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Since 1978 which was the first experimental satellite launched for the purpose of providing a means for navigation around the world, we now have at least two dozen GPS satellites in a medium Earth orbit.
Many applications for GPS systems would include hikers, bicycles, heavy equipment, surveying, mapping, precise time references, mobile satellite communications, emergency and location based services, and location based games, aircraft passengers, GPS tracking, weather predictions, photograph annotations and more.

They were first used for map-making and land surveying as well as a precise time reference which has been used for many different applications such as a scientific study of earthquakes and synchronized telecommunications.

To date there are 29 "broadcasting" satellites in the same constellation as the GPS units which improves the precise calculations for reliability and availability of the system should some of these satellites fail.

Many of the applications for GPS were first and foremost for government use such as the military which made for accurate targeting of enemy weapons. They were also used for detecting nuclear detonations that greatly enhanced our ability to monitor countries that were interested in obtaining nuclear weapons.

The use for automobiles has been indispensable for many travelers who otherwise may not be familiar with areas that are somewhat un-detailed with conventional maps.
The use for Aircraft provided accuracy for final approach and landing operations as well as being able to compute wind speed while aloft, and also glide paths for alternate airports and mountain passes for aiding a route decision during cross-country flights.

GPS has been a major plus for the boating and cruise ship industry as well. Some of the functions for the maritime GPS units can provide man overboard information to quickly locate a person who may have fallen overboard thereby making rescues easier. GPS also improves the security of the shipping industry by enabling an automatic Identification system.

GPS can even be used for the visually impaired which was introduced in the late 80s which would give the precise position of the blind pedestrian at any given time, and allows a blind person to have access to information for bus and train timetables which helps them plan their routes in advance.

Learn more about this author, Richard Serra.
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