The History of GPS Technology
By Mokshith Naik
Developer & Creator of Online Speedometer
Testing Note by Mokshith: As a web developer building location-based software, researching the historical evolution of satellite navigation from 1970s military technology to standard HTML5 browser APIs was a fascinating journey.
From Cold War Military Asset to Public Utility
The Global Positioning System began in 1973 as a United States Department of Defense project (NAVSTAR). Designed for sub-surface submarine tracking and military navigation, the first satellite launched in 1978.
In 1983, President Ronald Reagan opened civilian access following the tragic loss of Korean Air Lines Flight 007, ensuring global transport safety.
Today, HTML5 Geolocation APIs allow web browsers to access GPS chips directly, bringing military-grade satellite metrics to simple web apps like Online Speedometer.
About the Author
Mokshith Naik — Creator of Online Speedometer
Mokshith is the developer behind Online Speedometer. He builds privacy-focused web tools and personally tests GPS speed metrics across cycling, driving, and running routes.
✉️ Contact Author: mokshithnaik67@gmail.com