Contemporary Geographic Tools How do geographers locate and display information today? (These are tools that have taken the place of paper maps, compasses, and other devices used before the age of computers.)

Objectives Define GPS, Remote Sensing and GIS Explain how geographers use each of the tools

GPS - Global Positioning System GPS uses satellites in a fixed orbit to help determine a precise position on the earth’s surface (mathematical location) The satellites send and receive signals from a devices on the earth’s surface such as a navigation system in a car, a smart phone, etc. When three or most satellites can be referenced by the device it can give a fairly accurate position on the earth’s surface. GPS devices are primarily used for navigation, but they are also helpful for location the position of an object on the earth’s surface and mapping it for reference.

Remote Sensing Acquisition of data about the earth’s surface from distance - such as from orbiting satellites or from an aircraft is another tool used by geographers (as well as a variety of scientists) to catalogue and examine our world. The data is downloaded and often put on some sort of grid which allows for spatial analysis.

GIS - Geographic Information Systems The layering of a variety of data/information onto a map for use by geographers, scientists, planners, etc. The information is often put over a map to help identify specific objects in relation to others for the purpose of analysis.