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The Global Positioning System (GPS) transformed how we navigate, measure, and determine positions on Earth. One of the key figures behind this achievement is Dr. Bradford Parkinson, widely recognized as the Father of GPS.

In 2018, Parkinson received the IEEE Medal of Honor in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the development of GPS, a technology that has profoundly influenced navigation, geodesy, and professional land surveying.

From GPS to Modern Surveying

For land surveyors, GPS—and subsequently modern Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)—changed the way geodetic control networks are established and positions are determined.

Today, GNSS supports applications ranging from RTK surveying and construction positioning to geospatial mapping and infrastructure monitoring.

These capabilities build upon decades of scientific research, engineering development, and contributions from pioneers such as Brad Parkinson.

Watch the IEEE Tribute

IEEE.tv presents a video highlighting Parkinson’s contributions and the development of GPS.

Video: Brad Parkinson — IEEE Medal of Honor 2018

The evolution of satellite positioning is a reminder that modern surveying technologies are built upon fundamental principles of measurement, reference systems, and geodesy.

Source: IEEE.tv — Brad Parkinson, IEEE Medal of Honor 2018.