What Is GPS Mapping
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An explaination of how GPS navigation works.GPS stands for Global Positioning System, and is a functional navigation system which operates via satellites. Numerous satellites orbit the Earth which send radio signals to electronic GPS devices on the surface. The satellite presents information on the receiver which shows the user their exact position, and includes latitude and longitude information at any time and any place on Earth. GPS first became widely available in 1993, and since that time has become an important factor in global communications. For all modern vehicles it is a critical tool, whether its a plane, boat, or train. GPS is also heavily used in land surveying and map design. Many scientists which study earthquakes use GPS extensively. The system was developed by the US Department of Defense, and it costs just under half a billion dollars a year to operate the system. Despite this, GPS is freely available to civilians as a public service. In the year 2000, a new application was added to GPS to approve its accuracy called (WAAS), which stands for Wide Area Augmentation System. The applications for GPS are enormous, and more people are using the system for everyday activities. The military uses GPS to improve the timing and precision of their cruise missiles. GPS also allows the military to more effectively communicate with their troops and carry out missions and campaigns quickly. GPS satellites also carry devices capable of detecting nuclear explosions anywhere in the world. GPS systems have become standard in newer models of automobiles. Hikers and people camping use GPS to avoid getting lost, or as a means of communication if they get injured. PDAs or other small electronic devices may also come equipped with small GPS receivers. When plans are made to construct buildings, roads, or other structures, land surveyors use GPS to track and detect land, boundaries, or other barriers. GPS also can help those which are blind, or have vision which is impaired. Many people now use GPS for a hobby called Geocaching, which involves using hand held equipment to find specific locations. The applications of GPS are endless. It has made the world a smaller place where people from remote parts of the globe are able to communicate quickly and efficiently, for a low cost. As we move farther into the future, more devices will be equipped with low cost GPS devices. The system has many benefits, and has greatly improved the work of pilots and other professionals. |
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