Mapping Kentucky History The MKH Challenge • Obtain geographical coordinates to the Kentucky Roadside Markers • Use cutting-edge technologies such as Global Positioning Systems and Geographical Information System • Learn about Kentucky’s rich historical heritage Kentucky Historical Markers Database • Maintained by Kentucky Historical Society and Kentucky Department of Transportation Click on a the map to jump to the interactive map for Kentucky. Marker Search Historical Markers Front Back WHAT IS GPS? Global Positioning System - a system of satellites that transmits signals used by special receivers on the ground for precise determination of location, sometimes within meters. Data can include elevation, location, and speed. Ranging, why are 3 needed? GPS Satellite 4 needed for 3-D fix Why is the system not perfect? • Error sources – Atmospheric – Multipath scatter – Positional error • Cheap GPS Units – Limited satellite channels – Poor internal processors Obstructions Bad Luck with Satellites One solution to the Error – Differential GPS • Use two receivers to eliminate much of the signal error • Increases accuracy to a few centimeters with good units Consumer GPS Hardware (Cheap) • Consumer-grade – Garmin III plus • >3 meter accuracy – eTrex – Garmin V • <3 meter accuracy 95% of the time • WAAS – GPSMAP 60Cx Survey-Grade GPS (Expensive) • Survey Grade • Thales Promark2 – Navigation • WAAS <3 m – Post-processing • <1 cm – Kinematic • ~1 cm • Trimble GNSS GPS Uses • Navigation: – Air & sea navigation – Emergency Services Locating – Airplane landing systems – Car-based direction services. • Mapping – People & places – Animal/plant locations – Historical Markers! GPS Unit Turn on & lock onto signals • Push Power Button & Wait To get past splash screen For training inside – turn on simulation mode Press Menu Press Enter Satellites’ position in the Satellite constellation Satellite Accuracy Satellite Signal Strength Degree Minute Second Coordinate system Decimal Degrees Coordinate system To change coordinate systems – Press Menu Twice Press quit twice To return to main screen Some GPS tips: • Know how to read the accuracy of the GPS and obtain the most accurate readings. • Thick trees and buildings block GPS receivers from receiving signals from satellites. • Be patient. GPS units require 5-10 minutes to obtain a location after being turned on. The MKH Team Packet • GARMIN GPS 72 • Instruction Manuals • Morehead State University Pencil • File Folder – Obtaining GPS Coordinate Flowchart – Historical Marker Data Entry Form – Brochures – Free pass to Kentucky History Center Data Entry Form Elevation 1 Latitude/ Longitude Degrees Elevation 2 Latitude/ Longitude Minutes Latitude/ Longitude Decimal Degrees Known Location Description Latitude/ Longitude Seconds Data Entry Form Marker Text Front Marker Text Back Data Entry Form Email Photos Photo and Additional Comments Tell us about yourself Entering Data Any Questions?! Height Modernization in Kentucky Rebuilding Kentucky’s mapping infrastructure Kentucky Place Names Project GNIS Geographic Names Information System “Words have meaning and Names have power” -Anonymous All Features Great And Small Thank You The Kentucky Center for Geospatial Education, Research, & Outreach kcgero.org Institute for Regional Analysis and Public Policy (IRAPP) Center of Excellence, MSU A Kentucky Program of Distinction http://irapp.morehead-st.edu Let’s map!