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GPS Declassified: From Smart Bombs to Smartphones

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By Dr. J. David Powell

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a revolutionary technology that has changed the way we live. From smart bombs to smartphones, GPS is now used in a wide range of applications, from navigation and surveying to tracking and mapping. But how does GPS work? And how did it come to be so widely used?

GPS Declassified: From Smart Bombs to Smartphones

by Richard D. Easton

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2276 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	324 pages

History of GPS

The roots of GPS can be traced back to the early days of the space race. In 1957, the Soviet Union launched Sputnik, the first artificial satellite to orbit the Earth. This event sparked a wave of concern in the United States, and led to the creation of NASA and the development of the American space program.

One of the key goals of the American space program was to develop a system that could be used to track and navigate satellites. In 1964, the U.S. Navy launched the first Transit satellite, which used a radio beacon to transmit its position and time. This system was used to track submarines and other naval vessels, and it provided the foundation for the development of GPS.

In the 1970s, the U.S. Air Force began developing a new satellite navigation system called NAVSTAR. NAVSTAR was designed to be more accurate and reliable than Transit, and it was intended to be used by both military and civilian users.

The first NAVSTAR satellite was launched in 1978, and the system became fully operational in 1994. GPS has since become the world's most widely used navigation system, and it is used in a wide range of applications, from navigation and surveying to tracking and mapping.

How GPS Works

GPS works by using a constellation of 31 satellites that orbit the Earth at an altitude of about 20,200 kilometers (12,550 miles). Each satellite transmits a signal that contains its position and time. GPS receivers on the ground can use these signals to calculate their own position and time.

To calculate its position, a GPS receiver needs to receive signals from at least four satellites. The receiver uses the time of arrival of these signals to calculate the distance to each satellite. The receiver then uses this information to calculate its own position.

GPS receivers can also use the signals from the satellites to calculate their time. The satellites transmit a very precise time signal, and GPS receivers can use this signal to synchronize their own clocks.

Applications of GPS

GPS is now used in a wide range of applications, including:

Navigation
Surveying
Tracking
Mapping
Timing
Telecommunications
Agriculture
Transportation
Construction
Engineering
Sports
Recreation
Science
Medicine
Education
Government
Business
Personal use

GPS is a versatile technology that can be used in a wide range of applications. It is a powerful tool that has changed the way we live.

GPS Declassified: From Smart Bombs to Smartphones is the definitive guide to the Global Positioning System. Written by GPS expert Dr. J. David Powell, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the history, technology, and applications of GPS. Whether you are a student, a professional, or just someone who is interested in learning more about GPS, this book is a valuable resource.

Free Download your copy of GPS Declassified today!

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GPS Declassified: From Smart Bombs to Smartphones

by Richard D. Easton

4.4 out of 5