Since Global Positioning Satellites were launched and maritime operations were able to utilize GPS for navigation, ocean going vessels have benefited immensely. By using GPS navigation, ships can travel routes more safely and use less fuel and arrive on time.
Prior to GPS navigation it was not always easy to determine travel speed or location. Currents could drastically alter ship travel speed and location. GPS has made it safer for ships on the open sea as well in harbors. Precise location and speed can be determined for safe operation. With GPS navigation vessels can avoid dangerous obstructions in the water and can travel in the most economical and safest mode.
By using GPS for surveying under water and for placement of buoys, GPS allows mariners to locate and map hazards to avoid. GPS has allowed commercial fisherman to locate and map areas best for fishing and return to these locations in an expeditious fashion.
Differential GPS (DGPS) allows precise mapping and buoy placement in harbors for everyone’s safety as well as easy navigation when you can use GPS. This is especially important for people unfamiliar with the harbor they are navigating. With the DGPS mariners are replacing old paper charting with the digital DGPS systems.
Containers can be placed and monitored with GPS systems much more efficiently than using the old systems. Containers can also be more efficiently monitored using GPS while traveling to ports aboard ships.
GPS enabled Automatic Identification System (AIS) is used on ships to monitor ship location in busy sea channels as well in port to keep up with ships and cargo. This enhances safety tremendously. Dangerous cargo can be monitored at all times.
Automatic Identification System (AIS) operates on VHF radio as well and when uploaded to GPS charts maritime operators use it enhances safety by showing where vessels are helps avoid collisions as well as keeping locations of cargo updated.
GPS use for search and rescue has saved many lives. Without GPS search and rescue teams would be greatly hampered. GPS technology is increasing at a rapid rate and it benefits everyone.
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