Gladys West was one of the mathematicians whose work helped lay the foundation for modern GPS. Working at the U.S. Naval Weapons Laboratory, she used satellite data and complex mathematical models to create increasingly accurate models of Earth’s shape and gravitational variations. These models became an important part of the geodesy underlying GPS, helping turn satellite signals into precise positions on Earth. West died on January 17, 2026, at 95, leaving behind a legacy that quietly shapes how billions of people navigate today. Want more interesting content like this ? Follow gravitonomy :) #gladyswest #science #physics #space #universe