Mapping Kentucky History
The MKH Challenge
• Obtain geographical coordinates to the Kentucky Roadside Markers
• Use cutting-edge technologies such as Global Positioning Systems and Geographical Information System
• Learn about Kentucky’s rich historical heritage
Kentucky Historical Markers Database
• Maintained by Kentucky Historical Society and Kentucky Department of Transportation
Click on a the map to jump to the interactive map for Kentucky.
Marker Search
Historical MarkersFront Back
WHAT IS GPS?
Global Positioning System - a system of satellites that transmits signals used by special receivers on the ground for precise determination of location, sometimes within meters. Data can include elevation, location, and speed.
Ranging, why are 3 needed?
GPS Satellite
4 needed for 3-D fix
Why is the system not perfect?• Error sources
– Atmospheric– Multipath scatter– Positional error
• Cheap GPS Units– Limited satellite
channels– Poor internal
processors
Obstructions
Bad Luck with Satellites
One solution to the Error – Differential GPS
• Use two receivers to eliminate much of the signal error
• Increases accuracy to a few centimeters with good units
Consumer GPS Hardware (Cheap)
• Consumer-grade– Garmin III plus
• >3 meter accuracy
– eTrex– Garmin V
• <3 meter accuracy 95% of the time
• WAAS
– GPSMAP 60Cx
Survey-Grade GPS (Expensive)
• Survey Grade• Thales Promark2
– Navigation• WAAS <3 m
– Post-processing• <1 cm
– Kinematic• ~1 cm
• Trimble GNSS
GPS Uses• Navigation:
– Air & sea navigation – Emergency Services
Locating– Airplane landing
systems– Car-based direction
services.• Mapping
– People & places– Animal/plant locations– Historical Markers!
GPS Unit
• Push Power Button & Wait
Turn on & lock onto signals
For training inside – turn on simulation
mode
To get past splash screen
Press MenuPress Enter
Degree Minute Second Coordinate system
Satellite Signal
Strength
Satellite AccuracySatellites’
position in the Satellite constellation
Decimal Degrees Coordinate system
To change coordinate systems –Press Menu Twice
Press quit twiceTo return to mainscreen
Some GPS tips:Some GPS tips:
• Know how to read the accuracy of the GPS and obtain the most accurate readings.
• Thick trees and buildings block GPS receivers from receiving signals from satellites.
• Be patient. GPS units require 5-10 minutes to obtain a location after being turned on.
The MKH Team Packet
• GARMIN GPS 72• Instruction Manuals• Morehead State
University Pencil
• File Folder– Obtaining GPS
Coordinate Flowchart– Historical Marker Data
Entry Form– Brochures– Free pass to
Kentucky History Center
Data Entry Form
Latitude/
Longitude Minutes
Latitude/ Longitude Degrees
Latitude/ Longitude Seconds
Latitude/ Longitude Decimal Degrees
Elevation 1
Elevation 2
Known Location
Description
Data Entry FormMarker Text Front
Marker Text Back
Data Entry FormEmail Photos
Photo and AdditionalComments
Tell us about
yourself
Entering Data
Any Questions?!
Height Modernization in Kentucky
Rebuilding Kentucky’s mapping infrastructure
Kentucky Place Names Project
GNISGeographic Names Information System
All Features Great And Small
“Words have meaning and Names have power”
-Anonymous
Thank You
The Kentucky Center for Geospatial Education, Research, & Outreach
kcgero.org
Institute for Regional Analysis and Public Policy (IRAPP)
Center of Excellence, MSUA Kentucky Program of Distinction
http://irapp.morehead-st.edu
Let’s map!