MATHEMATICAL FOUNDATIONS OF GPS AND RTK POSITIONING

Drones equipped with Global Navigation Satellite Systems have transformed modern geospatial mapping, precision agriculture, and surveying. Standard Global Positioning System technology provides meter-level accuracy, but its precision is often insufficient for cartographic applications. Real-Time Kinematic techniques enhance GPS accuracy by applying carrier-phase corrections from reference stations, achieving centimeter-level positioning. This paper examines the integration of drones with GPS and RTK, reviews mathematical formulas underlying location determination, and highlights applications in geospatial cartography.