Re: [Paddlewise] GPS accuracy

> Getting rid of SA may have been Clinton's greatest gift to kayakers,
> backpackers, et al, who can now really use and rely on GPS technology.
>

Hi Walt and all,

I too am amazed at the better accuracy of my GPS now that SA is turned off, but at
the risk of pontificating, I don't think I would rely on it totally.  I'll stick
to chart and compass also and be pleasantly surprised if the convenience and
accuracy of GPS doesn't undergo some glitches when I most need it i.e.; sunspot
activity, software/hardware glitches, satellite malfunctions in the atomic clocks
on those birds which throw everything else akilter,  local terrorist activity
which cause the gov to reinstate it without notice, and so on.  Even the big ocean
going  tankers and freighters still have a mate come on board at noon, take a noon
sight by sextant, and reduce his sight with the tables.  Partly this is out of
tradition and keeping their hand in, but partly a "backup to backups" if their
electronics fail.  I'm not suggesting that a sextant would be a very useful piece
of kayaking gear, but a compass and chart of the trek be kept current along with
your GPS waypoints as a backup  Or vice versa, however you are inclined.

Will this be Mr. Clinton's greatest legacy........?

-Nick


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