July 17 is the 20th anniversary of the Global Positioning System (GPS) achieving Full Operational Capability. Used worldwide by civilians, GPS started as a military technology, one that is still integral to military operations. Seven Airmen, averaging 23 years in age, operate GPS for the entire world from Schriever Air Force Base.

In this What New in Aerospace? presentation, Maj. Ben Calhoon, Chief of the Positioning, Navigation and Timing Branch within the Space Operations Division of Headquarters Air Force, will discuss the importance of GPS. The general global population uses GPS on a daily basis. In addition to accurate car, boat, and aircraft navigation, the GPS timing signal also drives ATM/DEBIT card transactions and point-of-sale purchases.  GPS is used in mobile phones, watches, fitness equipment, and more.  Billions of devices and systems across the globe rely on the GPS signal provided at no cost by Air Force Space Command.

This program is made possible through the generous support of Boeing.

How to attend

National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC

6th St. and Independence Ave SW. Washington, DC 20560