The Wayback Machine - http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com:80/GPS
Wednesday, 08 August 2012
Dictionary
GPS
Global Positioning System
How GPS works
The Truth About GPS: How it works
Darth Vader recording for TomTom GPS - behind the scenes
Magellan GPS Navigation Premium Car Kit Pre-Release In-Car / On-Road Review (iPhone or iPod Touch)
Nokia N95 - GPS Demo
How GPS Receivers Work
Personalized GPS
Case of the Technical Knockout - How Does GPS Work
Tomorrow (GPS)
Poor Man's GPS

Gps

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GPS/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 15 Sep 2009
  • Duration: 1:28
  • Updated: 20 Jul 2012
Author: sheepfilms
I was under the impression that GPS was supposed to make your life easier...
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/GPS/video details
Global Positioning System/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 31 Dec 2006
  • Duration: 3:35
  • Updated: 19 Jul 2012
Author: galaxyexplorers
This NASA produced short film (3:30) describes the Global Positioning System. It is a great summary and can be used to augment the Galaxy Explorers Mission Plan on GPS.
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/Global Positioning System/video details
How GPS works/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 14 Nov 2008
  • Duration: 5:11
  • Updated: 14 Jul 2012
Author: JWilko75
The GPS network and how gravity affects time and space. The military operations needed behind the system to keep it in check.
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/How GPS works/video details
The Truth About GPS: How it works/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 03 Feb 2010
  • Duration: 3:11
  • Updated: 15 Jul 2012
Author: airforcespacecommand
Col. David Buckman, Air Force Space Command, talks about GPS, how it works, and modernization.
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/The Truth About GPS: How it works/video details
Darth Vader recording for TomTom GPS - behind the scenes/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 04 May 2010
  • Duration: 2:27
  • Updated: 20 Jul 2012
Author: TomTomOfficial
Lord Vader commands you to turn to the Dark Side. Will you be able to resist as he guides you to your destination? Get the voice at www.tomtom.com
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/Darth Vader recording for TomTom GPS - behind the scenes/video details
Magellan GPS Navigation Premium Car Kit Pre-Release In-Car / On-Road Review (iPhone or iPod Touch)/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 27 Dec 2009
  • Duration: 6:30
  • Updated: 16 Jul 2012
Author: ShaneXman
Check out this pre-release in-car / on-road review of the Magellan Premium Car Kit for iPhone 3G/3GS or iPod Touch 2G's. This kit is scheduled to be released on January 7th, 2010, so here's your chance to get a closer look at what to expect when this thing hits the shelves next year. A VERY cool kit with lots of innovative features, and awesome form factor. Enjoy, and thanks for looking! From Magellan's website: Transform your iPhone®(3G or 3GS) or iPod touch®(2nd generation) into a complete in-car GPS navigation solution with the Magellan® Premium Car Kit. • Turns your iPod touch (2nd Generation) into a GPS Navigator Built-in GPS receiver allows navigation on an iPod touch (2nd Generation). • Adjustable mount accommodates most skins and hard cases Accommodates most cases or skins for maximum flexibility when inserting into the cradle. Simply pop your iPhone or iPod touch in the mount and you are ready to go! • Rotates for both portrait and landscape use Quickly secure the cradle to your windshield or dashboard and easily adjust for portrait or landscape viewing. • Enhanced signal with built in GPS receiver Build in GPS Receiver Enhances Performance. A powerful, sensitive, built-in GPS receiver for fast and accurate directions. • In-car charging The cradle automatically powers and charges your iPhone or iPod touch when connected. No need to worry about running out of battery power. • Noise cancelling speakerphone For crystal clear calls. • Bluetooth hands-free calling <b>...</b>
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/Magellan GPS Navigation Premium Car Kit Pre-Release In-Car / On-Road Review (iPhone or iPod Touch)/video details
Nokia N95 - GPS Demo/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 26 Sep 2006
  • Duration: 2:05
  • Updated: 29 Jun 2012
Author: experiencemobility
Nokia has again set a standard for phones. This GPS demo is very cool....
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/Nokia N95 - GPS Demo/video details
How GPS Receivers Work/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 09 Mar 2007
  • Duration: 1:17
  • Updated: 19 Jun 2012
Author: HowStuffWorks
A GPS receiver uses signals from satellites to pinpoint its exact location on Earth, any time, anywhere. It can tell you where you are, where you've been, where you're going and what time you'll get there. Find out how the Global Positioning System lets you find your way around the globe.
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/How GPS Receivers Work/video details
Personalized GPS/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 20 Jun 2008
  • Duration: 2:23
  • Updated: 03 Jul 2012
Author: TastelessChoice
Personalized GPS to fit your lifestyle. Note: We at Tasteless Choice apologize to anyone who we have not yet offended. We're trying our best to get to all of you.
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/Personalized GPS/video details
Case of the Technical Knockout - How Does GPS Work/video details
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  • Published: 20 Aug 2007
  • Duration: 4:26
  • Updated: 16 Jul 2012
Author: NASASciFiles
Fourth segment of NASA Sci Files The Case of the Technical Knockout explaining how GPS receivers work with satellites to determine an exact location. This segment explains the concept of trilateration in two and three dimensions.
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/Case of the Technical Knockout - How Does GPS Work/video details
Tomorrow (GPS)/video details
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  • Published: 19 Feb 2010
  • Duration: 1:10
  • Updated: 15 Jul 2012
Author: AbeForsythe
Overall winner of the Mofilm 2010 Pepsi Short Film Competition. www.mofilm.com Credits: Henry Nixon - Man Emma Lung - Woman Damon Herriman - GPS Abe Forsythe - Writer/Director/Editor/DOP Matt Reeder - Producer
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/Tomorrow (GPS)/video details
Poor Man's GPS/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 20 Sep 2007
  • Duration: 3:09
  • Updated: 30 Jun 2012
Author: nalts
Spencer becomes a suitable replacement to my broken GPS. Until... Thanks to GPS Maniac for supporting this video. www.gpsmaniac.com Music by King Fu Bootstrap Studio, Hollywood Executive Producer- Dana Fisher Producer- Lester Craft A production of www.willvideoforfood.com for GPSManiac.com
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/Poor Man's GPS/video details
Is Garmin GPS King? - 2008 GPS Navigation Comparison Video/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 14 Jun 2008
  • Duration: 4:45
  • Updated: 13 Jun 2012
Author: InsideLineVideo
www.edmunds.com You've got a busy summer ahead. Before setting out on that road trip out West or back East, you'll have to find time to download some travel music. (We recommend new releases from Common, My Morning Jacket and Weezer.) After that, we've got another assignment for you that promises to make your summer trip easier and may enhance your listening habits, too: Get a portable navigation system. Of course, we wouldn't dream of leaving you out in the cold on such an important decision, so we're updating last year's portable navigation system roundup with four new or newly improved portable systems. Since our last portable navigation review, a few of the units we sampled have changed significantly, plus there are two all-new units that seem promising on paper — the Dash Express and Becker Travel Assistant.
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/Is Garmin GPS King? - 2008 GPS Navigation Comparison Video/video details
Samsung Galaxy S2 vs HTC Desire S - GPS Test/video details
  • Order:
  • Published: 10 May 2011
  • Duration: 3:29
  • Updated: 19 Jul 2012
Author: samjpullen
Here is a quick demo using an application called GPS Test on both the Galaxy S2 and Desire S follow me :) www.twitter.com/samjpullen
http://web.archive.org./web/20120808223121/http://wn.com/Samsung Galaxy S2 vs HTC Desire S - GPS Test/video details
  • GPS...1:28
  • Global Positioning System...3:35
  • How GPS works...5:11
  • The Truth About GPS: How it works...3:11
  • Darth Vader recording for TomTom GPS - behind the scenes...2:27
  • Magellan GPS Navigation Premium Car Kit Pre-Release In-Car / On-Road Review (iPhone or iPod Touch)...6:30
  • Nokia N95 - GPS Demo...2:05
  • How GPS Receivers Work...1:17
  • Personalized GPS...2:23
  • Case of the Technical Knockout - How Does GPS Work...4:26
  • Tomorrow (GPS)...1:10
  • Poor Man's GPS...3:09
  • Is Garmin GPS King? - 2008 GPS Navigation Comparison Video...4:45
  • Samsung Galaxy S2 vs HTC Desire S - GPS Test...3:29
I was under the impression that GPS was supposed to make your life easier...
1:28
GPS
I was under the im­pres­sion that GPS was sup­posed to make your life eas­i­er......
pub­lished: 15 Sep 2009
au­thor: sheep­films
3:35
Glob­al Po­si­tion­ing Sys­tem
This NASA pro­duced short film (3:30) de­scribes the Glob­al Po­si­tion­ing Sys­tem. It is a grea...
pub­lished: 31 Dec 2006
5:11
How GPS works
The GPS net­work and how grav­i­ty af­fects time and space. The mil­i­tary op­er­a­tions need­ed beh...
pub­lished: 14 Nov 2008
au­thor: JWilko75
3:11
The Truth About GPS: How it works
Col. David Buck­man, Air Force Space Com­mand, talks about GPS, how it works, and mod­ern­izat...
pub­lished: 03 Feb 2010
2:27
Darth Vader record­ing for Tom­Tom GPS - be­hind the scenes
Lord Vader com­mands you to turn to the Dark Side. Will you be able to re­sist as he guides ...
pub­lished: 04 May 2010
6:30
Mag­el­lan GPS Nav­i­ga­tion Pre­mi­um Car Kit Pre-Re­lease In-Car / On-Road Re­view (iPhone or iPod Touch)
Check out this pre-re­lease in-car / on-road re­view of the Mag­el­lan Pre­mi­um Car Kit for iPh...
pub­lished: 27 Dec 2009
au­thor: ShaneX­man
2:05
Nokia N95 - GPS Demo
Nokia has again set a stan­dard for phones. This GPS demo is very cool.......
pub­lished: 26 Sep 2006
1:17
How GPS Re­ceivers Work
A GPS re­ceiv­er uses sig­nals from satel­lites to pin­point its exact lo­ca­tion on Earth, any t...
pub­lished: 09 Mar 2007
2:23
Per­son­al­ized GPS
Per­son­al­ized GPS to fit your lifestyle. Note: We at Taste­less Choice apol­o­gize to any­one w...
pub­lished: 20 Jun 2008
4:26
Case of the Tech­ni­cal Knock­out - How Does GPS Work
Fourth seg­ment of NASA Sci Files The Case of the Tech­ni­cal Knock­out ex­plain­ing how GPS rec...
pub­lished: 20 Aug 2007
1:10
To­mor­row (GPS)
Over­all win­ner of the Mofilm 2010 Pepsi Short Film Com­pe­ti­tion. www.​mofilm.​com Cred­its: He...
pub­lished: 19 Feb 2010
au­thor: AbeForsythe
3:09
Poor Man's GPS
Spencer be­comes a suit­able re­place­ment to my bro­ken GPS. Until... Thanks to GPS Ma­ni­ac for...
pub­lished: 20 Sep 2007
au­thor: nalts
4:45
Is Garmin GPS King? - 2008 GPS Nav­i­ga­tion Com­par­i­son Video
www.​edmunds.​com You've got a busy sum­mer ahead. Be­fore set­ting out on that road trip o...
pub­lished: 14 Jun 2008
3:29
Sam­sung Galaxy S2 vs HTC De­sire S - GPS Test
Here is a quick demo using an ap­pli­ca­tion called GPS Test on both the Galaxy S2 and De­sire...
pub­lished: 10 May 2011
au­thor: samjpullen
Vimeo results:
2:40
Char­lotte Gains­bourg - Heav­en Can Wait
Of­fi­cial video of the new Char­lotte Gains­bourg's sin­gle, in duo with Beck. Di­rect­ed by Kei...
pub­lished: 19 Nov 2009
4:16
This Is­re­al
Watch my new video! Lost in the Alps... tinyurl.​com/​78zjdzb Please watch and share! :D A ...
pub­lished: 20 Oct 2011
4:01
Near Space Bal­loon Flight, shot with HD HERO cam­eras from GoPro
We are a group of en­gi­neers/de­sign­ers from San Fran­cis­co. This was our sec­ond bal­loon lau...
pub­lished: 11 Jun 2010
au­thor: Kevin Macko
11:28
MikroKopter - Hex­aKopter
Tests of the MK-Hex­aKopter Flight-Test, GPS-Test and Pay­load-Test "En­glish sub­ti­tles" Tec...
pub­lished: 20 Aug 2009
au­thor: Hol­ger Buss
Youtube results:
7:59
Mo­toro­la Droid: Google Maps with Voice Nav­i­ga­tion, An­droid 2.0
Google Maps with Voice Nav­i­ga­tion on Mo­toro­la Droid, An­droid 2.0 on Ver­i­zon Wire­less Full ...
pub­lished: 29 Oct 2009
au­thor: chuongvi­sion
1:32
GPS on PMS
My GPS start­ed cop­ping an at­ti­tude with me be­cause it was on PMS. Luck­i­ly I cap­tured it on...
pub­lished: 20 Jun 2006
au­thor: nalts
10:28
Garmin Nuvi 205 GPS
Portable and af­ford­able, nüvi 205 is your per­son­al trav­el as­sis­tant for life on the g...
pub­lished: 14 Oct 2008
1:38
GPS, rel­a­tiv­i­ty, and nu­cle­ar de­tec­tion
GPS is just a big clock in space! (and it can de­tect nu­cle­ar ex­plo­sions) Try­ing out a new ...
pub­lished: 07 Nov 2011
au­thor: min­utephysics




  • GPS pentru agricultura: GPS carto: masurare suprafete agricole
    WN / Gps agricultura
  • Stanmore Public School is home to Newington College, an independent GPS boys school, the state primary Stanmore Public School [5] and Saint Michael's Catholic Primary.
    Creative Commons / J Bar
  • Founders' Wing, Newington College. Stan more is home to Newington College, an independent GPS boys school, the state primary Stan more Public School [5] and Saint Michael's Catholic Primary.
    Creative Commons / J Bar
  • Nokia E72 with free GPS navigation is a high-performance device tailor-made for seamless business and personal communication
    WN / Emico Silalahi
  • Blackberry 9800 Torch smartphone,announced 2010 August,- features 3G,3.2
    WN / Emico Silalahi
  • Yo-mobil is equipped with GLONASS/GPS navigation device. Although the GLONASS constellation has reached global coverage, its commercialization, especially development of the user segment, has been lacking compared to the American GPS system.
    Creative Commons / Miosw
  • File Name : DSC_0344.TIF File Size : 17.0MB (17774452 bytes) Date Taken : Wed, Feb 4, 2004 3:59:52 pm Image Size : 3008 x 1960 pixels Resolution : 300 x 300 dpi Bit Depth : 8 bits/channel Protection Attribute : Off Camera ID : N/A Camera : NIKON D1X Quality Mode : HI (RGB Uncompressed) Metering Mode : Matrix Exposure Mode : Manual Speed Light : No Focal Length : 35.0 mm Shutter Speed : 1/5 seconds Aperture : F5.6 Exposure Compensation : 0.0 EV White Balance : Incandescent Lens : 28-105 mm F3.5-F
    Creative Commons / Manchester City Council
  • KODIAK, Alaska - A Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak MH-65D Dolphin helicopter sits in the air station's Hangar 3 July 15, 2011, after it was delivered to Kodiak June 24. The MH-65D features a new flight navigation system, new digital computer displays, embedded GPS and other digital avionics components. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Charly Hengen. (1319356) ( Air Station Kodiak, H65D, 6529 )
    US Coastguard / Petty Officer 3rd Class Charly Hengen.
  • MOBILE, Ala. - Pictured are the current and prototype components of the Coast Guard HC-130 Hercules cockpit complete with glass displays and yoke-mounted Garmin GPS MAP 695/696 portable aviation receiver at the Aviation Logistics Center in Mobile, Ala., Oct. 21, 2010. The Coast Guard is constantly working to upgrade and improve the capabilities of the aircraft they fly providing the best platform currently possible for Coast Guard missions worldwide. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Lt. Cmdr. Brian Eri
    US Coastguard / Lt. Cmdr. Brian Erickson.
  • Unlaunched GPS satellite on display at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. The space segment (SS) is composed of the orbiting GPS satellites, or Space Vehicles (SV) in GPS parlance.
    Creative Commons / Scott Ehardt
  • A typical OEM GPS receiver module measuring 15×17 mm. GPS receivers may include an input for differential corrections, using the RTCM SC-104 format.
    Creative Commons / Beao
  • Wikitude World Browser on the iPhone 3GS uses GPS and a solid state compass. Augmented reality (AR) is a term for a live direct or an indirect view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are augmented by computer-generated sensory input, such as sound or graphics.
    Creative Commons / Mr3641
  • Attaching a JDAM kit, March 2003. The JDAM is not a weapon; rather it is a
    Creative Commons / Felix Garza
  • In this Sept. 18, 2008, file photo air traffic controller Karl Haynes Jr. stands beneath a radar screen in the control tower at Washington's Reagan National Airport. The disappearance of Air France Flight 477 has critics of radar-based air traffic control calling on the U.S. and other countries to hasten the move to GPS-based networks that promise to precisely track all planes.
    AP / Charles Dharapak, File
  • Danny Olivas during EVA 3 flight day 9 Danny Olives and Christer Fuglesang performed EVA 3. The pair completed all tasks that were to be done, including installing two GPS antennas and deploying the Starboard 3 (S3) Payload Attach System (PAS), a new Rate Gyro Assembly (RGA) 2 and routing of Node 3 Avionics cables.
    NASA / Ras
  • Moviltracing - Sistema de Seguimiento GPS para teléfonos móviles.
    WN / La Web Móvil
  • New York City taxis negotiate Columbus Circle in Manhattan, Tuesday Oct. 4, 2005. Taxi regulators have been exploring the possibility of requiring all city cabs to come equipped with GPS devices, which can be used to pinpoint a vehicle's exact location using signals from satellites. But the potential cost of such a system has bothered some drivers, already squeezed by rising fuel prices.
    AP / Richard Drew
  • Members of the Fleet Survey Team install hydrographic sonar and GPS navigation equipment on their 9-meter survey vessel during a pre-deployment training session.
    US Navy / U.S. Navy photo
  • NACOGDOCHES, Texas (Feb. 5, 2003)--Chief Petty Officer Scott Gray, a machinery technician with the Gulf Strike Team, and Petty Officer 2nd Class Anicia Hokanson, a marine science technician with the Atlantic Strike Team, plot coordinates of reported debris sites on their computer February 5, at the Hemphill Texas Space Shuttle Columbia Recovery Command Post. The debris coordinates are used to make maps with the locations of debris for teams to locate with their handheld GPS. USCG photo by PA2 Er
    US Coastguard / PA2 Eric Hedaa
  • FORT PICKENS, Fla. - Todd Farrar and Stephanie Hill, members of a Snorkel Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Technique team, find and record evidence of oil below the water's surface at Fort Pickens Sept. 17, 2010. Hill uses a GPS to record exact locations of where Farrar observes evidence underwater. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Nate Littlejohn (1002443) ( Snorkel SCAT )
    US Coastguard / Petty Officer 3rd Class Nate Littlejohn
  • ALAMEDA, Calif. (May 19. 2006) The modern-day Plasma CAM (a plasma cutting machine controlled by a computer) displays the process of the plasma arch cutting a design, which is created in the computer onto metal. The machine was used by the ISC Alameda Metal Fabrication shop on Coast Guard Island to create a 60-foot by 40-foot cradle for cutters during dry dock, parts of the main gas turbine exhaust ducting for 378-foot cutters, 50-ton air conditioner salt water strainers, sections of foundations
    US Coastguard / PA3 Sabrina Rivera-Arrayan
  • ALAMEDA, Calif. (May 19. 2006) The modern-day Plasma CAM (a plasma cutting machine controlled by a computer) displays the process of the plasma arch cutting a design, which is created in the computer onto metal. The machine was used by the ISC Alameda Metal Fabrication shop on Coast Guard Island to create a 60-foot by 40-foot cradle for cutters during dry dock, parts of the main gas turbine exhaust ducting for 378-foot cutters, 50-ton air conditioner salt water strainers, sections of foundations
    US Coastguard / PA3 Sabrina Rivera-Arrayan
  • Petty Officer 2nd Class Sean T. Smith, an Electrician's Mate with Coast Guard Sector Baltimore's Engineering Department, installs a new breaker and inspects the wiring of a 27-foot utility boat Thursday, April 16, 2009. The utility boat was brought to Sector Baltimore for installation of the Scaleable Integrated Navigation System package which includes a new radar, depth sounder, heading sensor and GPS. (Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandyn Hill.) (523807) ( )
    US Coastguard / Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandyn Hill.
  • A THSR passenger's ticket and GPS navigation cellphone indicating a speed of 296 km/h (184 mph). THSR started service with reserved tickets only.
    Creative Commons
  • GPS on smartphone cycling
    Creative Commons / HawaiianMama
  • NoneApple iPhone 4 Quadband 3G HSDPA GPS Phone (SIM Free)
    WN / DAVIS PEREZ
  • An ultra-Orthodox man walks next to a vegetable stand at the Mahne Yehuda market in downtown Jerusalem, Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2007. First practiced in an era of primitive scythes but still in force in an age of GPS-guided combines, the commandment requires Jewish farmers in Israel to let their fields rest every seventh year, just as Jews are required to rest every seventh day. The sabbatical begins on the Jewish new year, Rosh Hashana, which falls on Sept. 12.
    AP / Sebastian Scheiner
  • Jackson statue and Saint Louis Cathedral. Jackson Square (formerly Place d'Armes), originally designed by architect and landscaper Louis H. Pilié (although he is only given credit for the iron fence), is an open park the size of a city-block located at the center of the French Quarter ( GPS +29.95748 -090.06310 ).
    Creative Commons / Sami
  • Carriage in French Quarter, Jackson Square (formerly Place d'Armes), originally designed by architect and landscaper Louis H. Pilié (although he is only given credit for the iron fence), is an open park the size of a city-block located at the center of the French Quarter ( GPS +29.95748 -090.06310 )
    Creative Commons / Sami
  • GULF SHORES, Ala. - Stephanie Hill, a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration employee and member of Snorkel Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Technique Team 8, records evidence of oil found below the water's surface in Gulf Shores, Ala., Sept. 20, 2010. Hill uses a GPS to gather exact locations and records the data to pass on daily to the Deepwater Horizon Response Unified Area Command in New Orleans. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Lauren Jorgensen) (1003218) ( 100920G 11
    US Coastguard / Petty Officer 2nd Class Lauren Jorgensen)


photo: Creative Commons
Supermodel Miranda Kerr
The Examiner
06 Aug 2012
Related topics Miranda KerrOrlando BloomMoviesThe Hobbitlord of the ringsVictoria's Secret Advertisement The hunkiest elf in "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit," Orlando Bloom, 35, was...



photo: US Navy / MC2 Clay Weis
File - Vice President Dick Cheney is saluted by the sideboys as he boards the USS Constitution for a Fourth of July celebration at Boston, Mass., July 4, 2008.
WorldNews.com
08 Aug 2012
Article by WN.com Correspondent Dallas Darling His heart told him to evade the Vietnam War draft and then, while serving in the Nixon Administration, it encouraged him to send more U.S. troops to...



photo: AP / Stephin Chernin,File
Kevin Federline, husband of pop star Britney Spears appears on MTV's Total Request Live in this Nov. 2, 2006 file photo at MTV Times Square studios in New York. Police investigated a possible threat against Federline earlier this year, but closed the case because of insufficient evidence, authorities said Monday Sept. 17, 2007.
The Examiner
06 Aug 2012
Related topics Kevin FederlineKFed Advertisement Kevin Federline trashed a mansion that he was renting and is being sued by the property's landlord. KFed has already responded to the claims and said...



photo: AP / Matt Dunham
Belarus' Nadzeya Ostapchuk celebrates after winning the gold medal in the women's shot put final during the athletics in the Olympic Stadium at the 2012 Summer Olympics, London
Hartford Courant
06 Aug 2012
LONDON (Reuters) - Belarusian Nadzeya Ostapchuk finally turned the tables on Valerie Adams to win gold in the Olympic women's shot put competition on...





photo: WN / Emico Silalahi
Starbucks Coffee in Mega Mall,Batam, Indonesia, - Starbucks Corporation is an international coffee and coffee house chain based in Seattle,Washington.
Star Tribune
08 Aug 2012
SAN FRANCISCO - Cash moved one small step nearer to its deathbed with the announcement on Wednesday that Square, the mobile payments start-up, would form a partnership with Starbucks Coffee Co....



photo: WN / Aruna Mirasdar
view of Balekilla of Rajgad fort
DNA India
07 Aug 2012
Global positioning system (GPS), remote-controlled miniature helicopters and aerial photography. The Maharashtra archaeology department is in the process of preparing a master plan of heritage sites...



photo: WN / marzena
Asthma - health - Therapy. June 2010
The Charlotte Observer
06 Aug 2012
Inhalers count puffs. Peak-flow meters are read digitally. Nebulizers have shrunk to half their old size. In the past few years, asthma patients have seen technology make the disease more manageable....



BGR MapMyIndia has launched the CarPad 5, which is an 5-inch Android powered hybrid which doubles as a GPS navigator, a phone and a 3G tablet. The CarPad 5 sports a 5-inch capacitive display, a 1GHz single-core processor made by Samsung, 4GB of storage memory and...(size: 1.7Kb)
Canada Newswire CALGARY, Aug. 7, 2012 /CNW/ - (TSX:HEM) Today, Hemisphere GPS announced distribution partnerships in Brazil and China for their flagship S320™ GNSS survey receiver. Launched last fall, S320 combines the advanced GNSS receiver performance of Hemisphere GPS' Eclipse™ technology, precise geodetic...(size: 6.5Kb)
Otago Daily Times The release conditions for the man dubbed the Beast of Blenheim are due to be decided today, including whether he will be tracked by GPS. Three members of the Parole Board are meeting at Rolleston Prison in Christchurch to set the rules of release for serial sex...(size: 1.7Kb)
Canberra Times GP clinics and medical practices in Canberra's north Information supplied by Andrew Leigh MP, July 2012 Economist-turned-federal MP Andrew Leigh may have come up with a simple way of increasing competition between general practices in his northern Canberra electorate of Fraser. Dr Leigh's office...(size: 3.2Kb)
Huffington Post Free falling -- the exhilaration of flying and not really being sure of how safely you'll land. Isn't that why we go on scary rides at amusement parks, drive a little too fast and even fall in love? For some, taking risks is a way of life and for others something to avoid at all costs. But to live...(size: 4.4Kb)
Kypost You can get the surprise of your life when you use an online-mapping service such as Google Maps or Mapquest. When I punched start and end points into Google Maps for a trip near Yosemite National Park, the suggested route included a Jeep trail that was built in 1916-17 to 1913 wagon-trail...(size: 3.3Kb)
Scoop Monday, 6 August 2012, 2:06 pm Press Release: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners Royal NZ College of GPs re-opens applications for training programme in some areas Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners President Dr Harry Pert says a second round of recruitment for GPEP Year 1...(size: 2.5Kb)
Geodesy
Blank globe.svg
Fundamentals
Geodesy · Geodynamics
Geomatics · Cartography
Concepts
Datum · Distance · Geoid
Fig. Earth · Geodetic sys.
Geog. coord. system
Hor. pos. represent.
Lat./Long. · Map proj.
Ref. ellipsoid · Sat. geodesy
Spatial ref. sys.
Technologies
GNSS · GPS · GLONASS · IRNSS
Standards
ED50 · ETRS89 · GRS 80
NAD83 · NAVD88 · SAD69
SRID · UTM · WGS84
History
History of geodesy
NAVD29
Artist's conception of GPS Block II-F satellite in Earth orbit.
Civilian GPS receiver ("GPS navigation device") in a marine application.
GPS receivers are now integrated in many mobile phones.
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman runs through a checklist during Global Positioning System satellite operations.

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a space-based satellite navigation system that provides location and time information in all weather, anywhere on or near the Earth, where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites. It is maintained by the United States government and is freely accessible to anyone with a GPS receiver.

The GPS program provides critical capabilities to military, civil and commercial users around the world. In addition, GPS is the backbone for modernizing the global air traffic system.

The GPS project was developed in 1973 to overcome the limitations of previous navigation systems,[1] integrating ideas from several predecessors, including a number of classified engineering design studies from the 1960s. GPS was created and realized by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and was originally run with 24 satellites. It became fully operational in 1994.

Advances in technology and new demands on the existing system have now led to efforts to modernize the GPS system and implement the next generation of GPS III satellites and Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX).[2] Announcements from the Vice President and the White House in 1998 initiated these changes. In 2000, U.S. Congress authorized the modernization effort, referred to as GPS III.

In addition to GPS, other systems are in use or under development. The Russian GLObal NAvigation Satellite System (GLONASS) was in use by only the Russian military, until it was made fully available to civilians in 2007. There are also the planned European Union Galileo positioning system, Chinese Compass navigation system, and Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System.

Contents

History[link]

The design of GPS is based partly on similar ground-based radio-navigation systems, such as LORAN and the Decca Navigator developed in the early 1940s, and used during World War II. In 1956, Friedwardt Winterberg[3] proposed a test of general relativity (for time slowing in a strong gravitational field) using accurate atomic clocks placed in orbit inside artificial satellites. (To achieve accuracy requirements, GPS uses principles of general relativity to correct the satellites' atomic clocks.[4]) Additional inspiration for GPS came when the Soviet Union launched the first man-made satellite, Sputnik in 1957. Two American physicists, William Guier and George Weiffenbach, at Johns Hopkins's Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), decided on their own to monitor Sputnik's radio transmissions.[5] Within hours they realized that, because of the Doppler effect, they could pinpoint where the satellite was along its orbit from the Doppler shift. The Director of the APL gave them access to their UNIVAC to do the heavy calculations required. When they released the orbit of Sputnik to the media, the Russians were dumbfounded to learn how powerful American computers had become, as they would not have been able to calculate the orbit themselves. The following spring, Frank McClure, the deputy director of the APL, asked Guier and Weiffenbach to look at the inverse problem where you know the location of the satellite and you want to find your own location. (The Navy was developing the submarine-launched Polaris missile, which required them to know the submarine's location.) This led them and APL to develop the Transit system.[6]

Official logo for NAVSTAR GPS
Official logo for NAVSTAR GPS
Emblem of the 50th Space Wing

The first satellite navigation system, Transit (satellite), used by the United States Navy, was first successfully tested in 1960. It used a constellation of five satellites and could provide a navigational fix approximately once per hour. In 1967, the U.S. Navy developed the Timation satellite that proved the ability to place accurate clocks in space, a technology required by GPS. In the 1970s, the ground-based Omega Navigation System, based on phase comparison of signal transmission from pairs of stations,[7] became the first worldwide radio navigation system. Limitations of these systems drove the need for a more universal navigation solution with greater accuracy.

While there were wide needs for accurate navigation in military and civilian sectors, almost none of those were seen as justification for the billions of dollars it would cost in research, development, deployment, and operation for a constellation of navigation satellites. During the Cold War arms race, the nuclear threat to the existence of the United States was the one need that did justify this cost in the view of the United States Congress. This deterrent effect is why GPS was funded. It is also the reason for the ultra secrecy at that time. The nuclear triad consisted of the United States Navy's submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) along with United States Air Force (USAF) strategic bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Considered vital to the nuclear deterrence posture, accurate determination of the SLBM launch position was a force multiplier.

Precise navigation would enable United States submarines to get an accurate fix of their positions prior to launching their SLBMs.[8] The USAF with two-thirds of the nuclear triad also had requirements for a more accurate and reliable navigation system. The Navy and Air Force were developing their own technologies in parallel to solve what was essentially the same problem. To increase the survivability of ICBMs, there was a proposal to use mobile launch platforms (such as Russian SS-24 and SS-25) and so the need to fix the launch position had similarity to the SLBM situation.

In 1960, the Air Force proposed a radio-navigation system called MOSAIC (MObile System for Accurate ICBM Control) that was essentially a 3-D LORAN. A follow-on study called Project 57 was worked in 1963 and it was "in this study that the GPS concept was born." That same year the concept was pursued as Project 621B, which had "many of the attributes that you now see in GPS"[9] and promised increased accuracy for Air Force bombers as well as ICBMs. Updates from the Navy Transit system were too slow for the high speeds of Air Force operation. The Navy Research Laboratory continued advancements with their Timation (Time Navigation) satellites, first launched in 1967, and with the third one in 1974 carrying the first atomic clock into orbit.[10]

With these parallel developments in the 1960s, it was realized that a superior system could be developed by synthesizing the best technologies from 621B, Transit, Timation, and SECOR in a multi-service program.

During Labor Day weekend in 1973, a meeting of about 12 military officers at the Pentagon discussed the creation of a Defense Navigation Satellite System (DNSS). It was at this meeting that "the real synthesis that became GPS was created." Later that year, the DNSS program was named Navstar. With the individual satellites being associated with the name Navstar (as with the predecessors Transit and Timation), a more fully encompassing name was used to identify the constellation of Navstar satellites, Navstar-GPS, which was later shortened simply to GPS.[11]

After Korean Air Lines Flight 007, carrying 269 people, was shot down in 1983 after straying into the USSR's prohibited airspace,[12] in the vicinity of Sakhalin and Moneron Islands, President Ronald Reagan issued a directive making GPS freely available for civilian use, once it was sufficiently developed, as a common good.[13] The first satellite was launched in 1989, and the 24th satellite was launched in 1994.

Initially, the highest quality signal was reserved for military use, and the signal available for civilian use was intentionally degraded (Selective Availability). This changed with President Bill Clinton ordering Selective Availability to be turned off at midnight May 1, 2000, improving the precision of civilian GPS from 100 meters (330 ft) to 20 meters (66 ft). The executive order signed in 1996 to turn off Selective Availability in 2000 was proposed by the US Secretary of Defense, William Perry, because of the widespread growth of differential GPS services to improve civilian accuracy and eliminate the US military advantage. Moreover, the US military was actively developing technologies to deny GPS service to potential adversaries on a regional basis.[14]

Over the last decade, the U.S. has implemented several improvements to the GPS service, including new signals for civil use and increased accuracy and integrity for all users, all while maintaining compatibility with existing GPS equipment.

GPS modernization [15] has now become an ongoing initiative to upgrade the Global Positioning System with new capabilities to meet growing military, civil, and commercial needs. The program is being implemented through a series of satellite acquisitions, including GPS Block III and the Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX). The U.S. Government continues to improve the GPS space and ground segments to increase performance and accuracy.

GPS is owned and operated by the United States Government as a national resource. Department of Defense (DoD) is the steward of GPS. Interagency GPS Executive Board (IGEB) oversaw GPS policy matters from 1996 to 2004. After that the National Space-Based Positioning, Navigation and Timing Executive Committee was established by presidential directive in 2004 to advise and coordinate federal departments and agencies on matters concerning the GPS and related systems. The executive committee is chaired jointly by the deputy secretaries of defense and transportation. Its membership includes equivalent-level officials from the departments of state, commerce, and homeland security, the joint chiefs of staff, and NASA. Components of the executive office of the president participate as observers to the executive committee, and the FCC chairman participates as a liaison.

The DoD is required by law to "maintain a Standard Positioning Service (as defined in the federal radio navigation plan and the standard positioning service signal specification) that will be available on a continuous, worldwide basis," and "develop measures to prevent hostile use of GPS and its augmentations without unduly disrupting or degrading civilian uses."

Timeline and modernization[link]

Summary of satellites[16]
Block Launch
Period
Satellite launches Currently in orbit
and healthy
Suc-
cess
Fail-
ure
In prep-
aration
Plan-
ned
I 1978–1985 10 1 0 0 0
II 1989–1990 9 0 0 0 0
IIA 1990–1997 19 0 0 0 10
IIR 1997–2004 12 1 0 0 12
IIR-M 2005–2009 8 0 0 0 7
IIF 2010– 2 0 10 0 2
IIIA 2014– 0 0 0 12 0
IIIB Theoretical 0 0 0 8 0
IIIC Theoretical 0 0 0 16 0
Total 60 2 10 36 31
(Last update: 24 May 2010)

PRN 01 from Block IIR-M is unhealthy
PRN 25 from Block IIA is unhealthy
PRN 32 from Block IIA is unhealthy
[17] For a more complete list, see list of GPS satellite launches

  • In 1972, the USAF Central Inertial Guidance Test Facility (Holloman AFB), conducted developmental flight tests of two prototype GPS receivers over White Sands Missile Range, using ground-based pseudo-satellites.[citation needed]
  • In 1978, the first experimental Block-I GPS satellite was launched.
  • In 1983, after Soviet interceptor aircraft shot down the civilian airliner KAL 007 that strayed into prohibited airspace because of navigational errors, killing all 269 people on board, U.S. President Ronald Reagan announced that GPS would be made available for civilian uses once it was completed.,[18][19] although it had been previously published [in Navigation magazine] that the CA code would be available to civilian users.
  • By 1985, ten more experimental Block-I satellites had been launched to validate the concept. Command & Control of these satellites had moved from Onizuka AFS, CA and turned over to the 2nd Satellite Control Squadron (2SCS) located at Falcon Air Force Station in Colorado Springs, Colorado.[20][21]
  • On February 14, 1989, the first modern Block-II satellite was launched.
  • The Gulf War from 1990 to 1991, was the first conflict where GPS was widely used.[22]
  • In 1992, the 2nd Space Wing, which originally managed the system, was de-activated and replaced by the 50th Space Wing.
  • By December 1993, GPS achieved initial operational capability (IOC), indicating a full constellation (24 satellites) was available and providing the Standard Positioning Service (SPS).[23]
  • Full Operational Capability (FOC) was declared by Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) in April 1995, signifying full availability of the military's secure Precise Positioning Service (PPS).[23]
  • In 1996, recognizing the importance of GPS to civilian users as well as military users, U.S. President Bill Clinton issued a policy directive[24] declaring GPS to be a dual-use system and establishing an Interagency GPS Executive Board to manage it as a national asset.
  • In 1998, United States Vice President Al Gore announced plans to upgrade GPS with two new civilian signals for enhanced user accuracy and reliability, particularly with respect to aviation safety and in 2000 the United States Congress authorized the effort, referring to it as GPS III.
  • On May 2, 2000 "Selective Availability" was discontinued as a result of the 1996 executive order, allowing users to receive a non-degraded signal globally.
  • In 2004, the United States Government signed an agreement with the European Community establishing cooperation related to GPS and Europe's planned Galileo system.
  • In 2004, United States President George W. Bush updated the national policy and replaced the executive board with the National Executive Committee for Space-Based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing.[25]
  • November 2004, QUALCOMM announced successful tests of assisted GPS for mobile phones.[26]
  • In 2005, the first modernized GPS satellite was launched and began transmitting a second civilian signal (L2C) for enhanced user performance.
  • On September 14, 2007, the aging mainframe-based Ground Segment Control System was transferred to the new Architecture Evolution Plan.[27]
  • On May 19, 2009, the United States Government Accountability Office issued a report warning that some GPS satellites could fail as soon as 2010.[28]
  • On May 21, 2009, the Air Force Space Command allayed fears of GPS failure saying "There's only a small risk we will not continue to exceed our performance standard."[29]
  • On January 11, 2010, an update of ground control systems caused a software incompatibility with 8000 to 10000 military receivers manufactured by a division of Trimble Navigation Limited of Sunnyvale, Calif.[30]
  • On February 25, 2010,[31] the U.S. Air Force awarded the contract to develop the GPS Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX) to improve accuracy and availability of GPS navigation signals, and serve as a critical part of GPS modernization.
  • A GPS satellite was launched on May 28, 2010.[32] The oldest GPS satellite still in operation was launched on November 26, 1990, and became operational on December 10, 1990.[33]
  • The GPS satellite, GPS IIF-2, was launched on July 16, 2011 at 06:41 GMT from Space Launch Complex 37B at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.[34]

Awards[link]

On February 10, 1993, the National Aeronautic Association selected the GPS Team as winners of the 1992 Robert J. Collier Trophy, the nation's most prestigious aviation award. This team combines researchers from the Naval Research Laboratory, the USAF, the Aerospace Corporation, Rockwell International Corporation, and IBM Federal Systems Company. The citation honors them "for the most significant development for safe and efficient navigation and surveillance of air and spacecraft since the introduction of radio navigation 50 years ago."

Two GPS developers received the National Academy of Engineering Charles Stark Draper Prize for 2003:

In 1998, GPS technology was inducted into the Space Foundation Space Technology Hall of Fame.[36]

Francis X. Kane (Col. USAF, ret.) was inducted into the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame at Lackland A.F.B., San Antonio, Texas, March 2, 2010 for his role in space technology development and the engineering design concept of GPS conducted as part of Project 621B.

On October 4, 2011, the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) awarded the Global Positioning System (GPS) its 60th Anniversary Award, nominated by IAF member, the American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). The IAF Honors and Awards Committee recognized the uniqueness of the GPS program and the exemplary role it has played in building international collaboration for the benefit of humanity.

Basic concept of GPS[link]

A GPS receiver calculates its position by precisely timing the signals sent by GPS satellites high above the Earth. Each satellite continually transmits messages that include

  • the time the message was transmitted
  • satellite position at time of message transmission

The receiver uses the messages it receives to determine the transit time of each message and computes the distance to each satellite. These distances along with the satellites' locations are used with the possible aid of trilateration, depending on which algorithm is used, to compute the position of the receiver. This position is then displayed, perhaps with a moving map display or latitude and longitude; elevation information may be included. Many GPS units show derived information such as direction and speed, calculated from position changes.

Three satellites might seem enough to solve for position since space has three dimensions and a position near the Earth's surface can be assumed. However, even a very small clock error multiplied by the very large speed of light[37] — the speed at which satellite signals propagate — results in a large positional error. Therefore receivers use four or more satellites to solve for both the receiver's location and time. The very accurately computed time is effectively hidden by most GPS applications, which use only the location. A few specialized GPS applications do however use the time; these include time transfer, traffic signal timing, and synchronization of cell phone base stations.

Although four satellites are required for normal operation, fewer apply in special cases. If one variable is already known, a receiver can determine its position using only three satellites. For example, a ship or aircraft may have known elevation. Some GPS receivers may use additional clues or assumptions such as reusing the last known altitude, dead reckoning, inertial navigation, or including information from the vehicle computer, to give a less degraded position when fewer than four satellites are visible.[38][39][40]

Position calculation introduction[link]

Two sphere surfaces intersecting in a circle
Surface of sphere intersecting a circle (not a solid disk) at two points

To provide an introductory description of how a GPS receiver works, error effects are deferred to a later section. Using messages received from a minimum of four visible satellites, a GPS receiver is able to determine the times sent and then the satellite positions corresponding to these times sent. The x, y, and z components of position, and the time sent, are designated as Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \scriptstyle\left[x_i,\, y_i,\, z_i,\, t_i\right]

where the subscript i has the value 1, 2, 3, or 4. Knowing the indicated time the message was received Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \scriptstyle\ {t}_{r}

, the GPS receiver computes the transit time of the message as Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \scriptstyle\left ( {t}_r-t_i\right ) . A pseudorange, Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \scriptstyle p_i \triangleq \left ( {t}_r-t_i\right )c , is computed as an approximation of the distance from satellite to GPS receiver.

A satellite's position and pseudorange define a sphere, centered on the satellite, with radius equal to the pseudorange. The position of the receiver is somewhere on the surface of this sphere. Thus with four satellites, the indicated position of the GPS receiver is at or near the intersection of the surfaces of four spheres. In the ideal case of no errors, the GPS receiver would be at a precise intersection of the four surfaces.

If the surfaces of two spheres intersect at more than one point, they intersect in a circle. The article trilateration shows this mathematically. A figure, Two Sphere Surfaces Intersecting in a Circle, is shown below. Two points where the surfaces of the spheres intersect are clearly shown in the figure. The distance between these two points is the diameter of the circle of intersection. The intersection of a third spherical surface with the first two will be its intersection with that circle; in most cases of practical interest, this means they intersect at two points.[41] Another figure, Surface of Sphere Intersecting a Circle (not a solid disk) at Two Points, illustrates the intersection. The two intersections are marked with dots. Again the article trilateration clearly shows this mathematically.

For automobiles and other near-earth vehicles, the correct position of the GPS receiver is the intersection closest to the Earth's surface.[42] For space vehicles, the intersection farthest from Earth may be the correct one.

The correct position for the GPS receiver is also on the intersection with the surface of the sphere corresponding to the fourth satellite.

Correcting a GPS receiver's clock[link]

One of the most significant error sources is the GPS receiver's clock. Because of the very large value of the speed of light, c, the estimated distances from the GPS receiver to the satellites, the pseudoranges, are very sensitive to errors in the GPS receiver clock; for example an error of one microsecond (0.000 001 second) corresponds to an error of 300 metres (980 ft). This suggests that an extremely accurate and expensive clock is required for the GPS receiver to work; however, manufacturers prefer to build inexpensive GPS receivers for mass markets. This dilemma is resolved by taking advantage of the fact that there are four pseudoranges.

It is likely that the surfaces of the three spheres intersect, because the circle of intersection of the first two spheres is normally quite large, and thus the third sphere surface is likely to intersect this large circle. If the clock is wrong, it is very unlikely that the surface of the sphere corresponding to the fourth satellite will initially intersect either of the two points of intersection of the first three, because any clock error could cause it to miss intersecting a point. On the other hand if a solution has been found such that all four sphere surfaces at least approximately intersect with a small deviation from a perfect intersection then it is quite likely that an accurate estimation of receiver position will have been found and that the clock is quite accurate. Methods of solution are discussed in the navigation equations section of this article.

Structure[link]

The current GPS consists of three major segments. These are the space segment (SS), a control segment (CS), and a user segment (US).[43] The U.S. Air Force develops, maintains, and operates the space and control segments. GPS satellites broadcast signals from space, and each GPS receiver uses these signals to calculate its three-dimensional location (latitude, longitude, and altitude) and the current time.[44]

The space segment is composed of 24 to 32 satellites in medium Earth orbit and also includes the payload adapters to the boosters required to launch them into orbit. The control segment is composed of a master control station, an alternate master control station, and a host of dedicated and shared ground antennas and monitor stations. The user segment is composed of hundreds of thousands of U.S. and allied military users of the secure GPS Precise Positioning Service, and tens of millions of civil, commercial, and scientific users of the Standard Positioning Service (see GPS navigation devices).

Space segment[link]

Unlaunched GPS block II-A satellite on display at the San Diego Air & Space Museum
A visual example of the GPS constellation in motion with the Earth rotating. Notice how the number of satellites in view from a given point on the Earth's surface, in this example at 45°N, changes with time.

The space segment (SS) is composed of the orbiting GPS satellites, or Space Vehicles (SV) in GPS parlance. The GPS design originally called for 24 SVs, eight each in three approximately circular orbits,[45] but this was modified to six orbital planes with four satellites each.[46] The orbits are centered on the Earth, not rotating with the Earth, but instead fixed with respect to the distant stars.[47] The six orbit planes have approximately 55° inclination (tilt relative to Earth's equator) and are separated by 60° right ascension of the ascending node (angle along the equator from a reference point to the orbit's intersection).[48] The orbital period is one-half a sidereal day, i.e. 11 hours and 58 minutes.[49] The orbits are arranged so that at least six satellites are always within line of sight from almost everywhere on Earth's surface.[50] The result of this objective is that the four satellites are not evenly spaced (90 degrees) apart within each orbit. In general terms, the angular difference between satellites in each orbit is 30, 105, 120, and 105 degrees apart which, of course, sum to 360 degrees.

Orbiting at an altitude of approximately 20,200 km (12,600 mi); orbital radius of approximately 26,600 km (16,500 mi), each SV makes two complete orbits each sidereal day, repeating the same ground track each day.[51] This was very helpful during development because even with only four satellites, correct alignment means all four are visible from one spot for a few hours each day. For military operations, the ground track repeat can be used to ensure good coverage in combat zones.

As of March 2008,[52] there are 31 actively broadcasting satellites in the GPS constellation, and two older, retired from active service satellites kept in the constellation as orbital spares. The additional satellites improve the precision of GPS receiver calculations by providing redundant measurements. With the increased number of satellites, the constellation was changed to a nonuniform arrangement. Such an arrangement was shown to improve reliability and availability of the system, relative to a uniform system, when multiple satellites fail.[53] About nine satellites are visible from any point on the ground at any one time (see animation at right), ensuring considerable redundancy over the minimum four satellites needed for a position.

Control segment[link]

Ground monitor station used from 1984 to 2007, on display at the Air Force Space & Missile Museum

The control segment is composed of

  1. a master control station (MCS),
  2. an alternate master control station,
  3. four dedicated ground antennas and
  4. six dedicated monitor stations

The MCS can also access U.S. Air Force Satellite Control Network (AFSCN) ground antennas (for additional command and control capability) and NGA (National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency) monitor stations. The flight paths of the satellites are tracked by dedicated U.S. Air Force monitoring stations in Hawaii, Kwajalein, Ascension Island, Diego Garcia, Colorado Springs, Colorado and Cape Canaveral, along with shared NGA monitor stations operated in England, Argentina, Ecuador, Bahrain, Australia and Washington DC.[54] The tracking information is sent to the Air Force Space Command's MCS at Schriever Air Force Base 25 km (16 mi) ESE of Colorado Springs, which is operated by the 2nd Space Operations Squadron (2 SOPS) of the U.S. Air Force. Then 2 SOPS contacts each GPS satellite regularly with a navigational update using dedicated or shared (AFSCN) ground antennas (GPS dedicated ground antennas are located at Kwajalein, Ascension Island, Diego Garcia, and Cape Canaveral). These updates synchronize the atomic clocks on board the satellites to within a few nanoseconds of each other, and adjust the ephemeris of each satellite's internal orbital model. The updates are created by a Kalman filter that uses inputs from the ground monitoring stations, space weather information, and various other inputs.[55]

Satellite maneuvers are not precise by GPS standards. So to change the orbit of a satellite, the satellite must be marked unhealthy, so receivers will not use it in their calculation. Then the maneuver can be carried out, and the resulting orbit tracked from the ground. Then the new ephemeris is uploaded and the satellite marked healthy again.

The Operation Control Segment (OCS) currently serves as the control segment of record. It provides the operational capability that supports global GPS users and keeps the GPS system operational and performing within specification.

OCS successfully replaced the legacy 1970’s-era mainframe computer at Schriever Air Force Base in September 2007. After installation, the system helped enable upgrades and provide a foundation for a new security architecture that supported the U.S. armed forces. OCS will continue to be the ground control system of record until the new segment, Next Generation GPS Operation Control System [2] (OCX), is fully developed and functional.

The new capabilities provided by OCX will be the cornerstone for revolutionizing GPS’s mission capabilities, and enabling [56] Air Force Space Command to greatly enhance GPS operational services to U.S. combat forces, civil partners and myriad of domestic and international users.

The GPS OCX program also will reduce cost, schedule and technical risk. It is designed to provide 50% [57] sustainment cost savings through efficient software architecture and Performance-Based Logistics. In addition, GPS OCX expected to cost millions less than the cost to upgrade OCS while providing four times the capability.

The GPS OCX program represents a critical part of GPS modernization and provides significant information assurance improvements over the current GPS OCS program.

  • OCX will have the ability to control and manage GPS legacy satellites as well as the next generation of GPS III satellites, while enabling the full array of military signals.
  • Built on a flexible architecture that can rapidly adapt to the changing needs of today’s and future GPS users allowing immediate access to GPS data and constellations status through secure, accurate and reliable information.
  • Empowers the warfighter with more secure, actionable and predictive information to enhance situational awareness.
  • Enables new modernized signals (L1C, L2C, and L5) and has M-code capability, which the legacy system is unable to do.
  • Provides significant information assurance improvements over the current program including detecting and preventing cyber attacks, while isolating, containing and operating during such attacks.
  • Supports higher volume near real-time command and control capability.

On September 14, 2011,[58] the U.S. Air Force announced the completion of GPS OCX Preliminary Design Review and confirmed that the OCX program is ready for the next phase of development.

The GPS OCX program has achieved major milestones and is on track to support the GPS IIIA launch in May 2014.

User segment[link]

GPS receivers come in a variety of formats, from devices integrated into cars, phones, and watches, to dedicated devices such as those shown here from manufacturers Trimble, Garmin and Leica (left to right).

The user segment is composed of hundreds of thousands of U.S. and allied military users of the secure GPS Precise Positioning Service, and tens of millions of civil, commercial and scientific users of the Standard Positioning Service. In general, GPS receivers are composed of an antenna, tuned to the frequencies transmitted by the satellites, receiver-processors, and a highly stable clock (often a crystal oscillator). They may also include a display for providing location and speed information to the user. A receiver is often described by its number of channels: this signifies how many satellites it can monitor simultaneously. Originally limited to four or five, this has progressively increased over the years so that, as of 2007, receivers typically have between 12 and 20 channels.[59]

A typical OEM GPS receiver module measuring 15×17 mm.

GPS receivers may include an input for differential corrections, using the RTCM SC-104 format. This is typically in the form of an RS-232 port at 4,800 bit/s speed. Data is actually sent at a much lower rate, which limits the accuracy of the signal sent using RTCM[citation needed]. Receivers with internal DGPS receivers can outperform those using external RTCM data[citation needed]. As of 2006, even low-cost units commonly include Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) receivers.

A typical GPS receiver with integrated antenna.

Many GPS receivers can relay position data to a PC or other device using the NMEA 0183 protocol. Although this protocol is officially defined by the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA),[60] references to this protocol have been compiled from public records, allowing open source tools like gpsd to read the protocol without violating intellectual property laws. Other proprietary protocols exist as well, such as the SiRF and MTK protocols. Receivers can interface with other devices using methods including a serial connection, USB, or Bluetooth.

Applications[link]

While originally a military project, GPS is considered a dual-use technology, meaning it has significant military and civilian applications.

GPS has become a widely deployed and useful tool for commerce, scientific uses, tracking, and surveillance. GPS's accurate time facilitates everyday activities such as banking, mobile phone operations, and even the control of power grids by allowing well synchronized hand-off switching.[44]

Civilian[link]

This antenna is mounted on the roof of a hut containing a scientific experiment needing precise timing.

Many civilian applications use one or more of GPS's three basic components: absolute location, relative movement, and time transfer.

  • Clock synchronization: The accuracy of GPS time signals (±10 ns)[61] is second only to the atomic clocks upon which they are based.
  • Cellular telephony: Clock synchronization enables time transfer, which is critical for synchronizing its spreading codes with other base stations to facilitate inter-cell handoff and support hybrid GPS/cellular position detection for mobile emergency calls and other applications. The first handsets with integrated GPS launched in the late 1990s. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandated the feature in either the handset or in the towers (for use in triangulation) in 2002 so emergency services could locate 911 callers. Third-party software developers later gained access to GPS APIs from Nextel upon launch, followed by Sprint in 2006, and Verizon soon thereafter.
  • Disaster relief/emergency services: Depend upon GPS for location and timing capabilities.
  • Geofencing: Vehicle tracking systems, person tracking systems, and pet tracking systems use GPS to locate a vehicle, person, or pet. These devices are attached to the vehicle, person, or the pet collar. The application provides continuous tracking and mobile or Internet updates should the target leave a designated area.[62]
  • Geotagging: Applying location coordinates to digital objects such as photographs and other documents for purposes such as creating map overlays.
  • GPS Aircraft Tracking
  • GPS tours: Location determines what content to display; for instance, information about an approaching point of interest.
  • Map-making: Both civilian and military cartographers use GPS extensively.
  • Navigation: Navigators value digitally precise velocity and orientation measurements.
  • Phasor measurements: GPS enables highly accurate timestamping of power system measurements, making it possible to compute phasors.
  • Robotics: Self-navigating, autonomous robots using a GPS sensors, which calculate latitude, longitude, time, speed, and heading.
  • Recreation: For example, geocaching, geodashing, GPS drawing and waymarking.
  • Surveying: Surveyors use absolute locations to make maps and determine property boundaries.
  • Tectonics: GPS enables direct fault motion measurement in earthquakes.
  • Telematics: GPS technology integrated with computers and mobile communications technology in automotive navigation systems
  • Fleet Tracking: The use of GPS technology to identify, locate and maintain contact reports with one or more fleet vehicles in real-time.

Restrictions on civilian use[link]

The U.S. Government controls the export of some civilian receivers. All GPS receivers capable of functioning above 18 kilometres (11 mi) altitude and 515 metres per second (1,001 kn)[63] are classified as munitions (weapons) for which State Department export licenses are required. These limits attempt to prevent use of a receiver in a ballistic missile. They would not prevent use in a cruise missile because their altitudes and speeds are similar to those of ordinary aircraft.

This rule applies even to otherwise purely civilian units that only receive the L1 frequency and the C/A (Coarse/Acquisition) code and cannot correct for Selective Availability (SA), etc.

Disabling operation above these limits exempts the receiver from classification as a munition. Vendor interpretations differ. The rule targets operation given the combination of altitude and speed, while some receivers stop operating even when stationary. This has caused problems with some amateur radio balloon launches that regularly reach 30 kilometres (19 mi).

These limits only apply to units exported from (or which have components exported from) the USA - there is a growing trade in various components, including GPS units, supplied by other countries, which are expressly sold as ITAR-free.

Military[link]

Attaching a GPS guidance kit to a 'dumb' bomb, March 2003.

As of 2009, military applications of GPS include:

  • Navigation: GPS allows soldiers to find objectives, even in the dark or in unfamiliar territory, and to coordinate troop and supply movement. In the United States armed forces, commanders use the Commanders Digital Assistant and lower ranks use the Soldier Digital Assistant.[64][65][66][67]
  • Target tracking: Various military weapons systems use GPS to track potential ground and air targets before flagging them as hostile.[citation needed] These weapon systems pass target coordinates to precision-guided munitions to allow them to engage targets accurately. Military aircraft, particularly in air-to-ground roles, use GPS to find targets (for example, gun camera video from AH-1 Cobras in Iraq show GPS co-ordinates that can be viewed with specialized software).
  • Missile and projectile guidance: GPS allows accurate targeting of various military weapons including ICBMs, cruise missiles and precision-guided munitions. Artillery projectiles. Embedded GPS receivers able to withstand accelerations of 12,000 g or about 118 km/s2 have been developed for use in 155 millimetres (6.1 in) howitzers.[68]
  • Search and Rescue: Downed pilots can be located faster if their position is known.
  • Reconnaissance: Patrol movement can be managed more closely.
  • GPS satellites carry a set of nuclear detonation detectors consisting of an optical sensor (Y-sensor), an X-ray sensor, a dosimeter, and an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) sensor (W-sensor), that form a major portion of the United States Nuclear Detonation Detection System.[69][70]

Communication[link]

The navigational signals transmitted by GPS satellites encode a variety of information including satellite positions, the state of the internal clocks, and the health of the network. These signals are transmitted on two separate carrier frequencies that are common to all satellites in the network. Two different encodings are used: a public encoding that enables lower resolution navigation, and an encrypted encoding used by the U.S. military.

Message format[link]

GPS message format
Subframes Description
1 Satellite clock,
GPS time relationship
2–3 Ephemeris
(precise satellite orbit)
4–5 Almanac component
(satellite network synopsis,
error correction)

Each GPS satellite continuously broadcasts a navigation message on L1 C/A and L2 P/Y at a rate of 50 bits per second (see bitrate). Each complete message takes 750 seconds (12 1/2 minutes) to complete. The message structure has a basic format of a 1500-bit-long frame made up of five subframes, each subframe being 300 bits (6 seconds) long. Subframes 4 and 5 are subcommutated 25 times each, so that a complete data message requires the transmission of 25 full frames. Each subframe consists of ten words, each 30 bits long. Thus, with 300 bits in a subframe times 5 subframes in a frame times 25 frames in a message, each message is 37,500 bits long. At a transmission rate of 50 bps, this gives 750 seconds to transmit an entire almanac message. Each 30-second frame begins precisely on the minute or half minute as indicated by the atomic clock on each satellite.[71]

The first part of the message encodes the week number and the time within the week,[72] as well as the data about the health of the satellite. The second part of the message, the ephemeris, provides the precise orbit for the satellite. The last part of the message, the almanac, sub commutated in subframes 4 & 5, contains coarse orbit and status information for up to 32 satellites in the constellation as well as data related to error correction. Thus, in order to obtain an accurate satellite location from this transmitted message the receiver must demodulate the message from each satellite it includes in its solution for 18 to 30 seconds. In order to collect all the transmitted almanacs the receiver must demodulate the message for 732 to 750 seconds or 12 1/2 minutes.[73]

All satellites broadcast at the same frequencies. Signals are encoded using code division multiple access (CDMA) allowing messages from individual satellites to be distinguished from each other based on unique encodings for each satellite (that the receiver must be aware of). Two distinct types of CDMA encodings are used: the coarse/acquisition (C/A) code, which is accessible by the general public, and the precise (P) code, that is encrypted so that only the U.S. military can access it.

The ephemeris is updated every 2 hours and is generally valid for 4 hours, with provisions for updates every 6 hours or longer in non-nominal conditions. The almanac is updated typically every 24 hours. Additionally data for a few weeks following is uploaded in case of transmission updates that delay data upload.

Satellite frequencies[link]

GPS frequency overview
Band Frequency Description
L1 1575.42 MHz Coarse-acquisition (C/A) and encrypted precision P(Y) codes, plus the L1 civilian (L1C) and military (M) codes on future Block III satellites.
L2 1227.60 MHz P(Y) code, plus the L2C and military codes on the Block IIR-M and newer satellites.
L3 1381.05 MHz Used for nuclear detonation (NUDET) detection.
L4 1379.913 MHz Being studied for additional ionospheric correction.[citation needed]
L5 1176.45 MHz Proposed for use as a civilian safety-of-life (SoL) signal.

All satellites broadcast at the same two frequencies, 1.57542 GHz (L1 signal) and 1.2276 GHz (L2 signal). The satellite network uses a CDMA spread-spectrum technique where the low-bitrate message data is encoded with a high-rate pseudo-random (PRN) sequence that is different for each satellite. The receiver must be aware of the PRN codes for each satellite to reconstruct the actual message data. The C/A code, for civilian use, transmits data at 1.023 million chips per second, whereas the P code, for U.S. military use, transmits at 10.23 million chips per second. The actual internal reference of the satellites is 10.22999999543MHz to compensate for relativistic effects[74] [75] that make observers on Earth perceive a different time reference with respect to the transmitters in orbit.

The L1 carrier is modulated by both the C/A and P codes, while the L2 carrier is only modulated by the P code.[76] The P code can be encrypted as a so-called P(Y) code that is only available to military equipment with a proper decryption key. Both the C/A and P(Y) codes impart the precise time-of-day to the user.

The L3 signal at a frequency of 1.38105 GHz is used by the United States Nuclear Detonation (NUDET) Detection System (USNDS) to detect, locate, and report nuclear detonations (NUDETs) in the Earth's atmosphere and near space.[77] One usage is the enforcement of nuclear test ban treaties.

The L4 band at 1.379913 GHz is being studied for additional ionospheric correction.[citation needed]

The L5 frequency band at 1.17645 GHz was added in the process of GPS modernization. This frequency falls into an internationally protected range for aeronautical navigation, promising little or no interference under all circumstances. The first Block IIF satellite that would provide this signal is set to be launched in 2009.[78] The L5 consists of two carrier components that are in phase quadrature with each other. Each carrier component is bi-phase shift key (BPSK) modulated by a separate bit train. "L5, the third civil GPS signal, will eventually support safety-of-life applications for aviation and provide improved availability and accuracy." [79]

A conditional waiver has recently been granted to LightSquared to operate a terrestrial broadband service near the L1 band. Although LightSquared had applied for a license to operate in the 1525 to 1559 band as early as 2003 and it was put out for public comment, the FCC asked LightSquared to form a study group with the GPS community to test GPS receivers and identify issue that might arise due to the larger signal power from the LightSquared terrestrial network. The GPS community had not objected to the LightSquared (formerly MSV and SkyTerra) applications until November 2010, when LightSquared applied for a modification to its Ancillary Terrestrial Component (ATC) authorization. This filing (SAT-MOD-20101118-00239) amounted to a request to run several orders of magnitude more power in the same frequency band for terrestrial base stations, essentially repurposing what was supposed to be a "quiet neighborhood" for signals from space as the equivalent of a cellular network. Testing in the first half of 2011 has demonstrated that the impact of the lower 10 MHz of spectrum is minimal to GPS devices (less than 1% of the total GPS devices are affected). The upper 10 MHz intended for use by LightSquared may have some impact on GPS devices. There is some concern that this will seriously degrade the GPS signal for many consumer uses.[80][81] Aviation Week magazine reports that the latest testing (June 2011) confirms "significant jamming" of GPS by LightSquared's system.[82]

Demodulation and decoding[link]

Demodulating and Decoding GPS Satellite Signals using the Coarse/Acquisition Gold code.

Because all of the satellite signals are modulated onto the same L1 carrier frequency, the signals must be separated after demodulation. This is done by assigning each satellite a unique binary sequence known as a Gold code. The signals are decoded after demodulation using addition of the Gold codes corresponding to the satellites monitored by the receiver.[83][84]

If the almanac information has previously been acquired, the receiver picks the satellites to listen for by their PRNs, unique numbers in the range 1 through 32. If the almanac information is not in memory, the receiver enters a search mode until a lock is obtained on one of the satellites. To obtain a lock, it is necessary that there be an unobstructed line of sight from the receiver to the satellite. The receiver can then acquire the almanac and determine the satellites it should listen for. As it detects each satellite's signal, it identifies it by its distinct C/A code pattern. There can be a delay of up to 30 seconds before the first estimate of position because of the need to read the ephemeris data.

Processing of the navigation message enables the determination of the time of transmission and the satellite position at this time. For more information see Demodulation and Decoding, Advanced.

Navigation equations[link]

The receiver uses messages received from satellites to determine the satellite positions and time sent. The x, y, and z components of satellite position and the time sent are designated as [xi, yi, zi, ti] where the subscript i denotes the satellite and has the value 1, 2, ..., n, where Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): n \ge 4.

 When the time of message reception indicated by the on-board clock is Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \, t_\text{r}

, the message's transit time is Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \, t_\text{r} + b - t_i

where Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \, b 
is clock bias. Assuming the message traveled at the speed of light (c) the distance traveled is (tr + b − ti)c. Knowing the distance from receiver to satellite and the satellite's position implies that the receiver is on the surface of a sphere centered at the satellite's position. Thus the receiver is at or near the intersection of the surfaces of the spheres. In the ideal case of no errors, the receiver is at the intersection of the surfaces of the spheres.

The clock error or bias, b , is the amount that the receiver's clock is off. The receiver has four unknowns, the three components of GPS receiver position and the clock bias [x, y, z, b]. The equations of the sphere surfaces are given by:

Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): (x-x_i)^2 + (y-y_i)^2 + (z-z_i)^2 = \bigl([ t_\text{r} + b - t_i]c\bigr)^2, \; i=1,2,\dots,n

or in terms of pseudoranges, Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): p_i = \left ( t_\text{r} - t_i \right )c , as

Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): p_i = \sqrt{(x-x_i)^2 + (y-y_i)^2 + (z-z_i)^2}- bc, \;i=1,2,...,n
.

These equations can be solved by algebraic or numerical methods.

Bancroft's method[link]

Bancroft's method involves an algebraic as opposed to numerical method and can be used for the case of four satellites or for the case of more than four satellites.[85][86] If there are four satellites then Bancroft's method provides one or two solutions for the four unknowns. If there are more than four satellites then Bancroft's method provides the solution which minimizes the sum of the squares of the errors for the over determined system.

Trilateration[link]

The receiver can use trilateration [87][88] and one dimensional numerical root finding.[89] Satellite position and pseudorange determines a sphere centered on the satellite with radius equal to the pseudorange. Trilateration is used to estimate receiver position based on the intersection of three sphere surfaces so determined. In the usual case of two intersections of three sphere surfaces, the point nearest the surface of the sphere corresponding to the fourth satellite is chosen. Let d denote the signed distance from the current estimate of receiver position to the sphere around the fourth satellite. The notation, d(correction) denotes this as a function of the clock correction. The problem is to determine the correction such that d(correction) = 0. This is the familiar problem of finding the zeroes of a one dimensional non-linear function of a scalar variable. Iterative numerical methods, such as those found in the chapter on root finding in Numerical Recipes can solve this type of problem.[89]

Multidimensional Newton-Raphson calculations[link]

Alternatively, multidimensional root finding method such as Newton-Raphson method can be used.[89] The approach is to linearize around an approximate solution, say Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \left [x^{(k)}, y ^{(k)}, z^{(k)}, b^{(k)}\right ]

from iteration k, then solve the linear equations derived from the quadratic equations above to obtain Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \left [x^{(k+1)}, y^{(k+1)}, z^{(k+1)}, b^{(k+1)}\right ]

. Although there is no guarantee that the method always converges due to the fact that multidimensional roots cannot be bounded, when a neighborhood containing a solution is known as is usually the case for GPS, it is quite likely that a solution will be found.[89] It has been shown[90] that results are comparable in accuracy to those of the Bancroft's method.

Additional methods for more than four satellites[link]

When more than four satellites are available, the calculation can use the four best or more than four, considering number of channels, processing capability, and geometric dilution of precision (GDOP). Using more than four is an over-determined system of equations with no unique solution, which must be solved by least-squares or a similar technique.[86] If all visible satellites are used, the results are as good as or better than using the four best. Errors can be estimated through the residuals. With each combination of four or more satellites, a GDOP factor can be calculated, based on the relative sky directions of the satellites used.[91] As more satellites are picked up, pseudoranges from various 4-way combinations can be processed to add more estimates to the location and clock offset. The receiver then takes the weighted average of these positions and clock offsets. After the final location and time are calculated, the location is expressed in a specific coordinate system such as latitude and longitude, using the WGS 84 geodetic datum or a country-specific system.[92]

Error sources and analysis[link]

GPS error analysis which is found in Error analysis for the Global Positioning System is an important aspect for determining what errors and their magnitude are to be expected. GPS errors are affected by geometric dilution of precision and depend on signal arrival time errors, numerical errors, atmospherics effects, ephemeris errors, multipath errors and other effects. Variability in solar radiation pressure[93] has an indirect effect on GPS accuracy due to its effect on ephemeris errors.

Accuracy enhancement and surveying[link]

Augmentation[link]

Integrating external information into the calculation process can materially improve accuracy. Such augmentation systems are generally named or described based on how the information arrives. Some systems transmit additional error information (such as clock drift, ephemera, or ionospheric delay), others characterize prior errors, while a third group provides additional navigational or vehicle information.

Examples of augmentation systems include the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS), European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS), Differential GPS, Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) and Assisted GPS.

Precise monitoring[link]

Accuracy can be improved through precise monitoring and measurement of existing GPS signals in additional or alternate ways.

The largest remaining error is usually the unpredictable delay through the ionosphere. The spacecraft broadcast ionospheric model parameters, but errors remain. This is one reason GPS spacecraft transmit on at least two frequencies, L1 and L2. Ionospheric delay is a well-defined function of frequency and the total electron content (TEC) along the path, so measuring the arrival time difference between the frequencies determines TEC and thus the precise ionospheric delay at each frequency.

Military receivers can decode the P(Y)-code transmitted on both L1 and L2. Without decryption keys, it is still possible to use a codeless technique to compare the P(Y) codes on L1 and L2 to gain much of the same error information. However, this technique is slow, so it is currently available only on specialized surveying equipment. In the future, additional civilian codes are expected to be transmitted on the L2 and L5 frequencies (see GPS modernization). Then all users will be able to perform dual-frequency measurements and directly compute ionospheric delay errors.

A second form of precise monitoring is called Carrier-Phase Enhancement (CPGPS). This corrects the error that arises because the pulse transition of the PRN is not instantaneous, and thus the correlation (satellite-receiver sequence matching) operation is imperfect. CPGPS uses the L1 carrier wave, which has a period of Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \frac{1\,\mathrm{s}}{1575.42 \times 10^6} = 0.63475\,\mathrm{ns} \approx 1\, \mathrm{ns} \ , which is about one-thousandth of the C/A Gold code bit period of Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \frac{1\, \mathrm{s}}{1023 \times 10^3} = 977.5 \, \mathrm{ns} \approx 1000 \, \mathrm{ns} \ , to act as an additional clock signal and resolve the uncertainty. The phase difference error in the normal GPS amounts to 2–3 metres (6.6–9.8 ft) of ambiguity. CPGPS working to within 1% of perfect transition reduces this error to 3 centimetres (1.2 in) of ambiguity. By eliminating this error source, CPGPS coupled with DGPS normally realizes between 20–30 centimetres (7.9–12 in) of absolute accuracy.

Relative Kinematic Positioning (RKP) is a third alternative for a precise GPS-based positioning system. In this approach, determination of range signal can be resolved to a precision of less than 10 centimetres (3.9 in). This is done by resolving the number of cycles that the signal is transmitted and received by the receiver by using a combination of differential GPS (DGPS) correction data, transmitting GPS signal phase information and ambiguity resolution techniques via statistical tests—possibly with processing in real-time (real-time kinematic positioning, RTK).

[edit] Timekeeping

Timekeeping and leap seconds[link]

While most clocks are synchronized to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), the atomic clocks on the satellites are set to GPS time (GPST; see the page of United States Naval Observatory). The difference is that GPS time is not corrected to match the rotation of the Earth, so it does not contain leap seconds or other corrections that are periodically added to UTC. GPS time was set to match Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) in 1980, but has since diverged. The lack of corrections means that GPS time remains at a constant offset with International Atomic Time (TAI) (TAI – GPS = 19 seconds). Periodic corrections are performed on the on-board clocks to keep them synchronized with ground clocks.[94]

The GPS navigation message includes the difference between GPS time and UTC. As of 2011, GPS time is 15 seconds ahead of UTC because of the leap second added to UTC December 31, 2008. Receivers subtract this offset from GPS time to calculate UTC and specific timezone values. New GPS units may not show the correct UTC time until after receiving the UTC offset message. The GPS-UTC offset field can accommodate 255 leap seconds (eight bits) that, given the current period of the Earth's rotation (with one leap second introduced approximately every 18 months), should be sufficient to last until approximately the year 2300.

Timekeeping accuracy[link]

GPS time is accurate to about 14 nanoseconds.[95]

Timekeeping format[link]

As opposed to the year, month, and day format of the Gregorian calendar, the GPS date is expressed as a week number and a seconds-into-week number. The week number is transmitted as a ten-bit field in the C/A and P(Y) navigation messages, and so it becomes zero again every 1,024 weeks (19.6 years). GPS week zero started at 00:00:00 UTC (00:00:19 TAI) on January 6, 1980, and the week number became zero again for the first time at 23:59:47 UTC on August 21, 1999 (00:00:19 TAI on August 22, 1999). To determine the current Gregorian date, a GPS receiver must be provided with the approximate date (to within 3,584 days) to correctly translate the GPS date signal. To address this concern the modernized GPS navigation message uses a 13-bit field that only repeats every 8,192 weeks (157 years), thus lasting until the year 2137 (157 years after GPS week zero).

Carrier phase tracking (surveying)[link]

Another method that is used in surveying applications is carrier phase tracking. The period of the carrier frequency multiplied by the speed of light gives the wavelength, which is about 0.19 meters for the L1 carrier. Accuracy within 1% of wavelength in detecting the leading edge reduces this component of pseudorange error to as little as 2 millimeters. This compares to 3 meters for the C/A code and 0.3 meters for the P code.

However, 2 millimeter accuracy requires measuring the total phase—the number of waves multiplied by the wavelength plus the fractional wavelength, which requires specially equipped receivers. This method has many surveying applications.

Triple differencing followed by numerical root finding, and a mathematical technique called least squares can estimate the position of one receiver given the position of another. First, compute the difference between satellites, then between receivers, and finally between epochs. Other orders of taking differences are equally valid. Detailed discussion of the errors is omitted.

The satellite carrier total phase can be measured with ambiguity as to the number of cycles. Let Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \phi(r_i, s_j, t_k)

denote the phase of the carrier of satellite j measured by receiver i at time Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \ t_k 

. This notation shows the meaning of the subscripts i, j, and k. The receiver (r), satellite (s), and time (t) come in alphabetical order as arguments of Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \phi

and to balance readability and conciseness, let Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \phi_{i,j,k} = \phi(r_i, s_j, t_k) 
be  a concise abbreviation. Also we define three functions, :Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \Delta^r, \Delta^s, \Delta^t 

, which return differences between receivers, satellites, and time points, respectively. Each function has variables with three subscripts as its arguments. These three functions are defined below. If Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \alpha_{i,j,k}

is a function of the three integer arguments, i, j, and k then it is a valid argument for the functions, :Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \Delta^r, \Delta^s, \Delta^t 

, with the values defined as

Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \Delta^r(\alpha_{i,j,k}) = \alpha_{i+1,j,k} - \alpha_{i,j,k}

,

Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \Delta^s(\alpha_{i,j,k}) = \alpha_{i,j+1,k} - \alpha_{i,j,k}

, and

Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \Delta^t(\alpha_{i,j,k}) = \alpha_{i,j,k+1} - \alpha_{i,j,k}

 .

Also if Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \alpha_{i,j,k}\ and\ \beta_{l,m,n}

are valid arguments for the three functions and a and b are constants then

Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ ( a\ \alpha_{i,j,k} + b\ \beta_{l,m,n} )

is a valid argument with values defined as
Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \Delta^r(a\ \alpha_{i,j,k} + b\ \beta_{l,m,n}) = a \ \Delta^r(\alpha_{i,j,k}) + b \ \Delta^r(\beta_{l,m,n})

,

Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \Delta^s(a\ \alpha_{i,j,k} + b\ \beta_{l,m,n} )= a \ \Delta^s(\alpha_{i,j,k}) + b \ \Delta^s(\beta_{l,m,n})

, and

Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \Delta^t(a\ \alpha_{i,j,k} + b\ \beta_{l,m,n} )= a \ \Delta^t(\alpha_{i,j,k}) + b \ \Delta^t(\beta_{l,m,n})

 .

Receiver clock errors can be approximately eliminated by differencing the phases measured from satellite 1 with that from satellite 2 at the same epoch.[96] This difference is designated as Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \Delta^s(\phi_{1,1,1}) = \phi_{1,2,1} - \phi_{1,1,1}


Double differencing[97] computes the difference of receiver 1's satellite difference from that of receiver 2. This approximately eliminates satellite clock errors. This double difference is:

Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \begin{align} \Delta^r(\Delta^s(\phi_{1,1,1}))\,&=\,\Delta^r(\phi_{1,2,1} - \phi_{1,1,1}) &=\,\Delta^r(\phi_{1,2,1}) - \Delta^r(\phi_{1,1,1}) &=\,(\phi_{2,2,1} - \phi_{1,2,1}) - (\phi_{2,1,1} - \phi_{1,1,1}) \end{align}


Triple differencing[98] subtracts the receiver difference from time 1 from that of time 2. This eliminates the ambiguity associated with the integral number of wave lengths in carrier phase provided this ambiguity does not change with time. Thus the triple difference result eliminates practically all clock bias errors and the integer ambiguity. Atmospheric delay and satellite ephemeris errors have been significantly reduced. This triple difference is:

Failed to parse (Missing texvc executable; please see math/README to configure.): \ \Delta^t(\Delta^r(\Delta^s(\phi_{1,1,1})))


Triple difference results can be used to estimate unknown variables. For example if the position of receiver 1 is known but the position of receiver 2 unknown, it may be possible to estimate the position of receiver 2 using numerical root finding and least squares. Triple difference results for three independent time pairs quite possibly will be sufficient to solve for receiver 2's three position components. This may require the use of a numerical procedure.[99][100] An approximation of receiver 2's position is required to use such a numerical method. This initial value can probably be provided from the navigation message and the intersection of sphere surfaces. Such a reasonable estimate can be key to successful multidimensional root finding. Iterating from three time pairs and a fairly good initial value produces one observed triple difference result for receiver 2's position. Processing additional time pairs can improve accuracy, overdetermining the answer with multiple solutions. Least squares can estimate an overdetermined system. Least squares determines the position of receiver 2 which best fits the observed triple difference results for receiver 2 positions under the criterion of minimizing the sum of the squares.

Regulatory spectrum issues concerning GPS receivers[link]

In the United States, GPS receivers are regulated under the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Part 15 rules. As indicated in the manuals of GPS-enabled devices sold in the United States, as a Part 15 device, it "must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation."[101] With respect to GPS devices in particular, the FCC states that GPS receiver manufacturers, "must use receivers that reasonably discriminate against reception of signals outside their allocated spectrum."[102]

The spectrum allocated for GPS L1 use by the FCC is 1559 to 1610 MHz.[103] Since 1996, the FCC has authorized licensed use of the spectrum neighboring the GPS band of 1525 to 1559 MHz to the Virginia company LightSquared. On March 1, 2001, the FCC received an application from LightSquared's predecessor, Motient Services to use their allocated frequencies for an integrated satellite-terrestrial service.[104] In 2002, the U.S. GPS Industry Council came to an out-of-band-emissions (OOBE) agreement with LightSquared to prevent transmissions from LightSquared's ground-based stations from emitting transmissions into the neighboring GPS band of 1559 to 1610 MHz.[105] In 2004, the FCC adopted the OOBE agreement in its authorization for LightSquared to deploy a ground-based network that used its allocated frequencies of 1525 to 1559 MHz.[106] This authorization was reviewed and approved by the U.S. Interdepartment Radio Advisory Committee, which includes the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Federal Aviation Administration, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Interior, and Transportation.[107]

In January 2011, the FCC conditionally authorized LightSquared's wholesale customers, such as Best Buy, Sharp, and C Spire, to be able to only purchase an integrated satellite-ground-based service from LightSquared and re-sell that integrated service on devices that are equipped to only use the ground-based signal using LightSquared's allocated frequencies of 1525 to 1559 MHz.[108] In December 2010, GPS receiver manufacturers expressed concerns to the FCC that LightSquared's signal would interfere with GPS receiver devices[109] although the FCC's policy considerations leading up to the January 2011 order did not pertain to any proposed changes to the maximum number of ground-based LightSquared stations or the maximum power at which these stations could operate. The January 2011 order makes final authorization contingent upon studies of GPS interference issues carried out by a LightSquared led working group along with GPS industry and Federal agency participation.

GPS receiver manufacturers design GPS receivers to use spectrum beyond the GPS-allocated band. In some cases, GPS receivers are designed to use up to 400 MHz of spectrum in either direction of the L1 frequency of 1575.42 MHz.[110] However, as regulated under the FCC's Part 15 rules, GPS receivers are not warranted protection from signals outside GPS-allocated spectrum.[102]

The FCC adopted rules in February 2003 that allowed Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) licensees such as LightSquared to construct ground-based towers in their licensed spectrum to "promote more efficient use of terrestrial wireless spectrum."[111] In July 2010, the FCC stated that it expected LightSquared to use its authority to offer an integrated satellite-terrestrial service to "provide mobile broadband services similar to those provided by terrestrial mobile providers and enhance competition in the mobile broadband sector."[112] However, GPS receiver manufacturers have argued that LightSquared's licensed spectrum of 1525 to 1559 MHz was never envisioned as being used for high-speed wireless broadband although there is no regulatory or legal backing of this claim.[113] To build public support of efforts to reverse the 2004 FCC authorization of LightSquared's network, GPS receiver manufacturer Trimble Navigation Ltd. formed the "Coalition To Save Our GPS."[114]

The FCC and LightSquared have each made public commitments to solve the GPS interference issue before the network is allowed to operate.[115][116] However, according to Chris Dancy of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, airline pilots with the type of systems that would be affected "may go off course and not even realize it."[117] The problems could also affect the Federal Aviation Administration upgrade to the air traffic control system, United States Defense Department guidance, and local emergency services including 911.[117]

On February 14, 2012, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) moved to bar LightSquared's planned national broadband network after being informed by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), "the federal agency that coordinates spectrum uses for the military and other federal government entities," that "there is no practical way to mitigate potential interference at this time."[118][119] LightSquared is challenging the FCC's action.

Other systems[link]

Comparison of GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and Compass (medium earth orbit) satellite navigation system orbits with the International Space Station, Hubble Space Telescope and Iridium constellation orbits, Geostationary Earth Orbit, and the nominal size of the Earth. The Moon's orbit is 9.1 times larger (in radius and length) than geostationary orbit.[120]

Other satellite navigation systems in use or various states of development include:

  • GLONASS – Russia's global navigation system. Fully operational worldwide.
  • Galileo – a global system being developed by the European Union and other partner countries, planned to be operational by 2014
  • Beidou – People's Republic of China's regional system, currently limited to Asia and the West Pacific[121]
  • COMPASS – People's Republic of China's global system, planned to be operational by 2020[122][123]
  • IRNSS – India's regional navigation system, planned to be operational by 2012, covering India and Northern Indian Ocean[124]
  • QZSS – Japanese regional system covering Asia and Oceania


See also[link]

References[link]

  1. ^ National Research Council (U.S.). Committee on the Future of the Global Positioning System; National Academy of Public Administration (1995). The global positioning system: a shared national asset: recommendations for technical improvements and enhancements. National Academies Press. p. 16. ISBN 0-309-05283-1. http://books.google.com/books?id=FAHk65slfY4C. , Chapter 1, p. 16
  2. ^ a b "Factsheets : GPS Advanced Control Segment (OCX)". Losangeles.af.mil. 2011-10-25. http://www.losangeles.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=18676. Retrieved 2011-11-06. 
  3. ^ Astronautica Acta II, 25 (1956)
  4. ^ "GPS and Relativity". Astronomy.ohio-state.edu. http://www.astronomy.ohio-state.edu/~pogge/Ast162/Unit5/gps.html. Retrieved 2011-11-06. 
  5. ^ Guier, William H.; Weiffenbach, George C. (1997). "Genesis of Satellite Navigation". John Hopkins APL Technical Digest 19 (1): pp. 178–181. http://www.jhuapl.edu/techdigest/td/td1901/guier.pdf. 
  6. ^ Steven Johnson (2010), Where good ideas come from, the natural history of innovation, New York: Riverhead Books 
  7. ^ Jerry Proc. "Omega". Jproc.ca. http://www.jproc.ca/hyperbolic/omega.html. Retrieved 2009-12-08. 
  8. ^ "Why Did the Department of Defense Develop GPS?". Trimble Navigation Ltd. Archived from the original on 2007-10-18. http://web.archive.org/web/20071018151253/http://www.trimble.com/gps/whygps.shtml#0. Retrieved 2010-01-13. 
  9. ^ "Charting a Course Toward Global Navigation". The Aerospace Corporation. http://www.aero.org/publications/crosslink/summer2002/01.html. Retrieved 2010-01-14. 
  10. ^ "A Guide To The Global Positioning System (GPS) — GPS Timeline". Radio Shack. http://support.radioshack.com/support_tutorials/gps/gps_tmline.htm. Retrieved 2010-01-14. 
  11. ^ Michael Russell Rip, James M. Hasik (2002). The Precision Revolution: GPS and the Future of Aerial Warfare. Naval Institute Press. p. 65. ISBN 1-55750-973-5. http://books.google.com/?id=mB9W3H90KDUC. Retrieved 2010-01-14. 
  12. ^ "ICAO Completes Fact-Finding Investigation". International Civil Aviation Organization. http://www.icao.int/cgi/goto_m.pl?icao/en/trivia/kal_flight_007.htm. Retrieved 2008-09-15. 
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  14. ^ "GPS & Selective Availability Q&A". [1]. http://ngs.woc.noaa.gov/FGCS/info/sans_SA/docs/GPS_SA_Event_QAs.pdf. Retrieved 2010-05-28. 
  15. ^ "GPS Modernization Fact Sheet". U.S. Air Force. http://www.pnt.gov/public/docs/2006/modernization.pdf. 
  16. ^ GPS Wing Reaches GPS III IBR Milestone in InsideGNSS November 10, 2008
  17. ^ "GPS almanacs". Navcen.uscg.gov. http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=gpsAlmanacs. Retrieved 2010-10-15. 
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  19. ^ Michael Russell Rip, James M. Hasik (2002). The Precision Revolution: GPS and the Future of Aerial Warfare. Naval Institute Press. ISBN 1-55750-973-5. http://books.google.com/?id=_wpUAAAAMAAJ. Retrieved 2008-05-25. 
  20. ^ "AF Space Command Chronology". USAF Space Command. http://www.afspc.af.mil/heritage/chronology.asp. Retrieved 20 June 2011. 
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  22. ^ The Global Positioning System: Assessing National Policies, p.245. RAND corporation
  23. ^ a b "USNO NAVSTAR Global Positioning System". U.S. Naval Observatory. http://tycho.usno.navy.mil/gpsinfo.html. Retrieved 2011-01-07. 
  24. ^ National Archives and Records Administration. U.S. Global Positioning System Policy. March 29, 1996.
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  27. ^ This story was written by 010907 (2007-09-17). "losangeles.af.mil". losangeles.af.mil. http://www.losangeles.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123068412. Retrieved 2010-10-15. 
  28. ^ Johnson, Bobbie (May 19, 2009). "GPS system 'close to breakdown'". The Guardian (London). http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2009/may/19/gps-close-to-breakdown. Retrieved 2009-12-08. 
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  30. ^ "Air Force GPS Problem: Glitch Shows How Much U.S. Military Relies On GPS". Huffingtonpost.comm. 2010-06-01. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/06/01/air-force-gps-problem-gli_n_595727.html. Retrieved 2010-10-15. 
  31. ^ "Raytheon Awarded Next-Generation Control Segment Contract (OCX)". http://www.gpsworld.com/gnss-system/gps-modernization/news/raytheon-awarded-next-generation-control-segment-contract-ocx-960. Retrieved 2010-02-25. 
  32. ^ "United States Naval Observatory (USNO) GPS Constellation Status". ftp://tycho.usno.navy.mil/pub/gps/gpstd.txt. Retrieved 2009-10-13. 
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  37. ^ GPS signals travel at the speed of light, so computing the distance for a given elapsed time is almost a straightforward calculation. However, the speed of light varies slightly between the partial vacuum of space and the atmosphere. A receiver can approximate these effects and produce a reasonable estimate. Once a rough position is determined, some receivers carefully compute the amount of atmosphere the signal traveled through and adjust the distance accordingly.
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  41. ^ It is also possible for a circle and a spherical surface to intersect at zero points, one point, or in the very special case where the centers of the three spheres are co-linear (i.e., all three on the same straight line) the sphere surface could intersect the entire circumference of the circle.
  42. ^ The two intersections are symmetrical about the plane containing the three satellites. Excluding the exceptional case when the three satellites are all in a plane containing the center of the earth, one intersection will be nearer the earth than the other.
  43. ^ John Pike. "GPS III Operational Control Segment (OCX)". Globalsecurity.org. http://www.globalsecurity.org/space/systems/gps_3-ocx.htm. Retrieved 2009-12-08. 
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  45. ^ Daly, P.. "Navstar GPS and GLONASS: global satellite navigation systems". IEEE. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/iel1/2219/7072/00285510.pdf?arnumber=285510. 
  46. ^ Dana, Peter H. (1996-08-08). "GPS Orbital Planes" (GIF). http://www.colorado.edu/geography/gcraft/notes/gps/gif/oplanes.gif. 
  47. ^ What the Global Positioning System Tells Us about Relativity. Retrieved January 2, 2007.
  48. ^ GPS Overview from the NAVSTAR Joint Program Office. Retrieved December 15, 2006.
  49. ^ [2] Retrieved October 27, 2011
  50. ^ "USCG Navcen: GPS Frequently Asked Questions". http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=gpsFaq. Retrieved 2007-01-31. 
  51. ^ Agnew, D.C. and Larson, K.M. (2007). "Finding the repeat times of the GPS constellation". GPS Solutions (Springer) 11 (1): 71–76. DOI:10.1007/s10291-006-0038-4.  This article from author's web site, with minor correction.
  52. ^ Tis-pf-nisws. "Nanu 2008030". http://cgls.uscg.mil/pipermail/gps/2008-March/001625.html. 
  53. ^ Massatt, Paul; Wayne Brady (Summer 2002). "Optimizing performance through constellation management". Crosslink: 17–21. http://www.aero.org/publications/crosslink/summer2002/index.html. 
  54. ^ United States Coast Guard General GPS News 9–9–05
  55. ^ USNO NAVSTAR Global Positioning System. Retrieved May 14, 2006.
  56. ^ "GPS III Operational Control Segment (OCX)". GlobalSecurity.org. http://www.globalsecurity.org/space/systems/gps_3-ocx.htm. 
  57. ^ "The USA’s GPS-III Satellites". Defense Industry Daily. 2011-10-13. http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/The-USAs-GPS-III-Satellites-04900/. 
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  59. ^ Though there are many receiver manufacturers, they almost all use one of the chipsets produced for this purpose. An example: "GPS Receiver Chip Performance Survey". GPS Technology Reviews. http://gpstekreviews.com/2007/04/14/gps-receiver-chip-performance-survey/. 
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  63. ^ Arms Control Association.Missile Technology Control Regime. Retrieved May 17, 2006.
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  83. ^ "GPS Almanacs, NANUS, and Ops Advisories (including archives)". GPS Almanac Information. United States Coast Guard. http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=gpsAlmanacs. Retrieved 2009-09-09. 
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  93. ^ IPN Progess Report 42-159 (2004)
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  99. ^ chapter on root finding and nonlinear sets of equations
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  103. ^ "Federal Communications Commission Table of Frequency Allocations". FCC.gov. 18 November 2011. http://transition.fcc.gov/oet/spectrum/table/fcctable.pdf. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
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  105. ^ "U.S. GPS Industry Council Petition to the FCC to adopt OOBE limits jointly proposed by MSV and the Industry Council". FCC.gov. 4 September 2003. http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/ecfs/document/view?id=6515082621. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
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  108. ^ "FCC Order, Granted LightSquared Subsidiary LLC, a Mobile Satellite Service licensee in the L-Band, a conditional waiver of the Ancillary Terrestrial Component "integrated service" rule". Federal Communications Commission. FCC.Gov. 26 January 2011. http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-11-133A1.pdf. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
  109. ^ "Data Shows Disastrous GPS Jamming from FCC-Approved Broadcaster". gpsworld.com. 1 February 2011. http://www.gpsworld.com/gnss-system/news/data-shows-disastrous-gps-jamming-fcc-approved-broadcaster-11029. Retrieved 10 February 2011. 
  110. ^ "Javad Ashjaee GPS World webinar". gpsworld.com. 8 December 2011. http://www.gpsworld.com/gnss-system/news/javad-ashjaee-discuss-javad-gnss-lightsquared-tech-december-8-webinar-12337. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
  111. ^ "FCC Order permitting mobile satellite services providers to provide an ancillary terrestrial component (ATC) to their satellite systems". Federal Communications Commission. FCC.gov. 2003-02-10. http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-03-15A1.pdf. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
  112. ^ "Federal Communications Commission Fixed and Mobile Services in the Mobile Satellite Service". Federal Communications Commission. FCC.gov. 2010-07-15. http://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2010/08/16/2010-19824/fixed-and-mobile-services-in-the-mobile-satellite-service#p-31. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
  113. ^ http://saveourgps.org/pdf/SIS_DOD_Response_Statement_08122011.pdf
  114. ^ "Coalition to Save Our GPS". Saveourgps.org. http://saveourgps.org/. Retrieved 2011-11-06. 
  115. ^ Jeff Carlisle (23 June 2011). "Testimony of Jeff Carlisle, LightSquared Executive Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Public Policy to U.S. House Subcommittee on Aviation and Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation". http://ssv.cachefly.net/lightsquared/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/LSQ-Testimony-Package.pdf. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
  116. ^ Julius Genachowski (31 May 2011). "FCC Chairman Genachowski Letter to Senator Charles Grassley". http://www.lightsquared.com/documents/FCC%20Julius%20Genachowski%20letter%20to%20Senator%20Grassley%20-%20May%2031,%202011.pdf. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
  117. ^ a b Tessler, Joelle (2011-04-07). "Internet network may jam GPS in cars, jets". The Sun News. http://www.thesunnews.com/2011/04/07/2085752/internet-network-may-jam-gps-in.html. Retrieved 2011-04-07. 
  118. ^ FCC press release "" Spokesperson Statement on NTIA Letter--LightSquared and GPS " February 14, 2012
  119. ^ Paul Riegler, FBT. "FCC Bars LightSquared Broadband Network Plan." February 14, 2012. Retrieved February 14, 2012.
  120. ^ Orbital periods and speeds are calculated using the relations 4π²R³ = T²GM and V²R = GM, where R = radius of orbit in metres, T = orbital period in seconds, V = orbital speed in m/s, G = gravitational constant ≈ 6.673×10−11 Nm²/kg², M = mass of Earth ≈ 5.98×1024 kg.
  121. ^ Beidou coverage
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  123. ^ Levin, Dan (2009-03-23). "Chinese Square Off With Europe in Space". China: NYTimes.com. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/23/technology/23iht-galileo23.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=chinese%20europe%20galileo&st=cse. Retrieved 2011-11-06. 
  124. ^ "ASM, News on GIS, GNSS, spatial information, remote sensing, mapping and surveying technologies for Asia". Asmmag.com. http://www.asmmag.com/news/india-to-launch-1st-irnss-satellite-by-december. Retrieved 2009-10-13. [dead link]

Further reading[link]

External links[link]

http://wn.com/Global_Positioning_System

Related pages:

http://ru.wn.com/GPS

http://fr.wn.com/Global Positioning System

http://de.wn.com/Global Positioning System

http://it.wn.com/Sistema di Posizionamento Globale

http://es.wn.com/Sistema de posicionamiento global




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