eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.
Map-based GPS navigational systems for automobiles continue to be popular with consumers. It offers convenience (particularly when trying to navigate in a new city). The traffic feature, which most car navigational GPS systems provide, is particularly convenient, letting a user know about accidents up ahead so they can plan appropriately. more »
The global positioning system (GPS) gives both public and private businesses the ability to locate the exact position of a building, vehicle or person. The system is based on concepts developed during World War II and the early part of the Cold War. Ground-based navigation systems and the launch of Sputnik by the Soviet Union... more »
Handheld GPS receivers are commonplace today. Most cell phones feature at least emergency GPS locating devices and the popularity of Garmin GPS receivers for recreational use has increased with the advent of geocaching. GPS devices can not only tell you where you are, but also guide you to the desired location. more »
A satellite navigational system is one that uses satellites and certain geometrical principles to determine geographical location. Common satellite navigational systems are often called Global Positioning Systems (GPS). Satellite navigational systems can be portable or fixed in place within a vehicle. They also vary significantly... more »
Much like the Internet, GPS got its start as an application mainly to be used by the U.S. military. However, the GPS market has since become one of the hottest areas of the consumer electronics market. While many understand the benefits and are naturally curious about the technology, few understand how it works, how it found its way... more »
You can now buy a GPS (Global Positioning System) navigation system that includes satellite radio. This combination may be expensive but worth it... more »
There are a number of theft prevention devices for sale that will keep your car safe from criminals. One of the less expensive devices involves a... more »
Whenever you rent a car with a navigation system, you are utilizing GPS. GPS is made possible by satellites that circle the earth and transmit... more »
A GPS satellite is a satellite used by the NAVSTAR Global Positioning System (GPS). The first satellite in the system, Navstar 1, was launched February 22, 1978. The GPS satellite constellation is operated by the 50th Space Wing of the United States Air Force.
Block I satellites
Beginning with Navstar 1 in 1978, ten "Block I" GPS satellites were successfully launched. One satellite, "Navstar 7", was lost due to an unsuccessful launch on December 18, 1981.
The Block I satellites were launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base using Atlas rockets that were converted intercontinental ballistic missiles. The satellites were built by Rockwell International at the same plant in Seal Beach, CA where the S-II second stages of the Saturn V rockets had been built.wtec>
The final Block I launch was conducted on October 9, 1985. The last Block I satellite was taken out of service on November 18, 1995.
Block II satellites
Initial Block II series
The first of the nine satellites in the initial Block II series was launched February 14, 1989; the last was launched October 1, 1990. The final satellite of the series to be taken out of service was decommissioned March 15, 2007.
Block IIA series
Nineteen satellites in the Block IIA series were launched, the first on November 26, 1990 and the last on November 6, 1997. As of January 17, 2009, six satellites of this series have been removed from service.
Two of the satellites in this series, numbers 35 and 36, are equipped with laser retro-reflectors. They can therefore be tracked independently of their radio signals, allowing unambiguous separation of clock and ephemeris errors.
Block IIR series
The Block IIR series are "replenishment" satellites developed by Lockheed Martin. Each satellite weighs at launch and once on orbit.
The first attempted launch of a Block IIR satellite failed on January 17, 1997 when the Delta II rocket exploded 12 seconds into flight. The first read more at » http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GPS+satellite
Connect with people who share your interest by joining one of our Groups:
How to Avoid The H1N1 Swine Flu With Vitamins And Supplements
How to Cook Whiting Fish
How to Sing High Notes
How to Get Fired Gracefully
How to Stop a Shopaholic
How to Drive Defensively During the Holidays
Wonders of the World
Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.
