WGS 60
Overview
The World Geodetic System 1960 (WGS 60) is a datum, or coordinate system, developed by the United States Department of Defense (DoD). It was used for geodetic, cartographic, and navigation purposes. WGS 60 was the first in a series of World Geodetic Systems, which were later updated to WGS 66, WGS 72, and the currently used World Geodetic System 1984.
Development
The development of WGS 60 was prompted by the need for a unified, global geodetic system that could be used for both military and civilian purposes. Prior to its creation, different countries used different datums, which could lead to inconsistencies and inaccuracies in mapping and navigation. The DoD, in collaboration with the U.S. Naval Observatory and other international organizations, undertook the task of creating a geodetic system that would be universally accepted and used.
Characteristics
WGS 60 was based on the Geodetic Reference System 1967 (GRS 67), a global geodetic reference system. It used the equatorial radius of the Earth as defined by the GRS 67, and a flattening factor derived from satellite observations. The system was geocentric, meaning it was centered at the Earth's center of mass, and it used the Greenwich meridian as the zero longitude reference.
Usage
WGS 60 was used for a variety of applications, including mapping, navigation, and geodetic surveys. It was also used in the early days of satellite navigation systems, such as the Transit system, which was the precursor to the modern Global Positioning System (GPS).
Limitations and Successor Systems
While WGS 60 represented a significant advancement in global geodesy, it had several limitations. The accuracy of the system was limited by the technology and observational data available at the time. Furthermore, the system did not account for changes in the Earth's shape and size due to tectonic activity and other geological phenomena.
These limitations led to the development of successor systems, starting with WGS 66. Each new version of the World Geodetic System incorporated advancements in technology and more accurate observational data, leading to the current standard, WGS 84.