#gps technology

Dr. Gladys West (née Brown)

October 27, 1930 – January 17, 2026

* Dr. Gladys Mae West, the brilliant mathematician whose groundbreaking work helped make modern GPS technology possible, has died at 95.

Born on a Virginia farm during the Jim Crow era, West defied the odds through academic excellence, becoming valedictorian of her high school class and earning degrees in mathematics that led her to a historic career at the Naval Surface Warfare Center.

As one of the first Black women hired there, her meticulous calculations and programming transformed satellite data into accurate models of the Earth — work that became the foundation of GPS technology used globally today.

Dr. Gladys West, the pioneering mathematician whose work laid the foundation for modern GPS technology passed away on January 17, 2026.

Dr. West was born in 1930 in Virginia. Despite the oppression of Jim Crow laws in the south, she was able to pursue higher education at Virginia State College (now named Virginia State University), obtaining bachelor's and master's degrees in mathematics. In 1956, West was hired at what is now called the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren, VA. Her focus during the 1970s and 1980s was creating accurate models of the Earth's shape based on satellite data, a complex task requiring the type of mathematical gymnastics that would make the average person dizzy. Those models later became the backbone for GPS. West worked at the Dahlgren center for 42 years, retiring in 1998. 

The future of modern surveying is being transformed by advanced digital innovations such as GIS Mapping, GPS Technology, and Drone Surveying. Industries including construction, infrastructure, mining, agriculture, transportation, and urban planning are increasingly depending on smart mapping solutions for accurate and real-time decision-making. At the forefront of this technological evolution is Lctss (Land Coordinates Technology), delivering advanced surveying and mapping solutions that improve efficiency, accuracy, and project planning.

The Growing Importance of GIS Mapping

GIS Mapping (Geographic Information System Mapping) has become one of the most essential technologies in land surveying and spatial data management. GIS enables professionals to collect, store, analyze, and visualize geographic information with exceptional precision. From city planning to environmental monitoring, GIS Mapping helps organizations understand spatial relationships and make informed decisions.

Traditional mapping methods often required extensive manual labor and time-consuming data processing. Today, AI-powered GIS platforms can process large volumes of spatial data within minutes, allowing surveyors and engineers to generate highly accurate digital maps and 3D models. With the integration of cloud computing and real-time analytics, GIS Mapping has become faster, smarter, and more reliable than ever before.

At Lctss (Land Coordinates Technology), advanced GIS Mapping solutions are used to deliver precise land data, topographic analysis, utility mapping, and infrastructure planning for various industries.

AI Revolution in GIS Mapping

Artificial Intelligence is redefining the future of GIS Mapping with AI, GPS & Drone Surveying Technology. AI algorithms can automatically analyze satellite imagery, drone-captured data, and geographic patterns to generate actionable insights. This reduces human errors and significantly improves productivity.

AI-powered GIS systems can:

Detect land changes automatically

Identify terrain features

Predict environmental risks

Improve urban planning

Enhance infrastructure management

Generate accurate digital elevation models

By combining AI with GIS Mapping, surveyors can quickly process massive datasets collected from drones, LiDAR scanners, and GPS equipment. This enables faster project completion and more accurate reporting.

Lctss uses AI-integrated mapping technologies to provide intelligent surveying solutions for construction projects, highways, industrial developments, and smart city planning.

Role of GPS Technology in Modern Surveying

GPS Technology has transformed the way land surveys are conducted. High-precision GPS equipment allows surveyors to determine exact geographic coordinates with centimeter-level accuracy. Modern GPS systems are essential for construction layouts, boundary surveys, transportation projects, and infrastructure development.

With Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) GPS systems, surveyors can collect accurate field data instantly without lengthy post-processing. GPS Technology also improves workflow efficiency by enabling seamless integration with GIS Mapping software and drone survey platforms.

Benefits of GPS Technology include:

High accuracy and precision

Faster field data collection

Reduced manual errors

Real-time positioning

Better project coordination

Cost-effective surveying operations

Lctss utilizes advanced GPS Technology to ensure reliable and accurate survey results for clients across multiple industries.

Drone Surveying: The Future of Fast and Accurate Mapping

One of the biggest innovations in land surveying is Drone Surveying. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras, LiDAR sensors, and GPS systems can capture aerial data quickly and safely, even in difficult terrains.

Compared to traditional survey methods, Drone Surveying offers:

Faster project execution

High-resolution aerial imagery

Accurate topographic mapping

Reduced manpower requirements

Enhanced safety in hazardous areas

Cost-effective large-area surveys

Drone Surveying is widely used for:

Construction site monitoring

Mining surveys

Road and railway mapping

Agriculture analysis

Urban planning

Environmental monitoring

When integrated with GIS Mapping and GPS Technology, drones can generate detailed orthomosaic maps, 3D terrain models, and digital surface models with exceptional accuracy.

At Lctss, advanced Drone Surveying technologies are combined with AI-driven GIS Mapping systems to provide comprehensive geospatial solutions for modern infrastructure projects.

Integration of GIS Mapping, GPS & Drone Surveying

The real future of surveying lies in the integration of GIS Mapping, GPS Technology, and Drone Surveying into one intelligent workflow. This integrated approach allows surveyors and engineers to collect, analyze, and visualize spatial data more efficiently than ever before.

For example:

Drones capture aerial imagery and terrain data.

GPS Technology provides precise positioning information.

GIS Mapping software processes and visualizes the collected data.

AI systems analyze patterns and generate predictive insights.

This connected ecosystem improves project planning, reduces operational costs, and increases overall accuracy.

Lctss (Land Coordinates Technology) leverages this integrated technology approach to deliver high-quality geospatial services tailored to modern industry requirements.

Smart Cities and the Future of GIS Mapping

As smart cities continue to grow, the demand for accurate GIS Mapping and intelligent surveying solutions will increase significantly. Governments and private organizations rely on GIS data for:

Urban infrastructure planning

Traffic management

Water resource management

Disaster management

Environmental sustainability

Utility management

AI-powered GIS Mapping combined with Drone Surveying and GPS Technology enables city planners to make better decisions using real-time spatial intelligence.

Lctss supports smart infrastructure development by offering advanced mapping and surveying services designed for future-ready urban projects.

Conclusion

The future of GIS Mapping with AI, GPS & Drone Surveying Technology is transforming the surveying industry with faster data collection, improved accuracy, intelligent analytics, and real-time decision-making. Modern technologies such as AI-powered GIS Mapping, advanced GPS Technology, and Drone Surveying are helping industries complete projects more efficiently and cost-effectively.

While the planet is preoccupied with the topic of colonizing the moon and Mars, there is a threat, although not so romantic, looming in the background and above our heads,” said one NASA spokesperson recently. Our planet is reportedly experiencing congestion in space with space debris, threatening an electronic domino effect to shatter the Internet, the GPS system, and weather forecasts. This is…

Have you ever thought about how much your fishing experience could improve with the right technology? Imagine a day out on the lake, and instead of guessing where the fish might be, you have a screen in front of you that presents the underwater world in vivid detail. This is where the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 73sv, a 7″ Keyed-Assist Touchscreen Chartplotter, comes into play, offering a level of…

Bus tracking systems have transformed the way people interact with public transportation. By offering real-time updates on bus locations, arrival times, and route information, bus trackers have become an essential tool for both transit authorities and commuters.

These systems enhance the efficiency of public transit networks, reduce wait times, and improve overall user satisfaction.

What is a Bus Tracker?

A bus tracker is a GPS-based system that monitors the location of buses in real-time. The data collected from GPS devices installed on buses is transmitted to a central server, where it is processed and made available to users through mobile apps, websites, and digital displays at bus stops.

This allows commuters to see the exact location of a bus on its route and receive accurate predictions for arrival times.

Key Benefits of Bus Trackers

Improved Commuter Experience: One of the most significant benefits of bus trackers is the enhancement of the commuter experience. Real-time information allows passengers to plan their journeys more effectively, reducing the uncertainty and frustration associated with waiting for buses. Knowing exactly when a bus will arrive helps commuters manage their time better and reduces the likelihood of missed connections.

Increased Operational Efficiency: For transit authorities, bus trackers provide valuable data that can be used to optimize operations. By analyzing patterns in bus movement, delays, and passenger load, transit agencies can make informed decisions about route adjustments, scheduling, and resource allocation. This leads to more efficient use of vehicles and personnel, ultimately improving service reliability.

Reduced Wait Times: One of the most common complaints among public transit users is long wait times. Bus trackers address this issue by providing real-time updates that allow passengers to arrive at bus stops just before the bus does, minimizing the time spent waiting. This not only improves the commuter experience but also enhances the overall perception of public transportation as a reliable option.

Enhanced Safety and Security: Bus trackers contribute to the safety of both passengers and drivers. With real-time tracking, transit authorities can monitor buses and respond quickly in case of emergencies or unexpected events. Additionally, passengers can feel more secure knowing that their bus is being monitored and that help can be dispatched if needed.

Environmental Benefits: By optimizing bus routes and reducing idle times, bus trackers can contribute to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions. Efficiently managed bus fleets mean fewer unnecessary trips and less time spent idling in traffic, which is beneficial for the environment.

Features of Modern Bus Tracking Systems

Real-Time GPS Tracking: The core feature of any bus tracker is real-time GPS tracking, which provides accurate information about the location and movement of buses on their routes.

Arrival Time Predictions: Using historical data and real-time tracking, bus trackers can predict when a bus will arrive at a particular stop, giving passengers reliable information.

Route Information: Bus trackers often include detailed route maps, showing the entire journey of the bus, including all stops and any detours or changes in the route.

Notifications and Alerts: Many bus tracking apps allow users to set up notifications for specific buses or routes. Passengers can receive alerts about delays, detours, or when their bus is approaching their stop.

Integration with Other Transit Systems: Some advanced bus tracking systems are integrated with other forms of public transit, such as trains or ferries, providing a seamless experience for commuters using multiple modes of transportation.

Implementing Bus Trackers: Challenges and Considerations

While bus trackers offer numerous benefits, implementing them can be challenging. Transit authorities must invest in the necessary technology, including GPS devices, communication systems, and data processing infrastructure.

Additionally, maintaining accurate and up-to-date information requires continuous monitoring and regular updates to the system.

Another important consideration is accessibility. To ensure that all users benefit from bus tracking systems, they should be accessible via multiple platforms, including mobile apps, websites, and physical displays at bus stops.

Special attention should be given to making these tools user-friendly and accommodating for individuals with disabilities.

Conclusion

Bus trackers have revolutionized the way we experience public transportation, offering real-time insights that enhance convenience, safety, and efficiency. By providing accurate and timely information, these systems empower commuters to make informed decisions and improve their overall transit experience.