Scientists look to black holes to know exactly where we are in the Universe. But phones and wifi are blocking the view

ESA / Hubble / L. Calçada (ESO), CC BY

The scientists who precisely measure the position of Earth are in a bit of trouble. Their measurements are essential for the satellites we use for navigation, communication and Earth observation every day.

But you might be surprised to learn that making these measurements – using the science of geodesy – depends on tracking the locations of black holes in distant galaxies.