GPS, or global positioning systems, seem to be everywhere. From space, all our GPS devices make us seem like tiny dots peppering the planet. That might give you the feeling of being small and lost but, as those of us with a GPS know, you feel quite connected when you’re in an unfamiliar place and your GPS can guide you safely to your destination.
Let’s learn a little bit more about the trusty GPS systems and how they work.
Prior to the advent of GPS, determining navigation and positioning were difficult tasks. More primitive forms of the GPS include sun dials, atlases, road maps, and compasses.
The GPS works through the support of a satellite-based navigational system that involves a network of satellites that have been strategically distributed in the earth’s orbit. There are 24 satellites placed in orbit by the US Department of Defense in the 1970’s. At the time. they served the US military exclusively. In the 1980’s, GPS became available for civilian use.
Each day, the GPS satellites circle the earth twice, following an extremely precise orbit and transmit informational signals to earth.
The GPS satellites have to be placed very high above the earth’s surface (approximately 11,000 miles). This prevents the satellites from encountering any land-based obstacles, like weather or our planet’s natural landscape. These satellites are able to provide accurate positioning no matter where they are in their orbit.
GPS has many remarkable capabilities, including locating missing persons and determining the height of the tallest mountains on earth, and of course simplifying travel, increasing safety, and increasing communication abilities.
When you find yourself lost on the road or looking for the nearest coffee shop, just imagine a whole network of satellites, miles and miles above earth, ready to help. It’s hard to believe that it’s all available at the touch of a button.
