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!