1
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I hope that helps your brother out.

2
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Thanks for the information on the SHARP program.

3
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My brother is very excited about it.

4
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You're welcome.

5
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May I ask you another question?

6
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It's about global positioning systems.

7
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Of course. What would you like to know?

8
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As a pilot for NASA, how do you use GPS when you're flying?

9
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With GPS's unique ability to provide an exact location at any second,

10
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pilots rely on that for accurate navigation.

11
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That is pretty important when you're flying.

12
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Yes, knowing exactly where you are helps to keep the plane clear

13
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of obstacles and mountains and get you to your destination safely.

14
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How does GPS help you navigate?

15
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GPS devices on aircraft are very similar to the ones you use for geocaching,

16
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just a little more sophisticated.

17
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They show great detail accurately displayed on a graphic map.

18
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We've learned how important accurate maps are.

19
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Yes, and having the capability to always know where you are

20
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combined with an accurate map display

21
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greatly adds to the situational awareness and to the safety of the flight.

22
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What would happen if the GPS device went out while you were flying?

23
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It might make the aircraft unable to fly and land in all types of bad weather.

24
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However, aircraft aren't dependent upon GPS.

25
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All planes and their pilots have the ability to fall back on

26
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traditional modes of navigation that were used prior to GPS.

27
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Just like we had to rely on our good old compass when our GPS went out.

28
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Exactly. At worst, it would be an inconvenience for the pilot.

29
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But he or she would be quite capable of safely flying the aircraft.

30
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That's good to know. Are there any other uses for GPS?

31
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Absolutely. There are all types of navigational uses for GPS.

32
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Oil companies use GPS to help them drill for oil.

33
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Farmers even use GPS to help them plow their fields.

34
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Some have even used GPS to locate a stolen vehicle.

35
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Most activities that benefit from knowing an exact position on Earth use GPS.

36
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Wow, I never realized so many people could use GPS.

37
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Thanks, Mr. Cope.

38
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Maybe we could see GPS in action by taking a quick ride on one of your research planes.

39
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I didn't know you and your brother were interested in flying.

40
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The weather wasn't cooperating for our flight, but it was great to learn more about GPS.

41
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I hope Jacob's meeting with Dr. D goes well.

42
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We still have a lot to learn about GPS and navigation.