Geotechnology: GPS

Imagine that as you move you can locate your position as well as the azimuth between two locations and even how long it might take to move between the two locations. Add to that the possibility of making notes with specific reference to your travels. If this were possible, you would have a very useful tool. That is the global positioning system (GPS), or more specifically its value and usefulness. GPS receivers (sometimes called GPS navigators) can locate accurate positions anywhere on the planet.

This 2-hour interactive online course is an overview of Global Positioning Systems (GPSs) and provides many examples and factors to be considered when coupling GIS and GPS. It also outlines the relationship of GPS location to cartographic elements. There is a test at the end of this course.

At the conclusion of this course, you will:

• Know what three types of data a GPS navigator collects
• Be able to discuss the importance of mission planning, and identify three of its advantages.
• Understand the process of differential GPS using both the real-time and postprocessing methods.
• Know what a continuously operating reference station is and how it works
• Be able to name and describe the three GPS segments.
• Be familiar with the primary sources of GPS errors and how they can be managed.
• Be able to discuss issues relating to georeferencing an aerial photograph using GPS.