What is the purpose of SBAS in GPS systems?

The purpose of SBAS (Satellite-Based Augmentation System) in GPS systems is primarily to enhance the accuracy and reliability of GPS positioning. SBAS achieves this through the provision of differential corrections, which account for various errors that can affect the positional data received from GPS satellites. These errors can include atmospheric conditions, satellite orbit inaccuracies, and clock discrepancies. By delivering real-time corrections to the GPS signals, SBAS enables users to obtain high-precision location data, which is essential in applications requiring high levels of accuracy, such as aviation, surveying, and precision agriculture.

Other options don't provide accurate descriptions of SBAS functions: providing satellite imagery enhancements refers more to remote sensing technologies; tracking satellite movements relates to satellite air traffic management rather than the SBAS purpose; and transmitting signals across long distances does not capture the specific function of augmenting GPS signal accuracy.