GPS and its Capabilities

Paper Summary:

In this paper, the writer notes that the global positioning system (GPS) has advanced vastly since the first satellite was launched into space in 1978. The writer points out that originally the GPS was a project placed into orbit by the United States Department of Defense and in the 1980s the system became available for civilian use. The writer discusses that the GPS offers many positive applications such providing driving directions to devices that will save a life buried by an avalanche. The writer discusses that although the GPS has thousands of different possible applications, it is controversial in the ways it could be used. For example, privacy is jeopardized as a result of the tracking capabilities of the global positioning system. The writer concludes that the GPS definitely has its advantages and has the capabilities to save lives, however, the possible consequences of this technology should not be overlooked.

From the Paper:

" Since GPS has been allowed for civilian use, we have seen it placed in many devices. The most common devices are those for navigational purposes. Such as a device that is used in cars, boats, and aircraft. These devices tell the navigator their position at all times, and or how to get to a specific location. Another popular device used in agriculture helps to maximize crop production. The GPS device that is used during farming will tell the farmer what areas he has covered and what areas are yet to be done. The system is so advanced and accurate that it will actually auto guide that tractor in a precise path so to optimize time and coverage. There are also many hand held devices that are used by hikers to navigate trails, by snowmobilers and skiers in case of an avalanche, and by hunters who wonder deep into the woods. We also see devices now in cell phones, personal and business vehicles, on personal belongings and much more. There are now millions of devices that take advantage of the Global Positioning System and there will be millions more to be developed as time progresses."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Balough, R. C.(2008). Global Positioning System and the Internet: A Combination with Privacy Risks. Retrieved March 19, 2008, from http://www.balough.com/writings/cba_article.asp
• McCord, N. (2008, February 18). Parents can use GPS to track teen drivers. EzineArticles. Retrieved March 19, 2008, from http://ezinearticles.com/?parents-can-use-GPS-to-track-teen-drivers&id=993438
• National Academy of Sciences. (2008). The global positioning system: The role of atomic clock. Retrieved March 19, 2008, from http://www.nps.gov/gis/gps/history.html
• National Space-Based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Coordination Office. (2008). Global positioning system: serving the world. Retrieved March 19, 2008, from http://www.gps.gov/
• Rosenwald, M. (2004, November). Every step you take...every move you make...my GPS unit will: be watching you technology may be ushering in a golden age of stalking, in which predators use GPS, cellphones and other devices to track and terrorize. Popular Science, 88.

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