Deforestation linked to agricultural sourcing has become increasingly difficult to track at scale, especially in regions where cocoa farming is fragmented and oversight on the ground is limited. To address this challenge, Airbus Defence and Space is supplying satellite-driven analytical capabilities to Barry Callebaut, enabling the company to independently observe land-use changes connected to cocoa cultivation.

Instead of relying on local declarations or periodic audits, Barry Callebaut now uses continuous earth-observation data to assess environmental conditions around its cocoa-growing areas worldwide. The approach shifts forest monitoring from a reactive process to an ongoing verification mechanism built on space infrastructure.

The monitoring architecture is powered by Starling, a geospatial analysis system that processes optical satellite observations captured at different spatial resolutions. By combining wide-area imagery with very high-detail views, the platform can detect subtle changes in vegetation cover and flag potential forest loss near farming zones before damage escalates.

This capability allows Barry Callebaut to examine environmental exposure not only at the level of individual suppliers, but across entire sourcing landscapes. The result is a consolidated picture of where pressure on forests is increasing and where mitigation efforts should be prioritized.

For Airbus, the project demonstrates how satellite observation can be applied beyond traditional aerospace or defense use cases. By translating raw imagery into actionable intelligence, the company enables global manufacturers to maintain visibility across complex operations that span multiple countries and regulatory environments.

Satellite-based assessment also reduces dependence on manual reporting, which can be inconsistent or delayed. Continuous observation strengthens traceability, supports internal decision-making, and provides documented evidence of environmental due diligence in regions where physical inspections are impractical.

The initiative aligns with Barry Callebaut’s long-term sourcing strategy under its Forever Chocolate commitments, which emphasize responsible production and forest protection. Integrating space-derived data into internal monitoring systems allows the company to identify environmental risks earlier and respond with targeted corrective actions.

As regulatory expectations around deforestation-free supply chains continue to tighten, satellite intelligence is increasingly becoming a core operational tool rather than an optional sustainability add-on. The Airbus–Barry Callebaut collaboration reflects this shift toward real-time environmental accountability supported by space technology.

Articles

Airbus Uses Satellite Intelligence to Help Barry Callebaut Eliminate Deforestation Risks

Europe has quietly completed another step in securing long-term access to satellite navigation by inserting two fresh spacecraft into orbit in mid-December. The launch, carried out using an Ariane 6 vehicle on December 17, forms part of a broader effort to preserve strategic autonomy in positioning and timing services.

Rather than expanding coverage, the mission addresses a different challenge: system renewal. Several early Galileo satellites are nearing the end of their service life, making replacement a necessity rather than an upgrade. The newly launched units belong to the final wave of first-generation spacecraft and are intended to sustain continuity rather than introduce new capabilities.

Satellite navigation has shifted from a specialized tool to a background utility embedded across modern infrastructure. Transport automation, supply-chain coordination, emergency services, power distribution, and secure communications now depend on uninterrupted timing and location data. As reliance grows, even short disruptions carry significant consequences.

Galileo supports these functions at scale, underpinning daily operations for users worldwide. Maintaining reliability at that level depends as much on system management as on the satellites themselves.

The operational backbone of the program lies on the ground. Galileo’s control architecture, designed and operated by GMV, does far more than track spacecraft. It continuously evaluates satellite condition, adjusts orbital behavior, and safeguards signal performance to keep the network aligned as a single system.

These activities are coordinated from control centers in Germany and Italy, where teams oversee trajectory updates, maneuver execution, and integrity monitoring. This centralized oversight allows Galileo to function as a unified navigation service rather than a fragmented collection of orbiting assets.

After separation from the launch vehicle, GMV specialists also managed the early post-launch phase, confirming spacecraft status and guiding their transition into routine operation. Errors at this stage can ripple through the network, making early validation a critical safeguard against future instability.

With the satellites now integrated, Europe reinforces its ability to operate Galileo independently while laying the groundwork for future generational upgrades to the system.

Galileo Expands Constellation With Two New Satellites After Ariane 6 Launch

Access to detailed geographic information across Europe has taken a step toward simplification with the completion of the Open Maps For Europe 2 initiative, which has finalized a shared spatial resource spanning multiple countries.

The finished release makes it possible to view and use large-scale mapping information from ten European states within a single environment, removing the usual need to consult separate national systems. The material covers key spatial elements such as borders, transport routes, and surface water features, all aligned to a unified spatial framework.

Instead of stitching together maps maintained independently by different authorities, the project rebuilt the data into a common structure. Public records from land administration, cartographic, and cadastral bodies were processed through a centralized workflow designed to smooth inconsistencies where national datasets typically fail to align at borders. The result is a continuous geographic representation that can be accessed through one platform rather than multiple national portals.

This effort was carried out through collaboration among several European bodies responsible for official geographic information. EuroGeographics played a coordinating role, working alongside mapping and cadastral institutions from a number of EU member states, each contributing verified source material and technical expertise.

Project leaders say the approach demonstrates how cross-border geographic information can be made easier to use without forcing users to manage different formats, technical standards, or access points. By handling alignment and harmonization at the production stage, the system reduces the complexity normally associated with multinational spatial analysis.

The final output prioritizes three categories of information that consistently rank highest among public-sector and professional users: territorial administration, transport infrastructure, and inland water systems. These layers are intended to serve as a practical foundation for future Europe-wide spatial services, supporting policy implementation at the EU level and reflecting internationally recognized principles for core geospatial data.

Open Maps For Europe 2 Expands Coverage With Final High-Value Data Release

Modern golf is no longer played on intuition alone. A golfer today steps onto the course with an app, a watch, and a stream of live data that reshapes every decision — from club selection to scorekeeping. A best golf GPS app is no longer just a digital map; it’s a personal performance assistant that follows every shot, every hole, and every round.

We ran a hands-on test of leading golf apps to understand how each performs in real conditions — measuring distance accuracy, shot tracking reliability, Apple Watch integration, battery impact, and overall usefulness for different types of players.

Arccos Caddie: Shot Tracking That Learns Your Golf Game

For golfers who want numbers instead of guesses, Arccos sits in a class of its own. Rather than relying on manual input, this golf GPS app works with dedicated sensors that attach to each club, allowing the system to record shots automatically.

Every swing, miss, and recovery becomes part of a growing performance profile. Over time, the app builds a statistical model of your golf game and uses strokes gained analysis to highlight where shots are lost — whether it’s approach play, short game, or putting.

Automatic shot-tracking with no manual logging;

Highly accurate yardages to greens and hazards;

Advanced analysis that adapts to your playing style;

Seamless Apple Watch support for on-course use.

This isn’t a completely free setup — sensors and a premium membership are required — but for golfers focused on measurable improvement, the tradeoff delivers serious value.

Motocaddy GPS App: Free Golf GPS That Keeps Things Simple

Not every golfer wants sensors, subscriptions, or advanced analysis. Motocaddy’s golf app strips things back to essentials and does them well. It’s completely free, easy to download, and designed for golfers who just want reliable distances without complexity.

The app provides clear yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green, along with hazard locations and basic hole layouts. It covers tens of thousands of golf courses worldwide and runs efficiently even during long rounds.

It won’t track shots automatically, but for players who prefer simplicity over data overload, it proves that you don’t need to pay to get dependable GPS golf distances.

Hole19: A Golf App Built for Apple Watch Players

Hole19 earns its reputation by balancing features and accessibility. This golf GPS app works equally well on smartphones and Apple Watch, letting players leave their phone in the bag while tracking distances and scores directly from the wrist.

Offline maps, smooth performance, and strong smartwatch integration make it especially appealing to golfers who want flexibility during a round. Shot distances can be logged manually, while premium tools unlock deeper stats and insights.

Accurate distances to the green and hazards;

Optional premium membership for advanced stats.

Hole19 fits golfers who want GPS, scorekeeping, and smartwatch convenience without committing to a complex ecosystem.

Bushnell Golf App: Rangefinder Accuracy in App Form

Bushnell’s reputation in laser rangefinders carries over into its golf GPS app. Instead of focusing on advanced shot tracking, the app emphasizes clarity, reliability, and clean visual layouts.

Distances are accurate, hole views are easy to read, and scorekeeping is straightforward. Golfers already familiar with Bushnell devices will feel immediately comfortable using the app.

Golfers who prefer clean displays over analytics;

It’s a practical option for golfers who value consistency and trust proven hardware brands.

Golfshot: GPS Golf with Augmented Reality

Golfshot takes a different route by combining GPS data with augmented reality. By using your phone’s camera, the app overlays targets, hazards, and landing zones onto the live course view.

This creates a visual way to plan shots that goes beyond traditional maps. Golfshot also includes scorekeeping, detailed stats, and strong Apple Watch support.

Accurate real-time distances during tournaments;

Golfers who enjoy visual aids and modern technology will appreciate how Golfshot reshapes course navigation.

VPAR: Competitive Golf and Tournament Tracking

VPAR isn’t just about yardages — it’s about competition. Alongside GPS distances, the app allows golfers to create matches, join tournaments, and follow live leaderboards.

Formats like stroke play, match play, and Stableford are fully supported, making it ideal for club events and social golf.

Players who enjoy live scoring and rankings.

While shot data remains basic, the social and competitive features give VPAR a distinct identity.

How to Choose the Best Golf GPS App for Your Game

There’s no universal answer to which app is “best.” The right choice depends on how you play.

Reliable distances to greens, hazards, and targets are non-negotiable. Look for regularly updated course maps.

Golfers chasing a lower handicap benefit from shot-tracking and post-round analysis.

A user-friendly interface matters. The best app lets you focus on your swing — not menus.

Smartwatch support reduces phone dependency and improves on-course convenience.

Some apps are free, others require a premium membership. Decide which features actually improve your golf.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Golf GPS App

There is no single “perfect” golf GPS solution. Some golfers want automatic shot-tracking systems like Arccos. Others prefer free, no-frills apps like Motocaddy. Many fall somewhere in between.

What matters is choosing a best golf GPS app that fits how you play — whether that means tracking every shot, managing scores, or simply getting accurate distances to the green.

When the right app is in your pocket or on your watch, every round becomes easier to manage, easier to analyze, and more enjoyable to play.

Do Golf GPS Apps Work Without Internet Access?

Yes. Most apps allow course maps to be downloaded in advance and used offline during a round.

Modern GPS apps provide yardages accurate enough for competitive play, thanks to improved mapping and satellite data.

Can Golf GPS Apps Be Used on Apple Watch?

Many leading apps support Apple Watch, allowing distance checks, scorekeeping, and shot logging directly from the wrist.

Best Golf GPS App Test: How Golf Apps, Apple Watch and Smart Devices Change the Game

Understanding on-chain information through tables and timestamps can overwhelm even experienced cryptocurrency enthusiasts. Unlike traditional blockchain explorers, which bury users under thousands of entries, Bubblemaps is a blockchain analytics platform that reimagines how wallet activity and token flow can be presented. Instead of reading raw logs, Bubblemaps transforms the data into an interactive bubble map where each bubble corresponds to a wallet, and the entire structure reveals patterns instantly.

Across ecosystems such as Solana, Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Cronos, and Arbitrum, the platform offers a modern form of blockchain data visualization that highlights connections between bubbles, making it easier to understand ownership concentration, emerging risks, and insights into market trends. Bubblemaps stands as a powerful tool for traders, analysts, and anyone navigating the world of blockchain.

What Is Bubblemaps? A Fresh Look at Token Data Across Multiple Networks

Founded by Nicolas Vaiman, Arnaud Droz, and Léo Pons, the company is registered in Paris and designed to rethink how users interpret on-chain analytics. Instead of listing wallets in text rows, Bubblemaps offers colourful bubble formations where linked bubbles act as a visual guide to how tokens move.

Each bubble corresponds to a specific wallet.

Its size shows the amount of tokens held.

Lines illustrate transactions between addresses, revealing clusters and unusual wallet interactions.

This approach is compatible with seven blockchains, and when a user selects a token, Bubblemaps opens the native explorer for the blockchain, allowing users to track the token on external tools such as DEX Screener and DEXTools. Because Bubblemaps provides a visual layer on top of raw blockchain activity, users can jump directly from a project map to the official project website or review a list of the tokens associated with that ecosystem.

Where traditional explorers fail to show meaningful structure, Bubblemaps makes behavioural patterns visible at a glance.

Why Bubblemaps Matters for Token Distribution and Wallet Connections

In the crypto market, token ecosystems often look fair until mapped visually. Bubblemaps provides a dramatically clearer representation of token distributions and wallet connections, exposing clusters, dominance patterns, and potential insider trading behaviour.

whether token holders are evenly spread or concentrated;

if interconnected bubbles suggest coordinated strategies;

whether unusual trading activity indicates trading bots or manipulation;

how early wallets influence later market behaviour.

For developers, investors, and analysts, Bubblemaps is a must-have tool. Its clarity and simplicity have made it an essential platform for detecting scams and market manipulation before they escalate.

How to Use Bubblemaps: A Practical Walkthrough

1. Start with a token or address — use Bubblemaps search

Entering a ticker, contract, or web3 wallet generates a full bubble map. This includes:

a list of the tokens associated with that project;

the list of wallets displayed on the right;

a structured view of 500 of the largest portfolios;

and quick links to the official project website and native explorer.

Users can also browse a list of all the projects indexed on Bubblemaps and jump between them easily.

large bubbles representing major holders;

connections between bubbles showing past transfers;

clusters that might stem from whales, insiders or automated systems.

This model replaces the list of portfolios typically shown on traditional explorers. Bubblemaps also lets users update the data or check a list of available dates, making historical comparison simple.

3. Recognizing healthy or risky structures

tight interconnected bubbles with repeated activity;

accumulation patterns resembling coordinated dumping strategies.

4. Advanced features for deeper blockchain analytics

Magic Nodes to reveal hidden relationships;

Time Travel providing historical data of distributions;

and the ability to compare ecosystems side by side.

These features elevate Bubblemaps from a simple viewer to a full blockchain analytics platform.

Bubblemaps in the Solana and Ethereum Ecosystem

Solana: acceleration and early accumulation

Solana’s low-cost environment makes it particularly vulnerable to early concentration. Bubblemaps helps identify whether VC allocations dominate, how early holders behave, and whether wallet clusters foreshadow volatility. Tokens like Moonlight famously displayed more than 250 billion Moonlight tokens in interconnected clusters — a pattern spotted easily through Bubblemaps v2.

Ethereum: complexity and high-value networks

Ethereum's DeFi and NFT landscape produces enormous data volume. Bubblemaps transforms that data into readable structures, allowing users to track whale accumulation, DEX interactions, suspicious wallet patterns, and liquidity movements. For Ethereum-based assets, Bubblemaps is a blockchain analytics backbone that simplifies market interpretation.

BMT Token: Utility and Role in the Bubblemaps Ecosystem

The BMT token powers many features inside the platform. With a total supply of one billion tokens, BMT:

and fuels internal mechanics that improve platform efficiency.

During Bubblemaps v2, early adopters received tokens via a drop system. When the Moonlight migration occurred, holders could convert their balances into BMT at a fixed rate.

Nansen (wallet profiling & behavioural analytics);

Arkham Intelligence (AI-driven identity clustering);

However, none of these platforms can replace the visual clarity Bubblemaps provides.
Its bubble maps have become an essential way to study how wallets on the market interact.

Final Thoughts: Why Bubblemaps Is a Must-Have

Whether tracking DeFi tokens, NFTs, or cryptocurrencies across multiple chains, users rely on Bubblemaps because it simplifies the world of blockchain. Bubblemaps stands out by transforming raw blockchain information into accessible visuals that expose wallet structures, possible manipulation, and meaningful market patterns.

With broad compatibility, an intuitive interface, and deep analytics support, Bubblemaps is a must-have for anyone who needs accurate and timely insight into the behaviour of blockchain ecosystems.

Bubble Maps: Solana Token Tracking with Blockchain Data Visualization. Interactive bubble maps for Solana token distribution analytics. Explore wallet connections and blockchain data.

Crypto

Bubble Maps: Solana Token Tracking with Blockchain Data Visualization

In 2025, a navigation app is no longer just a digital map — it’s an ai-powered travel assistant that brings together real-time traffic conditions, offline maps, advanced route planning, 3D maps, transit insights, and support for multiple travel modes. Whether you’re behind the wheel, on public transit, cycling, or exploring unfamiliar cities, today’s best navigation apps provide accurate mapping, instant alerts, and gps navigation tools across both Android and iOS.

Below is a concise comparison of the best navigation apps available today, including Google Maps, Waze, Apple Maps, HERE WeGo, Maps.me, CoPilot, Sygic, Komoot, and others.

Modern gps navigation apps combine AI-powered mapping, turn-by-turn directions, real-time data streams, and offline navigation to ensure accurate and reliable travel experiences. These apps analyze road conditions, speed limits, traffic lights, weather patterns, and route closures to suggest the best navigation options for any journey.

How AI and real-time data reshape GPS navigation

AI now predicts traffic jams before they form, improves route accuracy, identifies landmarks, and helps drivers adapt to changing roads faster than ever. Real-time insights allow gps apps to deliver precise alerts and optimize routes dynamically.

Upgraded Google Street View, immersive 3D maps, offline mode improvements, and more detailed mapping make navigation more intuitive and useful for travelers.

Apple Maps: privacy-first mapping & simple route planning

Apple Maps continues improving its mapping accuracy, offering 3D maps, enhanced street view (Look Around), public transit updates, and seamless integration with Siri and Apple CarPlay. Its clean interface helps iOS users access routes and alerts with minimal distraction.

Pros: elegant design, real-time transit info, turn-by-turn directions.

Google Maps: real-time navigation, transit & Street View

Google Maps remains one of the best navigation apps thanks to its detailed mapping, real-time traffic information, Google Assistant integration, public transit routes, cycle travel modes, and robust offline maps. It supports both Android and iOS and is often the default choice for free gps navigation.

Pros: highly accurate mapping, broad POI database, free gps features.

Cons: limited to 10 stops per route, fewer customization options.

Waze: user-powered alerts & fast real-time routes

Waze is designed for drivers who need real-time alerts for speed cameras, hazards, road closures, and unexpected traffic conditions. Because its data comes directly from users, it often delivers faster route updates than traditional GPS navigation apps.

Pros: best-in-class alerts, customizable themes, real-time data.

Cons: supports only 1–2 additional stops.

Best Navigation Apps for Delivery Services

HERE WeGo – offline maps & public transit insights

HERE WeGo stands out with its large catalog of offline maps and detailed transit and parking information. It adapts routes based on your travel mode and is popular among delivery drivers who rely on stable offline navigation.

Pros: reliable offline mode, transit details.

Maps.me – OpenStreetMap-based offline navigation

Maps.me uses OpenStreetMap data and offers lightweight offline maps, making it one of the best navigation apps for battery efficiency. It provides POI, fast routing, and updated map layers contributed by millions of users.

Pros: comprehensive offline mapping, high detail.

Cons: slower recalculation when you miss a turn.

CoPilot GPS – customizable vehicle routing & 3D maps

CoPilot lets drivers customize their routes based on car, RV, or truck type, avoiding restricted roads, low clearances, and narrow streets. It also features offline mode, 3D maps, and turn-by-turn directions.

Cons: premium features require subscription.

Roadtrippers – POIs, long routes & travel modes

Roadtrippers helps travelers explore unique POIs, calculate fuel costs, plan extended routes, and sync with gps navigation apps like Google Maps. Great for multi-day adventures.

MapQuest – classic mapping with real-time alerts

MapQuest offers simple route planning, gas price comparisons, and real-time traffic information. While not as modern as newer apps, it remains useful for basic mapping needs.

inRoute – weather, elevation & smart routing

inRoute analyzes elevation, weather, curves, and road conditions while offering turn-by-turn navigation and multi-stop route planning.

Sygic – offline mode, 3D buildings & speed camera alerts

Sygic supports advanced navigation features like speed camera warnings, AI assistant tools, 3D buildings, a head-up display, and offline maps ideal for road trips.

Komoot provides detailed mapping for hiking, mountain biking, and cycling, offering travel modes, highlights, and offline navigation.

AllTrails – curated outdoor routes & tracking

AllTrails includes verified hiking routes, offline maps, activity tracking, and filtering options by difficulty, length, or elevation.

Polaris GPS Navigation – advanced off-road gps

Polaris is built for off-road navigation, offering compass tools, altitude data, and tracking features powered by detailed GPS sensors.

Spyglass – AR-based navigation & tactical tools

Spyglass uses augmented reality, a mil-spec compass, rangefinder tools, and precise GPS calculations — ideal for advanced outdoor users.

Citymapper – multimodal transit planning

Citymapper excels in urban navigation, helping users compare travel time, cost, and energy across buses, trains, ferries, cycling, and walking. It provides real-time updates and is one of the best apps for public transit commuters.

Choose Maps.me or HERE WeGo → if offline maps matter most.

Choose Waze → if you need the fastest real-time alerts.

Choose Google Maps → for universal mapping, transit, and free gps features.

Choose CoPilot or Badger Maps → for advanced route planning and customization.

Choose Citymapper → for public transport.

Choose Apple Maps → if you prioritize privacy policy and iOS integration.

In 2025, the best navigation apps combine AI-powered mapping, accurate real-time data, and flexible offline navigation across Android and iOS. Whether you rely on Google Maps, Waze, HERE WeGo, Maps.me, or more specialized apps like Sygic or Komoot, the right navigation app will depend on your routes, travel mode, and your need for real-time alerts or offline reliability.

To know which app is best for you, try several — most offer a free trial or free basic features.

Find the best navigation app for Android! Compare mapping & GPS apps like Google Maps & Waze for real-time traffic, navigation, & more.

Best Navigation App? Google Maps, Waze, & GPS for Android

Many field crews rely on GNSS handheld devices every day for mapping assets, collecting environmental observations, or supporting engineering projects. Yet in many cases, these devices are used only at a fraction of their potential. By combining a GNSS handheld with a laser rangefinder and offset workflows, teams can safely capture locations that would otherwise be difficult, time-consuming, or unsafe to survey directly.

Laser offsets allow the operator to stand in a safe or convenient position, measure distance and bearing to a target, and let the software calculate the final coordinate. Instead of fighting with canopy, traffic, water, or steep terrain, the GNSS device becomes the anchor point for a flexible, precision-aware measurement system.

Why Laser Offsets Matter in Everyday Field Work

In real projects, many important features are not directly accessible: pole tops, building corners, trees in dense vegetation, manholes in busy roads, or structures behind fences. Forcing crews to occupy every point with the GNSS receiver can increase risk and extend survey times. Offsets provide a way around these constraints without sacrificing positional quality.

When properly configured, the GNSS handheld records the operator position, while the laser supplies distance, angle, and sometimes vertical information. The field software then resolves the target point and stores it along with attributes, codes, and metadata, just like a standard GNSS observation. This means existing data dictionaries, coding schemes, and export routines can often be reused with minimal change.

Key Components of a Successful Offset Workflow

To get consistent results, several elements must work together. First, the GNSS device must deliver a stable position at the time of measurement — whether through standalone GNSS, SBAS corrections, or higher-accuracy approaches. Second, the laser instrument must be properly calibrated and paired with the handheld, either via cable or wireless connection.

Equally important is the field software. It needs to support different offset methods (distance-bearing, distance-distance, or vertical offsets), handle multiple shots per target when needed, and store all observations with enough metadata for later quality control. Clear prompts and on-screen guidance help technicians follow consistent procedures, reducing human error.

Benefits for Safety, Productivity and Data Quality

From a safety perspective, laser offsets mean fewer trips into traffic lanes, unstable slopes, or water bodies. Crews can work from the shoulder, bank, or sidewalk while still capturing assets in their true locations. Productivity improves because fewer physical occupations are required, and difficult shots no longer cause extended delays.

Data quality also benefits when offsets are integrated thoughtfully. Rather than guessing locations back in the office from imagery or sketches, technicians record precise, traceable measurements in the field. Multiple offset readings can be averaged or checked immediately, while the context of the survey is still fresh.

Perhaps the greatest advantage is that laser-offset workflows extend the life of existing GNSS handheld fleets. Instead of replacing hardware, organizations can add a compatible laser rangefinder and updated software, gaining new capability with limited capital expense.

For teams under pressure to do more with less, learning to combine GNSS and laser offsets is a practical way to modernize field operations, improve safety, and elevate the quality of spatial data without abandoning proven equipment.

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