GPS Navigation Basics

GPS Global Positioning System is essential for accurate location recording in the field. Coordinate Systems Geographic Coordinates Latitude and longitude in degrees, minutes, seconds or decimal degrees. UTM Universal Transverse Mercator Metric grid system commonly used in mining: - Zone number 1-60 - Easting meters from zone meridian - Northing meters from equator Local Mine Grids Custom coordinate systems used at operating mines. GPS Best Practices - Wait for satellite lock minimum 4 satellites - Record accuracy reading - Use external antenna in heavy cover - Verify coordinates against known control points - Record datum usually WGS84

All lessons in Field Mapping — Return to the complete Field Mapping course outline.
Previous lesson: Introduction to Field Mapping — Geological field mapping is the systematic documentation of rock types, structures, and relationships observed in the field.
Next lesson: Compass and Clinometer Use — The geological compass is the primary tool for measuring structural orientations. Strike and Dip Strike The horizontal line formed by the intersection of…

Verification resources

Cross-check terminology, classification, methods, and safety with these authoritative external resources.

Geoscience maps — Natural Resources Canada. Government bedrock, surficial, geochemical, glacial, and hazard map resources.
National Geologic Map Database — U.S. Geological Survey. Geologic maps, reports, standards, and mapping resources from geological surveys.

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GPS Navigation Basics

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Verification resources