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Science for Alaska Lecture Series: GPS Versatility in Science and Society

The ������ Geophysical Institute presents the virtual 2022 Science for Alaska Lecture Series. On Tuesday, March 1, at 7 p.m., associate professor Ronni Grapenthin and Ph.D. student Alexandru Lapadat will present “Beyond Finding Coffee: GPS Versatility in Science and Society.”

“Use of the Global Positioning System, or GPS, has become deeply embedded into civil life. Paired with mapping applications on smartphones, we rely on GPS to orient us in places near and far – be it to navigate traffic or find the best coffee,” the two presenters said. “However, GPS features go beyond the elemental need of placing us on a global map or synchronizing the global economy – it’s become a Swiss Army knife in science.

“GPS satellites send their signals from about 20,200 kilometers (12,500 miles) above the Earth. Traversing the atmosphere and bouncing off of structures, trees, or the ground, the signals recorded by scientific GPS receivers capture valuable information about their journey, in addition to merely providing a position,” they said. “We will explore how GPS signals characterize ionospheric activity, earthquake and volcanic processes, or local snow depth, and venture into real-time hazard early warning applications.”

Tune in at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays to learn about exciting science from Arctic Ocean exploration, retreating coastal glaciers, DNA mystery solving, benefits of GPS, the workings of the Alaska Satellite Facility and more.

Registration closed to watch on Zoom or watch live from the ������ or GI Facebook pages.

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Talks are free and for the public. All ages are encouraged to attend.