In 1956, West joined the U.S. Naval Proving Ground in Dahlgren, Virginia (now known as the Naval Surface Warfare Center), where she worked as a programmer and mathematician. Notably, she was one of only a few Black employees and one of the very few women in her workplace, highlighting the racial and gender barriers she continuously overcame. Her career at the Navy was dedicated to mathematical modeling, which played an essential role in advancing satellite geodesy.
West’s most significant contribution was her work on developing an accurate mathematical model of the Earth’s shape, known as a geoid. This was no small feat, as the Earth is not a perfect sphere, and accounting for factors like gravitational anomalies, tidal forces, and topographical variations required complex calculations. By programming the IBM 7030 "Stretch" computer, one of the most advanced computers of its time, West's work provided the necessary data for a geodetic model, which became the foundation for GPS technology. Her calculations allowed for the precise determination of locations anywhere on Earth.
Additionally, West contributed to the Seasat satellite project, which used radar altimetry to measure ocean surface heights. The data from this project further refined her geodetic models, enhancing the accuracy of GPS. Despite the groundbreaking nature of her work, Dr. West's contributions were largely unrecognized for decades. Only recently has she received widespread recognition, earning numerous honors, including induction into the Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame.
Dr. Gladys West’s legacy is a powerful example of perseverance, intellect, and the impact of science on global technology. Her work has revolutionized navigation, proving her place as a pioneer in technological advancement.
Dr. Gladys West: The Mathematician Behind GPS Technology
