The Global Positioning System (GPS) aren't really stars, they're satellites. The GPS is a navigation system based on a network of satellites that send out radio signals. The system provides accurate positions at any time, in any weather, any place in the world. That means we can use the GPS to tell us where we are, which direction to travel, how far north or south we are and how far east or west we've traveled, a whole lot easier than in the days of the explorers.

Who Owns The GPS?

The system is owned, operated, and controlled by the United States Department of Defense (DoD). Although developed by the U.S. Military, it can be used around the world by anyone free of charge. Yes - that's right, free. In fact, about 80 percent of the users today are civilian, not military.

History

The US Navy first used a system of satellites for navigation as early as the 1960's. This system worked well for many years, but eventually accurate information was needed faster than the system could provide and so the Global Positioning System began development in the late 70's. There were enough satellites to begin a service by the mid 80's. GPS became completely ready for use in 1993.