SAI BLOSSOMS

Friday, July 07, 2006

Global Positioning System
  • The Global Positioning System, usually called GPS, is the only
    fully-functional satellite navigation system. A constellation of more
    than two dozen GPS satellites broadcasts precise timing signals by
    radio to GPS receivers, allowing them to accurately determine their
    location (longitude, latitude, and altitude) in any weather, day or
    night, anywhere on Earth.
  • GPS has become a vital global utility, indispensable for modern
    navigation on land, sea, and air around the world, as well as an
    important tool for map-making, and land surveying. GPS also provides an
    extremely precise time reference, required for telecommunications and
    some scientific research, including the study of earthquakes.
  • United States Department of Defense developed the system, officially
    named NAVSTAR GPS (Navigation Signal Timing and Ranging GPS), and the
    satellite constellation is managed by the 50th Space Wing at Schriever
    Air Force Base. Although the cost of maintaining the system is
    approximately US$400 million per year, including the replacement of
    aging satellites, GPS is available for free use in civilian
    applications as a public good.
  • In late 2005, the first in a series of next-generation GPS satellites
    was added to the constellation, offering several new capabilities,
    including a second civilian GPS signal called L2C for enhanced accuracy
    and reliability. In the coming years, additional next-generation
    satellites will increase coverage of L2C and add a third and fourth
    civilian signal to the system, as well as advanced military
    capabilities.

Tuesday, July 04, 2006

Vedic gods and directions

Each cardinal and intercardinal space of a plot has a presiding Vedic god who has his own direction. Accordingly, in compliance with the Vaastu principles, each god plays a vital role in the well being of the family members.

 East is considered as the direction for Indra who is the Vedic description of renewal.
 West belongs to the lord of water, Varuna
 Kubera, the Vedic god of the wealth and health (Ayurveda medicine) presides over the North.
 South is presided over by Yama, the lord of death who guards our soul which is eternal.
 The southeast is occupied by Agni, the god of fire (heat and temperature)
 The god of Knowledge and spiritual wealth Soma presides over the northeast.
 The southwest is taken by Nirti who is the cause of longevity.
 The northwest is the place of Vayu, god of wind who is responsible in circulating the cosmic energy.
 Brahma the creator governs the central area which is also said to be the belly of the Vaastu purusha.