What are GPS Coordinates?
GPS coordinates are a set of numerical values that specify a location on the Earth’s surface. These coordinates consist of two components: latitude and longitude. The latitude determines the north-south position, while longitude determines the east-west position. By combining these two values, you can pinpoint any location on the planet with remarkable accuracy.
When would you need to input GPS coordinates into Google Maps?
While addresses and landmarks are commonly used to search for directions, there are situations where GPS coordinates are more suitable. Here are a few scenarios where inputting GPS coordinates becomes handy:
- You are exploring an off-road area with no specific address.
- You want to navigate to a remote destination in a national park or wilderness.
- You need to find a specific geological feature or point of interest.
- You are participating in an outdoor activity such as hiking, geocaching, or stargazing.
How to input GPS coordinates into Google Maps?
Follow these steps to input GPS coordinates into Google Maps and get accurate directions:
- Open Google Maps on your device or visit maps.google.com in your web browser.
- Locate the search bar at the top of the screen and click on it.
- Type or paste the GPS coordinates into the search bar. The format should be in decimal degrees, such as 38.9072° N, 77.0369° W.
- Press the Enter key or click on the search button next to the search bar.
- Google Maps will now display the location corresponding to the GPS coordinates you entered.
- Click on the blue “Directions” button to get the most accurate route to that location from your current position.
Benefits of using GPS coordinates in Google Maps
Using GPS coordinates in Google Maps offers several advantages:
- Increased accuracy: GPS coordinates provide more precise locations than addresses or landmarks.
- Exploring remote areas: When you venture into off-road or wilderness areas, GPS coordinates ensure you reach your desired location.
- Geocaching and outdoor activities: Geocachers and outdoor enthusiasts often rely on GPS coordinates to navigate to hidden treasures and specific points of interest.
- Scientific research: Scientists and researchers frequently need to pinpoint precise locations for their studies, and GPS coordinates help in this regard.
Next time you need directions to a specific location, consider using GPS coordinates in Google Maps for accurate and reliable results. Whether you’re venturing into the great outdoors or exploring urban areas, GPS coordinates can be your trusted guide.