Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided to control artificial lighting using accurate geographical location, date and time, in order to activate such electrical activity only during needed periods of actual terrestrial darkness related to sun elevation. Accurate, real-time calculation of sun elevation relative to geographical location and date/time allow natural lighting characteristics such as natural light spectrum and intensity to be matched to artificial lighting, in order to provide a smooth transition in ambient lighting and to save energy. An apparatus according to the invention comprises a global positioning system (GPS) element for determining latitude, longitude, altitude, date and time and a calculation element for determining sun elevation angle accurately. A specific embodiment requires only desired sun elevation angle inputs from the user for controlling electrical switches in a control system.

Abstract: A modular reconnaissance capsule or reconnaissance pod is provided that is suitable for deployment by means of an artillery launching platform, such as a conventional 40 mm grenade launcher or 155 mm cannon wherein a parachute is deployed at a pre-calculated observation altitude, the parachute being designed to yield a sufficiently slow rate of descent to permit live video capture and transmission of images as forward observation information. Alternatively, pods according to the invention may also be air dropped from an aircraft, either piloted or pilotless, thus allowing the aircraft to operate at a safe distance and yet provide close reconnaissance even under a cloud cover. Accurate information about targeting dynamics is made available to the user through commercially available products. The invention complements other reconnaissance methods and provides easy-to-use real-time visual information for a desired area of interest.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided to control artificial lighting using accurate geographical location, date and time, in order to activate such electrical activity only during needed periods of actual terrestrial darkness related to sun elevation. Accurate, real-time calculation of sun elevation relative to geographical location and date/time allow natural lighting characteristics such as natural light spectrum and intensity to be matched to artificial lighting, in order to provide a smooth transition in ambient lighting and to save energy. An apparatus according to the invention comprises a global positioning system (GPS) element for determining latitude, longitude, altitude, date and time and a calculation element for determining sun elevation angle accurately. A specific embodiment requires only desired sun elevation angle inputs from the user for controlling electrical switches in a control system.

Abstract: A modular reconnaissance capsule or reconnaissance pod is provided that is suitable for deployment by means of an artillery launching platform, such as a conventional 40 mm grenade launcher or 155 mm cannon wherein a parachute is deployed at a pre-calculated observation altitude, the parachute being designed to yield a sufficiently slow rate of descent to permit live video capture and transmission of images as forward observation information. Alternatively, pods according to the invention may also be air dropped from an aircraft, either piloted or pilotless, thus allowing the aircraft to operate at a safe distance and yet provide close reconnaissance even under a cloud cover. Accurate information about targeting dynamics is made available to the user through commercially available products. The invention complements other reconnaissance methods and provides easy-to-use real-time visual information for a desired area of interest.