Emergency GPS Trackers to the Rescue

Satellite technology has truly changed the world. Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation may be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about ways this technology is commonly used. But GPS technology is constantly growing in use and applications.

We employ GPS in our cars, phones, and computers. Keeping our kids safe, increasing productivity, even keeping time are all practical applications of this valuable technology. And methods of keeping track of our lives through GPS are growing in number and simplicity.

How Does GPS Work?

Satellites constantly orbit the earth, sending signals to receivers on the ground. Once a receiver senses and translates signals from at least three separate satellites, it can decipher its own location. This process is called trilateration. Obtaining the satellites’ time and trajectory allows the receiver to calculate its position as coordinates in three-dimensional space. The more satellites in range of a receiver, the more accurate its calculations of location will be.

The receiver’s precision is also influenced by other factors, including sensitivity and forms of interference. The types of satellites in range can also affect the instrument’s performance.

After receiving the satellite signals, the instrument translates its calculations into an address. This can be done in various ways. Some receivers, like the GPS navigation system in a car, use internet downloaded maps to find an address. Other receivers, such as a mobile device, can connect directly to an internet program that uses the coordinates to find an address on a map.

What are GPS Trackers?

A GPS tracker is a device that uses the Global Positioning System to locate a person, a vehicle, or an item to which it is attached. The position of the asset is recorded regularly.

GPS tracking devices work in a similar manner to GPS navigation systems, only, instead of displaying information, they communicate their data to an internet server on which users can access the tracking device’s previous locations. Many of these devices transmit data using cellular phone networks, but some send out a satellite signal, allowing them to be used anywhere in the world.

How are GPS Trackers Used in Rescue Efforts?

Adventurers often stray outside the range of mobile and radio networks. In fact, 75 percent of the earth’s lands are outside any network range. So when someone on adventure goes missing or has an accident, search and rescue teams that rely on mobile networks may have great difficulty finding the lost person.

Now that GPS tracking devices are available, users can quickly be found anywhere in the world. When a user presses the button, a signal is sent to low-earth satellites. The user’s coordinates are then passed on to an emergency response company at an international dispatch center. This company alerts the correct authority and the user’s emergency contact person. A rescue effort that may have taken days can occur in a few hours. Time saved during a rescue translates into lives saved.

SPOT GPS Devices Have Helped Rescue Over 3,000 People

One company that has seen amazing results from its GPS devices is Globalstar, maker of SPOT trackers and SPOT global phones. “Wherever it is in whichever country, the capability of the unit is such that it really takes the search out of search and rescue,” says Jay Monroe, CEO of Globalstar. “You know exactly where the person is and all you have to do is go get ‘em.”

In fact, Monroe’s company recently celebrated its 3,000^th rescue since it began selling tracking devices in 2007. Apparently the company receives about one rescue signal per day, frequently involving life-threatening situations.

SPOT trackers include both an SOS signal and an “I’m okay” button to send notifications about a user’s condition, indicating whether they need help or not.

Compared to a satellite phone, SPOT trackers and global phones are quite reasonably priced. They currently sell for $170 for a SPOT tracker and $499 for a SPOT global phone. There are some additional fees for the satellite tracking services, but this is a low price to pay for security for those who like to wander and sometimes get lost.

What’s Next for GPS Tracking?

GPS devices continue to impress. Even those without GPS trackers may benefit from the technology. In frequently explored areas, such as popular hiking trails or ski slopes, search and rescue teams can look for paths that lost hikers or skiers may have taken. This approach can save time and lives.

As technology advances so will the capabilities of GPS tracking. Perhaps in the future GPS tracking and nanotechnology will combine to further facilitate tracking people, like children who have been abducted or soldiers missing in action on a foreign field. Researchers and developers will continue to find amazing ways for this wonderful technology to continue benefiting mankind.

Emergency GPS Trackers to the Rescue