Ultrasonic detectors provide more accurate mapping of the surroundings at short range, for example when parking.

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Campaigners have pressed for a wide range of public data, from mapping information to MPs' expenses, to be made available on the web.

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There is no doubt that the range, accuracy and personalised nature of digital mapping will increase, and that mapping companies will become even integral to our lives.

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The satellite will have a number of viewing modes that will enable it to perform a wide range of roles, from flood monitoring and land cover classification to disaster mapping and maritime enforcement - notably ship tracking and oil spill detection.

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