|
GPS Tracking Service |
|
GPS Tracking Services Articles
Return to Home
GPS Tracking For the Science Hobbyistby Greg Bartlett / guest authorMost of us are familiar with a GPS tracking system and its ability to track vehicles, belongings, or people and to keep us apprised of their locations at any given time. We’ve seen articles on child safety, alzheimer’s, and outdoor sports that incorporate the devices into their operations with satisfying results. But there are seemingly no limits to how GPS tracking can be creatively used by inquiring minds. One British man used a GPS tracking device attached to a digital camera and launched in a helium weather balloon to take astounding pictures of the earth which have impressed even NASA. After launching the balloon bearing the camera and GPS device from his backyard, Robert Harrison proceeded to track its movements from his home computer and was able to recover the camera easily once the balloon burst and fell back to earth. Pictures showing the curvature of the earth, the haze of the atmosphere and the blackness of space have been taken by NASA at the cost of hundreds of millions of dollars per mission. Now, amateur hobbyists are taking them for only a few hundred dollars. Although camera-bearing balloons have attempted to take pictures of space before, GPS tracking is the key to making sure the digital camera is easily recoverable once it finds its way back to earth. Previous attempts could result in expensive losses if the camera could not be found or if it was stolen before its owner could find and retrieve it. With the advent of GPS tracking, the amateur hobbyist can follow his camera’s movements from the moment it launches to the moment it lands and can be waiting for it in the exact spot it descends. Hobbyists have used GPS tracking in a wide variety of ways to aid them in their leisure pursuits. Runners wear GPS watches that monitor speed and heart rate; hikers carry a GPS tracking device to ensure safety on the trail; and boaters use GPS tracking in races so that their loyal fans can keep track of the exact position of each vessel throughout the course. Now, amateur scientists can join the ranks of those who rely on a GPS tracking device to help them reach new heights in the pursuit of their hobby. As new uses surface every day, the inquiring mind is left to wonder whether even the sky will be the limit. Greg Bartlett is a guest author who specializes in writing about GPS technology and has earned two master’s degrees. Return to list of articles |
Add to del.icio.us Add to Favorites Links