Artist’s rendering of WGS-11+

Fact Sheets

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  • Remote Sensing Systems Directorate

    The SMC Remote Sensing Systems Directorate (SMC/RS) manages the Air Force OPIR enterprise and the Department of Defense Space Based Environmental Monitoring Enterprise.  The OPIR enterprise is comprised of two DoD programs, Defense Support Program (DSP), and Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS). 

  • SPACE BASED INFRARED SYSTEM (SBIRS)

    MissionThe SBIRS program is the follow-on capability to the highly successful Defense Support Program (DSP).  The SBIRS program was designed to provide a seamless operational transition from DSP to SBIRS and meet jointly defined requirements of the defense and intelligence communities in support of

  • Civilian applications of GPS – Timing

    In addition to longitude, latitude, and altitude, the Global Positioning System provides a critical fourth dimension - time. Each GPS satellite contains multiple atomic clocks that contribute very precise time data to the GPS signals. GPS receivers decode these signals, effectively synchronizing

  • Civilian applications of GPS – Surveying and Mapping

    The surveying and mapping community was one of the first to take advantage of GPS because it dramatically increased productivity and resulted in more accurate and reliable data. Today, GPS is a vital part of surveying and mapping activities around the world.When used by skilled professionals, GPS

  • Civilian applications of GPS – Space

    The Global Positioning System is revolutionizing and revitalizing the way nations operate in space, from guidance systems for crewed vehicles to the management, tracking, and control of communication satellite constellations, to monitoring the Earth from space.Benefits of using GPS include: -

  • Civilian applications of GPS – Roads and Highways

    It is estimated that delays from congestion on highways, streets, and transit systems throughout the world result in productivity losses in the hundreds of billions of dollars annually. Other negative effects of congestion include property damage, personal injuries, increased air pollution, and

  • Civilian applications of GPS – Recreation

    The Global Positioning System has eliminated many of the hazards associated with common recreational activities by providing a capability to determine a precise location. GPS receivers have also broadened the scope and enjoyment of outdoor activities by simplifying many of the traditional problems,

  • Civilian applications of GPS – Rail

    Rail systems throughout the world use the Global Positioning System to track the movement of locomotives, rail cars, maintenance vehicles, and wayside equipment in real time. When combined with other sensors, computers, and communications systems, GPS improves rail safety, security, and operational

  • Civilian applications of GPS – Public Safety and Disaster Relief

    A critical component of any successful rescue operation is time. Knowing the precise location of landmarks, streets, buildings, emergency service resources, and disaster relief sites reduces that time -- and saves lives. This information is critical to disaster relief teams and public safety

  • Civilian applications of GPS – Marine

    The Global Positioning System has changed the way the world operates. This is especially true for marine operations, including search and rescue. GPS provides the fastest and most accurate method for mariners to navigate, measure speed, and determine location. This enables increased levels of safety

 

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