The U.S. Department of Defense has placed a network of 24 satellites into orbit above the earth. These satellites make up a satellite-based navigation system known as the Global Positioning System (GPS). This system was originally intended for military applications, but in the 1980s, the government made it available for civilian use. The GPS transmits signal information to earth 24 hours a day, in any weather, and anywhere in the world. The GPS receivers take this information and calculate the user's exact location and display it on the unit's map. These receivers are extremely accurate and some can actually pinpoint your location within an average of three meters.

This GPS has become a mainstay of worldwide transportation in the air, on the ground, and in the water. Why do you need it? To find your way. We recently went to a small town for a meeting only to find the street signs were missing due to road construction. After driving up and down the highway for over 30 minutes and asking directions from other motorist, we gave up and drove over 2 hours home. Some of our friends who already had a GPS found their way, because the system told them where to turn.

It is really pretty amazing. After you have put in your beginning and ending locations this receiver will actually tell you when to turn. It plots your movement on a map and you can see exactly where you are every minute. They can even be used when hiking or boating.

I am a mother of two daughters and one son, with eleven grandchildren. As a "baby boomer" I am exploring today's technological wonders and how we benefit from them. At Sarah's Technology Center, it is my hope to describe the wonders so that others can understand them. Visit http://www.sarahs-technology-center.blogspot.com/ today.

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