How the Cold War Gave Us GPS

The video explores the evolution of GPS from its Cold War origins to its current role in everyday life. Initially developed to counter the Soviet Union's Sputnik, GPS technology was later adapted for civilian use after a tragic airline incident. Over time, GPS has become integral to various sectors, including military, transportation, and finance, with its applications expanding significantly after accuracy restrictions were lifted in 2000. Today, GPS is a critical global infrastructure, supporting a vast array of technologies and industries.

What was the original purpose of GPS technology?

• To guide civilian vehicles

• To defeat the Soviet Union

• To improve banking systems

• To enhance agricultural efficiency

Which satellite system is known as the precursor to modern GPS?

• Galileo

• Sputnik

• NAVSTAR

• GLONASS

What event led to the decision to make GPS available for civilian use?

• The launch of Sputnik

• The Korean airline incident

• Operation Desert Storm

• The end of the Cold War

What was the main concern of the US military regarding the civilian use of GPS?

• Cost of technology

• Loss of technological advantage

• Increased traffic congestion

• Environmental impact

During which operation was GPS first fully tested in a military context?

• Operation Enduring Freedom

• Operation Desert Storm

• Operation Iraqi Freedom

• Operation Neptune Spear

What is one of the key civilian applications of GPS technology today?

• Monitoring weather patterns

• Guiding military missiles

• Tracking wildlife

• Timestamping banking transactions

How accurate are the atomic clocks used in GPS technology?

• Within 14 milliseconds

• Within 14 seconds

• Within 14 nanoseconds

• Within 14 microseconds