The International Astronautical Federation (IAF) celebrates the 60th anniversary of its foundation. The 60th Anniversary Award of the organization goes to the Global Positioning System (GPS), nominated by the American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). The GPS has earned the acknowledgment because it demonstrates that the implementation of space exploration and space science benefits humanity on an every day basis.

The construction of the Global Positioning System was ordered by the US Department of Defence in 1973, creating a network of satellites possible of providing information to determine accurate time and location anywhere on the face of the Earth, where at least 4 satellite signals are available. The system currently operates with 30 satellites, and since 1996 it is avaiable for civilian use worldwide.

IAF’s press release emphasizes: GPS is an increasingly vital part of several critical infrastructures for air transportation, maritime shipping, electrical power, communications. With the help of GPS the reaction to emergency situations has become more effective at global, national and local levels. Thousands of people including members of the Department of Defense, private industry, academia and countless others invested their best efforts to create and improve GPS capabilities. The award is an honor to the their dedicated efforts spreading over forty years.

„From in-car satnav to disaster relief, from cellular telephony to air traffic control, GPS is an application which is a central part of the lives of nearly every person in the world” – appreciated IAF President Berndt Feurbacher the success of the system.

The Award will be presented at the 62nd International Astronautical Congress in Cape Town.