measures angles), trilateration relies solely on the calculation of distances:

1. Each reference point emits a signal and calculates the distance between itself and the object (based on the wave's propagation time).
2. A virtual circle is drawn around each point to represent this distance.
3. The unique intersection of these three circles gives the exact location of the object in two-dimensional space (a fourth point is needed for a 3D position).