Field Navigation: GPS and Paintball

Introduction

Using a GPS has become part of the mainstream in the world of navigation. This exercise was similar to the previous weeks exercise, but now the groups were using GPS units instead of  maps and compasses. The Priory was again the area of navigation. Another added bonus to this exercise was the implementation of paintball markers.

Methods

Before this navigation exercise the groups had to recreate the navigation maps of the previous exercise. The maps had some added features this time. The most notable of the additions was a path of travel. Each group seemed to have a path of travel to each point. This was also something new. Every group had to go to every point instead of a few selected points, but the starting points were different. Each group determined their own path and went with it. The maps that were created in ArcMap were imported into a Juno Trimble GPS and were used in the mobile Arc variant that is ArcPad.  The group moved along the path to each point.

Figure 1: Me, Eric Fabian, checking if the paintball marker is ready for use

 Navigation

Our group had point 10 as our starting point. This point was on the opposite side of the Priory and our group made quite a trek to the starting point. The GPS points were exactly where they were supposed to be. The route of travel went through the very wooded area and travel was quite treacherous. For added protection we had our paintball markers. It was not until our second point that we met another group and had to open fire. I believe that the group already had their point and retreated. The point were still difficult to find as moving with the GPS can still be tricky to read.

Figure 2: The groups map and points. One can see that the points are a bit off but that is due to numerous reasons.

Discussion

Added paintball markers was a fun addition. The GPS unit to me was still a bit difficult to read and navigating through the woods was still the same as the previous week. I think that compared to one another the GPS may be only slightly more helpful but a map and a compass definitely fulfills the need of travel.

Conclusion

Using a GPS to navigate has become the mainstay of today. GPS points can be accurately found in a timely manner as long as navigated correctly. The area to me plays the most on navigation. Being able to have this skill and being able to teach it also helps.