Global Positioning Systems are now the standard navigational system worldwide. While it wasn’t always available to the public, it has quickly evolved as the favorite means of navigation by nearly everyone. Today, you can find a GPS system in almost every new car model, on cell phones, and several other devices. Where did the GPS system come from and how does it work?

The GPS system was developed by the United States government for their military. It was once exclusively used by the government. In 1983, after a Korean flight was shot down by Russia for being in the wrong airspace, Ronald Reagan made it available to the masses. He believed that the world needed this technology in order to avoid disasters like the Korean flight. Since then, it has evolved into much more than a military device.

The GPS system is simple one. Using approximately 30 satellites to track microwave signals back down towards the earth, a GPS device can track people to within three feet. Each time the receiver gets a signal from the satellite, several calculations are made immediately. The exact time that the signal was sent is sent along with the signal from the satellite. They also receive a message as to where the satellite is located and in what orbit. These messages travel so fast that they are actually moving at the speed of light. Any time you travel at the speed of light, you’re going to be able to get something from just outside earth to the ground almost instantaneously. This is why you are able to see exactly where your location is, even when you’re moving.

There are many devices that use the GPS system in today’s world. Many cars have them built into the dash. If you don’t have one built into the dash, there are many competing detached navigation systems that you can buy. Devices like Tom-Tom will give you turn by turn directions to wherever you want to go. They even have a little voice that says “turn at the next right” or whatever you need to do. One of the newest devices to get GPS capabilities is the iPhone. Having detailed maps in your cell phone opens up a world of possibilities for everyone.

GPS tracking is a powerful tool. It can lead the lost to safe haven. At some point, everyone will need to know where they are and where they are headed. GPS is an advanced way to make your life easier. In the end, we could all use a little bit of help.