Film Lens
This documentary examines the critical role of GPS technology in modern society, particularly following a significant solar storm that left nearly half of all GPS systems out of service. The film shows the chaos that ensued, including grounded planes, disrupted sea traffic, and halted banking exchanges, illustrating how dependent the world has become on geolocation services. It also reflects on the historical context of GPS, tracing its origins back to the tragic incident of Korean Air Flight 007 in 1983, which was shot down due to a positioning error, leading to increased awareness and accessibility of GPS technology worldwide.
The narrative includes insights from various stakeholders, including those who promote and sell GPS technology, as well as critics who express concerns about privacy and surveillance. The film suggests that GPS is not just a tool for navigation but also a complex system that shapes our lives in ways many may not fully understand. It raises questions about the future of geolocation technology, including ambitious plans for lunar GPS systems, indicating that the imagination surrounding geolocation applications is limitless.
Why Watch
- •Find out how a solar storm disrupted global GPS services.
- •See the impact of GPS on banking and air travel.
- •Meet the voices behind GPS technology and its implications.
Did You Know
•Nearly half of all GPS systems were out of service due to a solar storm.
•269 people died in the Korean Air Flight 007 incident in 1983.
•The New York Stock Exchange had to close because of GPS disruptions.
•Reagan's America offered free access to GPS after the Korean Air incident.
Perfect For
Geolocation technologyCold War historyAviation enthusiastsSpace exploration