GPS and its augmentations are an essential element of a global information infrastructure. The free, open, and dependable nature of GPS has led to the development of applications that billions of users worldwide rely on. GPS technology is now in everything from cell phones and wristwatches to bulldozers, shipping containers, and ATMs.
GPS precise positioning boosts productivity across a wide swath of the economy, including farming (intelligent agriculture), construction, open-pit mining, surveying, package tracking/delivery, and logistical supply chain management. Major communications networks, banking systems, financial markets, and power grids depend heavily on GPS for precise timing and time synchronization. GPS saves lives by helping to mitigate transportation accidents, monitoring weather, aiding search and rescue efforts, and speeding the delivery of emergency services and disaster relief. GPS is vital to the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) that will enhance flight safety while increasing airspace capacity.
GPS also advances science, such as developing real-time natural hazard monitoring (earthquakes, tsunamis, etc.) and environmental monitoring (forestry, ground moisture content, water vapor content, space weather, etc.).
GPS is critical to U.S. national security and its applications are integrated into virtually every facet of U.S. military operations.
New uses of GPS are invented every day and are limited only by the human imagination.
More Information
Next Generation Air Transportation System (faa.gov)
