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What kinds of vehicles and devices use GPS receivers?

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GPS satellite — GPS U.S. Navstar Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite in orbit over Earth, shown in an artist's conception.

GPS receivers are utilized by a vast array of vehicles and devices, reflecting the system's evolution from a military tool to a global utility.12

Vehicles

GPS technology is essential for the navigation and positioning of various transport platforms, including:
* Aviation: Commercial jetliners, private airplanes, and spacecraft such as the space shuttle and the International Space Station.13
* Maritime: Ocean liners, recreational sailboats, and other marine vessels.12
* Land Transport: Family automobiles, ambulance fleets, bus and truck fleets, railroad locomotives, and farm tractors.12
* Military: Tanks, battlefield missiles, and artillery projectiles.13

Devices

Beyond specialized vehicles, GPS receivers are integrated into many portable and consumer electronics:
* Personal Devices: Cellular telephones, wristwatches, and personal digital assistants (PDAs).1
* Recreational Equipment: Handheld units used by hikers, backpackers, and golfers.132
* Professional Tools: Surveying equipment used for precise mapping and location data.2

Many of these receivers are highly compact, often no larger than a pocket calculator, and utilize computer chips as small as a fingernail to provide real-time position, velocity, and timing data.13