Pause for a moment and consider this scenario: What if you were lost in an endless ocean of water? Your first thoughts might be to use the GPS navigation system you would use when land is in sight. But is it possible to use GPS when stranded in the ocean? In this article, we will take a closer look at how GPS technology works at sea and how it can aid in your survival, instead of being lost for eternity.
Understanding the Essence of GPS
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a highly advanced satellite-based navigation system that tracks users using 30 or more satellites orbiting the Earth. Unlike other navigation methods that depend on radio signals or cellular networks, GPS technology effortlessly tracks and navigates hundreds of users on Earth based on satellites orbiting. Your GPS device calculates the signal counters from the satellites to position your coordinates in real-time. In principle, GPS should function in the ocean the same way it does on land.
Is it Possible to Utilize GPS While Lost at Sea?
It is possible because there is no reliance on cell towers or internet connections. As long as your GPS device is functional and has a clear view of the sky, it can determine your location. The issue, however, is that knowing your location does not magically summon help. You will need a method to send your coordinates, and therein lies the issue.
Difficulties of Employing GPS in the Open Ocean
Although GPS works in the ocean, fully utilizing it depends on a few important issues:
Your Device and Battery Life
Most smartphones are loaded with GPS functionality, but they depend on GPS, WiFi, and cell towers working together to provide positioning. The lack of cell service in the ocean will render your phone’s GPS useful but will limit its battery life severely. In survival situations, handheld GPS devices or marine GPS units are preferable as they possess greater durability, provided they are waterproof and have a long battery life.
Lacks Integrated Communication System
A GPS device does not send “Assistance Required” signals by itself, so simply knowing your position is of no use. If you do not possess a satellite communicator or an emergency beacon, you will have a problem transmitting the coordinates you know.
Bad Weather Conditions and Signal Blockage
Some rough clouds, storms, and even turbulent waters can occasionally pose a problem for GPS signals, making it difficult for devices to lock onto satellites and obtain the requisite signals.
How to Use a GPS for Extractions From Difficult Situations
Being stranded in the middle of an ocean is not easy; having a GPS is useful, but not enough. Here is how you can better utilize your GPS to increase your chances of survival:
Apply an Emergency Beacon (EPIRB or PLB)
Distress situations at sea can be made easier with devices like Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) or even Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs). Attempting to activate these devices sends the satellite your location information, allowing their GPS tracking to lock onto your location ensuring your extraction from the situation. These devices increase the chances of being located by a significant amount.
Satellite communication devices are also worth a try
In case of emergencies, devices like the Garmin inReach or SPOT Messenger can be used, these devices can ESR support and relay important messages with ease. These devices should be used by anyone venturing into open waters, as they allow using GPS for navigation and raising alarms while cruising, along with communicating with the people trying to rescue them.
Awaiting Help with Only a Smartphone GPS
If you find yourself with nothing but a smartphone and no signal, everything comes down to preserving battery life. Go on ‘airplane’ mode to avoid draining juice while waiting. You could check the GPS for coordinates from time to time. In case you happen to spot a passing plane or ship and have the ability to communicate with them within range of written messages, you can coordinate your positioning.
Survival Tips While Stranded in the Ocean
While awaiting help, follow these important procedures to remain alive and improve the chances of rescue:
- When possible, remain within reach of your vessel or any floating debris because they are easier to locate than smaller objects.
- Energy, alongside water, should be rationed. Move as little as possible to conserve energy.
- Make use of bright clothing or reflective items to aid aircraft and vessels in spotting you.
- If a plane passes, make use of mirrors, flashlights, or hand signaling to ask for assistance.
- Always remain composed and focused while ensuring that GPS resources are used properly in decision-making.
FAQs
Does my phone’s GPS work in the ocean?
Yes, but the answer would be no if there was no way to send your location out. Phones have very few ways of transmitting GPS data and being in the open ocean, the cellular network would not help in any way.
If I am lost at sea, can GPS help me get back to land?
Not directly. GPS can give out coordinates, but without a map or a navigation system, there will always be uncertainty on where land actually might be. A marine GPS device with offline maps is best for this purpose.
What is the most suitable GPS device for surviving at sea?
Without a doubt, an EPIRB or PLB is the best survival tool, as it sends distress signals containing GPS coordinates. Other excellent options are satellite communicators, such as Garmin inReach.
What techniques can be employed to prolong GPS battery life during emergencies?
Shut down some apps, activate airplane mode, dim the screen, restrict GPS to when it’s necessary, and if you can, use a solar charger.
Do search and rescue units automatically track individuals via GPS?
Ordinarily, no, unless an emergency beacon or a satellite communicator is activated. Without these devices, rescuers are not able to track regular GPS devices unless a distress signal along with position coordinates are sent.
Conclusion:
Can I use GPS if I am stranded in the middle of the ocean? GPS does function over water, but it is not the complete solution. You would still need a way to send your location out to the rescuers. By having satellite communication devices, emergency beacons, and even survival knowledge, everything can change. If planning a trip over the ocean, always have the right tools on standby because being in the middle of the ocean without proper preparation can make the difference between life and death.
