Gps systems in todays society Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Gps systems in todays society - Research Paper Example 4). The space segment is made up of at least 24 GPS satellites that orbit the earth twice a day in a specific pattern. The control segment is the segment responsible for constantly monitoring from the ground, the satellite’s movements, signals and orbital configuration. The user segment consists of the GPS receiver which collects and processes signals from the GPS satellites which then determines and computes location, velocity and time. Three aspects were emphasized during the development of the GPS3 (Zogg 9). First, it must assist its users in determining position, speed, and time, whether an object is in motion or at rest. Second, irrespective of the weather, it must have a continuous global, 3-dimensional positioning capability with a high degree of accuracy. And lastly, even ordinary people must be able to use it. This last aspect is the reason why GPS is now widely used not only in military operations but also in our everyday lives. GPS has a plethora of uses in our society today. Its applications can be found in various industries. Foremost among its uses is the tracking of people, commodities and the different modes of transportation. GPS receivers are used for determining position, speed and time. It can be used everywhere except in areas where receiving a signal is impossible such as innermost parts of buildings, caves, underwater or other subterranean locations. In the military which was originally the intended purpose of the GPS, aircrafts, ships, submarines and tanks use it for basic navigation, target designation, close air support and weapon technology4 (Garmin Ltd. 6). In aviation, GPS is very useful because pilots use it for navigation and determining airport approaches. In space, GPS helps track and control satellites in orbit. Space shuttles also use the same technology. At sea, the most typical use of GPS is for navigation by recreational