GPS Satellite


Some tech savvy and good gameplaying can come from a judicious use of the new technology called the Global Positioning System (GPS), one of the wonder technologies unveiled to the world stage during Operation Desert Storm. The GPS traces its roots to the early 1960s. Yet it has proven to be a prototypical 1990s dual-use technology. Both military and civilian users can benefit equally from the accuracy with which the satellite-based system can locate receivers on the ground.

As currently comprised, the GPS contains 21 operating satellites and three in-orbit spares. (New satellites are currently on the drawing board.) Each satellite continuously emits a pair of high megahertz signals that constantly interact to track down ground sites. These signals also make it possible for computers to interact with each other and carry broad spectrums of audio and video information.

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