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Global Positioning System (GPS)The Global Position System (GPS) is a global navigation satellite system that provides geolocation and time information to a GPS receiver anywhere on the earth where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites. GPS was first launched 1973 by the US Department of Defense for military use but in the late 1980 s GPS became available for civilian use. Since that time, GPS has been integrated into navigation for assistance to a traveler who is blind or visually impaired. With the advancement of GPS technology, a person with a visual impairment or who is blind can use many GPS ready devices as travel aids. With the inception of the smart phone, a GPS device has become more common. Apps that use GPS have been very helpful for general mobility. The West Palm Beach Blind Rehabilitation Center Orientation and Mobility (O&M) department provides training to Veterans who want to be more independent in their daily travels that may take the veteran to unfamiliar locations anywhere in the world. |
