Interesting facts about GPS technology
Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are a critical component when it comes to the use and application of many of the technologies, on a daily basis. Although the system was primarily designed to navigate using signals which accurately pinpoint your location, nowadays GPS and navigation systems are a common technological fixture.
However, there are many things you didn’t know about proprietary GPS and navigation systems although we are pretty much relying on the same for proper guidance. Here are a few interesting facts about this three-decade-old technology.
GPS and navigation technology: The concept which revolves around GPS technology may be similar, but the technology is not unique. This means GPS is not the only space-based radio navigation systems. It is one of the much popular and used systems globally. Russia has its own navigation system known as the GLONASS, along with Galileo in Europe and BeiDou in China. However, presently GPS and GLONASS are the only two satellite-based space radio systems that offer global coverage. The Galileo and BeiDou systems are yet to be made fully functional for global coverage.
Number of Satellites in orbit: Since GPS and navigation systems heavily rely on global satellites for positional and coverage accuracy of the signals, there are currently 32 satellites orbiting our planet. Global coverage is only possible when a total of 24 satellites work together in cohesion to provide uninterrupted signals and coverage, which was achieved back in the 90’s itself. However, today with the additional eight satellites, extra coverage is possible without any downtime when the GPS satellites are undergoing scheduled maintenance and repairs.
GPS visibility and line of sight concept: We may have 32 satellites orbiting at any given point of time, however, for GPS and navigation systems to function properly, we only need a minimum of four satellites to achieve positionally and signal accuracy. Four satellites in our line of sight will ensure uninterrupted coverage and accurate location mapping since there is constant communication between the signal sender and receiver. The signals travel at the speed of light which is constant and based on these factors it is easy to determine an accurate position for mapping.
Relativity plays a key role: Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity in simple terms states that time tends to move faster in places where there is the minimum effect of gravity, which is why the time onboard GPS and navigation satellites will be different when compared to our clocks back home. In fact, the difference of 38 microseconds faster per day will not sound so significant, but in reality, if this factor is not taken into account, the locations mapping could be off by more than a couple of miles thus affecting positional accuracy. This is also one of the main reasons why we need four orbiting satellites in line of sight to determine accuracy.
The government owns and operates GPS system: The technology might have been invented and developed by the military, to be used for advanced warfare and systems, but it was made freely available to the public after 2000. The technology is owned and operated by the government as a public domain for everyone to benefit from GPS and navigation systems which have become a major part of our routine.
Other uses of GPS:
- GPS is not just for determining your location, but also can be used to find out the exact time also with the help of onboard atomic clocks.
- GPS and navigation shoes are designed for people who are suffering from Alzheimer’s so that they can be tracked in case they lose their way.
- Not only automobiles, but ships and planes are also very dependent on this technology to navigate safely across continents.
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Here’s what you should know about Vans shoes
Read moreThe Vans, California-styled shoes have been around for a very long time now. It has everyone wondering how Vans shoes have stood the test of time. They have managed to stay on the top through the many revolutions in the fashion industry.
Right from the beginning, Vans shoes were the ultimate hit. The shoes were first designed for skateboarders. In fact, their tagline “off the wall” is something skaters used to say back then. Within 10 years of opening, Vans became an international brand.
Vans now sells shoes that are well received in the sports, music and art industries. They also manufacture shirts, skateboards, backpacks and other merchandise.
The manufacturing process of Vans shoes has been the same through the years. They are made in a special vulcanized process. The upper part of the shoe is made of heat-resistant materials such as suede and leather. The rest is covered in cotton canvas and lined with metal detailing.
Vans shoes are of a certain quality. The materials used to make Vans have only improved over the years. The standard maintained by the brand keeps the customers loyal to their products. This has resulted in boosted sales of their other merchandise as well.
The first Vans shoes were skateboarding shoes which were the trend at the time. Later, they introduced weather resistant shoes and boots. Shoes that can be customized were a big hit. At the same time, there was absolutely no compromise with the quality of Vans shoes. Vans collaborated with the trendsetters of the time and released related footwear. It has come to be one of the favorite brands of youngsters everywhere.
The company is very active all over the world. They sponsor snowboarding, skateboarding, motorcycle and several other active sports contests. You can find Vans in the footwear of most active sports. The company releases shoes with trending designs regularly.
We have Vans to thank for the introduction of the slip on shoes. These shoes can be easily worn and removed without the hassle of untying the lace. Vans slip-on shoes have an excellent grip. They are available in several patterns. A signature pattern is a checkered slip-on that was introduced in 1977. They have many other iconic designs that are unique.
Vans is one of the coolest brands that focus on comfort and also maintains quality while incorporating creative models of shoes. The action sports shoe collection have shoes manufactured in all kinds of sports. They have innovative prints and designs which keep them fun and interesting.
Vans started off as a simple manufacturing company. It was the only company at the time that sold shoes directly from factory outlets. It later transformed into a marketing company in 1990. Through many successful campaigns, the brand is now a world renowned name.
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Benefits of buying curtains and drapes online
Read moreThe rooms in your house are large, they have window panes, and you can close the panes whenever you like to prevent the entry of dirt or dust inside the room. All these things are pretty good but have you ever contemplated that using appropriate curtains & drapes can enhance your privacy and they can save energy and protect you from outside noise, dirt or dust. Investing in the right curtains and window components like the curtain rods is important, and for that, you need to do the shopping right. The right e-store has the window curtains & drapes, blinds, and shades, custom blinds, and shades, kitchen and bath curtains, door curtains, outdoor curtains, window sheers. The different curtains sold online are categorized according to the hanging style, color, size, price range, window style, material, solid or pattern, indoor or outdoor, brand. The different curtains are highlighted online along with product features, customer reviews, product prices, product images.
Get attractive curtains and drapes online
Online purchase of curtains & drapes has increased significantly, and nowadays many businesses are into selling window curtains or other accessories to the potential buyers. There are many benefits related to an online purchase of items. Firstly, online purchase is simple, fast, convenient, effortless, and offers the customers a range of options to choose from. In this context, many businesses offer lucrative discounts on product sale to their customers.
Tips for purchasing curtains
If you want to avail curtains or drapes for your windows or doors then try to understand your requirements, your priorities and based on that go for online shopping. Many businesses are selling the same products, online and therefore there is no dearth of the items that you may find useful. Check multiple e-stores and go through the product reviews, customer reviews, and product prices. Always compare the product prices before making a deal. This helps you to get the best curtains & drapes at affordable prices. Many e-commerce portals selling curtains offer attractive discounts on the sale of products and choose the curtains or drapes that promise the best deal for your money.There are window sheers, room-darkening curtains, black-out curtains, rod pocket curtains, gray window curtains, blue window curtains that you may like to buy.
Benefits of purchasing window curtains
The benefits of purchasing window curtains are multi-fold and they are as follows:-
- Window curtains prevent the entry of dirt, dust.
- Offers privacy
- Blocks excessive heat or light and thus helps to keep the home interior cool.
- Enhance the attractiveness of the room interiors.
- Curtains are used for room darkening, noise reduction, furniture fading.
Next time you buy window curtains and drapes choose a business that offers you the best products online.