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The History of GPS and How Modern Travelers Use It

The History of GPS and How Modern Travelers Use It

1st Mar 2024

GPS has become a common device used by people to navigate from one place to another. Today, it's regarded as one of the most helpful, in fact essential, types of technology to have. It's included in our phones, watches, vehicles, and other devices to make sure we stay oriented to our surroundings. Have you ever wondered how GPS came to be? Let's look at a brief history of the GPS.

What Is GPS?

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. It's a type of technology that can help to track a vehicle or person's exact location, speed, and trajectory. It's used to navigate ships, airplanes, vehicles, and other things.

Who Invented GPS?

GPS technology is rarely attributed to just one inventor. According to the Aerospace Corporation, the first GPS tracking device was developed for military and intelligence applications in the 1960s. This would have been a collaborative achievement of many different individuals. It was developed within the Department of Defense and no inventor has been distinguished. However, there are certain theories and ideas of Sir Isaac Newton that helped contribute to the development of this technology.

GPS Today

The most common application of GPS technology today is within vehicle navigation systems. GPS devices combine the technology from satellites with interactive maps and travel routes programmed into devices. This creates a comprehensive and easy-to-use tool to help individuals navigate while traveling.

Voice technology was later added so that an individual could be completely guided to their destination by the voice directions being given through the device via the GPS technology. Voice technology was developed in order to make GPS navigation systems within cars safer. Older versions of the tech required the driver to look down at the device often to continue to receive instructions. The addition of the often calm voice guiding your every move has made GPS safer and more effective.

GPS For Everyone

More advanced GPS devices are often used for different industrial applications. These devices can be used on ships, heavy equipment, and other things. GPS rental makes it possible to have the navigation capabilities you need no matter what type of machine, vehicle, or craft you're using. You can rent GPS equipment for personal or industrial use.

These are just a few facts on the history of GPS. If you need to rent GPS equipment, please contact us today. We look forward to working with you.