GPS

GPS or Global Positioning Systems is made up of a unique set of 24 satellites that orbit the earth in strategic positions, allowing triangulation to locate an exact position on earth.  Each of the satellites orbits the earth twice a day at a distance of approximately 12,000 miles above us, traveling at approximately 7,000 miles per hour.  Additionally, each of the satellites is solar powered but have backup batteries in case of a solar eclipse.

Originally designed for military use and the Department of Defense almost 30 years ago the application was made available to the public.  Unlike so many applications tried in the past, GPS works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in any kind of weather.  Clouds or storms have no effect on the functionality of Global Positioning Systems.

A signal is transmitted from a personal GPS device to several satellites and back to the GPS device.  Through triangulation techniques the electronic map display on the individual system can tell exactly where the device is constantly.

Depending on the number of satellites locked in to any device, the device can determine exact longitude and latitude with the input from three satellites, and if four are locked in the device can also report altitude.

This is a very simplified explanation of GPS, but in truth most of us do not care how the system works, but only that it does.

Since the introduction of GPS for civilian use, the devices have become more accurate and far more affordable.  Hence, most new vehicles today have some form of GPS installed.  Additionally, GPS is now available for boats, individual use and as a means of tracking pets.