Which device is best described as a satellite-based navigational system using a network of satellites?

The best description of a satellite-based navigational system using a network of satellites is GPS, which stands for Global Positioning System. GPS utilizes a constellation of at least 24 satellites orbiting the Earth to provide accurate location and time information to users on the ground. Each satellite transmits signals that allow GPS receivers to determine their precise location by triangulating their position based on the signals received from multiple satellites.

This system is crucial for various applications, including outdoor navigation, surveying, and forestry management. Unlike GIS (Geographic Information Systems), which is a data management and analysis system that includes spatial information, GPS specifically focuses on providing location data based on satellite signals.

The other options—LAN (Local Area Network) and RDS (Radio Data System)—serve completely different purposes. LAN pertains to network communication within a limited area, such as a home or office, and RDS is a standard for sending digital information over FM radio broadcasts. Therefore, GPS is the correct choice in this context.