As popular as GPS devices are in VW cars these days, it may be nice to know some basic facts about the technology that we are using. Where did it come from? Who invented it? How does it work? These are just a few questions we are going to answer for you in the next couple blog posts. We hope you enjoy and learn something about these handy little devices.
• The first satellite for GPS purposes was launched in 1978.
• By 1994, 24 satellites were launched mainly for GPS purposes.
• The GPS technology was initially created by Ivan Getting for the United States Department of Defense. The cost was $12 billion.
• GPS satellites run on solar energy.
• The official U.S. Department of Defense term for GPS is NAVSTAR.
• GPS technology is also used to pinpoint ships and submarines. It has also been used to measure the height of Mount Everest.
• Many GPS devices are accurate to one centimeter or better.
• The GPS technology used in portable devices for cars today is the same that is used by the United States military for finding enemies.
How cool are GPS devices? I recently bought one and I cannot figure out how I ever lived without it. Get one for your VW cars and you’ll feel the same way.
