Global Positioning System (Gps) Research Paper

TheGlobal Positioning SystemWith the proliferation of satellite-based defense systems and their continuing presence in the media it makes us more awargon of our national defense. The United States is large, economically strong and a or sotimes tumultuous presence in the global community. Although we may scent secure because of our superior technology and defense capabilities, our size and position in world aff carrys can make us a tar defecate for some countries. We can no longer be concerned with just our borders and now what comes from the skies and the sea is more of a threat than ever before.The United States government had to bring out a way to counter these possible attacks and the Global Positioning System (GPS) was conceived. The Global Positioning System was initiated in 1973 by the Department of Defense (DOD). It was genuine by the the DOD because at a cost of over twelve billion dollars the government had the m whiztary resources to achieve these idealistic goals. Sinc e that time it has large from one satellite employ strictly by the military to twenty-six satellites that can be use by civilians also.This satellite system is used to determine the despatch and position of an object anywhere in the world within one hundred meters to mere millimeters depending on the size and quality of user equipment. (GPS JOINT architectural plan OFFICE. ICD-GPS-200GPS INTERFACE CONTROL DOCUMENT. ) The original purpose of GPS was to maintain a strategic military advantage over our enemies. Toward the end of the arms race the targeting of ballistic missiles became so exact they could land directly on an enemy missile silo and destroy any missiles inside of it. The ability to take out your enemies missiles from great distances had a major(ip) effect on the balance of power.To maintain the balance of power the United States government had to develop a way to locate surfacing submarines in a matter of minutes anywhere in the world. With the use of satellites in or bit the Global Positioning System was created. GPS uses twenty-six satellites and ground tracking stations round the world to compute distances using time. This is done by finding the difference between the time a signal is sent and the time it is received. The satellites have nuclear clocks so the time is extremely veracious. The receivers position is determined by using three satellites, this is called triangulation. (kAPLAN,eLLIOTT.UNDERSTANDING GPSPRINCPLES AND APPLICATIONS) GPS is made up of three segments put, go for and user. The space segment includes the satellites and the rockets that launch them from Cape Canaveral. The satellites ar powered by solar cells and continuously point theirsolar panelstoward the sun and their antennae toward earth. The control segment includes the master control station in Colorado and monitor stations around the world. This segment makes sure orbits and clocks operate within acceptable limits. The user segment includes the equipment used by the military and civilians who receive GPS signals. Kaplan, Elliott. UNDERSTANDING GPSPRINCIPLES AND APPLICATIONS) The military applications of GPS are used in fighters, bombers, helicopters, submarines and soldiers gear. Wartime defense is now more accurate and dependable than ever. While unbosom the most important aspect of this technology, GPS is not used strictly for navigation anymore. Other uses include but are not limited to target designation, air support, soldier rendezvous and smart weapons. Smart bombs use GPS to receive location information so they can guide themselves to a preset target.This technology is a great asset in battle as it basically casts a net over a battlefield and can locate tanks, vehicles or thus far soldiers who may be in immediate danger. In the everyday world, GPS has also made life easier and safer. Hikers and hunters can carry hand held receivers in case they should get lost in the wilderness. On-board navi destinations through voice-activated user equipment. Drivers can also make cellular calls using these GPS computers should something happen to them in transit. Other aspects of this technology are used in farming.Maps can be created of the fields during harvest and used the next season to plant and fertilize areas that need more attention. This increases crop production date reducing the use and expense of fertilizers, pesticides and fuel which also helps our environment. This exhibit is called Precision Farming. Another very important use of GPS is the avoidance of in-flight collisions. Airlines are in the process of equipping their airplanes with GPS receivers. This will enable each aircraft to detect other planes in the vicinity and make sure they dont cross paths in the air.This is much more accurate and reliable system than is currently available and is sure to make the people flying in these planes more comfortable and secure. The Global Positioning System has grown into a resource that goes far beyond the ini tial design goals. These days scientists, farmers, soldiers, pilots and delivery drivers are using GPS in ways that make their jobs safer and more productive. The benefits of GPS are not limited to job related aspects alone. The future of this technology is limitless and will change and develop rapidly as new and varied applications are introduced. Works CitedBibliography Kaplan, Elliott. Understanding GPS Principles and Applications. Boston Artech house Publishers, 1996 Thompson, Steven D. An Introduction to GPS, (Everymans Guide To Satellite sailing. ARINC Research Corporation, 1994 The Untold Story of CALCM The Secret Weapon Used in the disjuncture War. GPS World January 1995 page 16 GPS Joint Program Office. ICD-GPS-200GPS Interface Control Document. ARINC Research Corporation. Available On-line from United States Coast Guard Navigation Center. Dana, Peter H. GPS Users Overview. Available on-line at www. utexas. edu/depts/grg/gcraft/notes/gps/gps. h tml