Navigation notes to know:
G.P.S:
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G.P.S stands for Global Positioning System.
G.P.S. is a space based satellite navigation system.
G.P.S. provides location and time anywhere on Earth.
G.P.S. was originally developed for military purposes.
G.P.S. requires the use of at least 3 satellites.
G.P.S. uses triangulation to determine a location of an object or place on Earth.
There are as many as 30 satellites circulating the Earth.
With the use of 4 satellites, not only can a G.P.S. locate your longitude and latitude but also your altitude.
G.P.S. is very time sensitive and dependent.
G.P.S. is used in cars, airplanes, farm equipment, on golf carts and for personal hand held use.
Pros
Can be very accurate
Can offer a variety of different routes
Can offer a point of interest if you are a tourist.
Can have maps from other countries
It will let you know how much distance you have covered.
It can tell you the altitude.
It will let you know how much further you have to travel.
It will pin point your exact location.
No need for a paper map.
Small and can be packed easily.
It provides a time and date.
Cons
Can be very expensive.
Can be easily lost or damaged.
May not recognize your destination.
Storms and bad weather can affect accuracy.
Maps constantly need to be updated.
Tall buildings or forests can block signals.
Does not work well inside buildings etc.
Due to the fact it runs on batteries, it could die on your travels.
It can stop working if it gets wet (electronic device)
Rely entirely on satellites to work.
Can be difficult to set up your route or destination.
Compass:
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It is defined as an “an instrument containing a magnetized pointer that shows the direction of magnetic north
and bearings from it.
The type of compass used in class was a base plate compass.
A compass has four cardinal points and four inter-cardinal points.
The numbers on the dial of the compass represent the degrees.
It is used as a navigation tool originally as well as for military expeditions.
To help with finding your way, a compass should be paired up with a map.
You should always hold the compass flat and point the direction of go arrow towards your next bearing.
It can be used in all weather conditions.
It was developed in China during the Hans Dynasty between the 2nd and 1st century AD.
Light weight
Inexpensive
Low risk of breakage
Can be used in all weather.
Can be used day or night.
Can be used anywhere in the world.
No need for external power to operate.
Can be used for all maps.
Displays where magnetic north is.
Portable
Cons
Requires some training to be used properly.
Without a map, a compass is not very useful.
Readings can be thrown off by metal.
Limited functions such as a ruler and a magnifying glass.
Due to its size, can be easily misplaced or lost.