UTM Mapping Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) is a type of map projection where location can be given with varying numerical accuracy UTM maps are divided using the metric system. This system is ideal for ground operations on foot, since distances walked (meters) can easily be measured and plotted on the map. No two grids will have the same number.

Reading gridded maps: Read Right, then Up The lines of a gridded map form small squares 1000m on each side called grid squares The East-West number represents the first half of the grid coordinate, and the North-South number is the other half. The least accurate grid reference is four digits: it represents the bottom left corner of a 1000m x 1000m square Read Right, Then Up: The East-West coordinate of the yellow box is 05 The North-South coordinate is 12 The yellow box’s grid location is Sample Map Grid

For Better Accuracy: Each 1000m x 1000m grid square can be divided into 100m smaller squares with an accuracy of 100m. One number is added to each half of the grid coordinate Always remember to begin your reading from the southwest (bottom left) corner of the grid Digit Accuracy: Add one number to each half of the grid coordinate to get an accuracy of 100m Point 1: Point 2: Point 3:

8-Digit Accuracy On most maps, an 8-digit coordinate will be the most accurate point you can get. 8-digit coordinates provide an accuracy of 10m. To get an 8-digit coordinate, use a gridder or a mental estimate to add one more digit to each half of your six digit coordinate, remembering to measure right, then up.

Sample Iron Man ES Course Coordinates Point 1: Point 2: Point 3: Point 4: Point 5: Point 6: Point 7: Point 8: Point 9: Point 10: Point 11: Solutions Point 1: __A6___ Point 2:___H5___ Point 3:__K3___ (ELT Bearing 195) Point 4:___L1___ (ELT Bearing 223) Point 5:__M7__ Point 6:___A9___ Point 7:___H4___ (ELT Bearing 340) Point 8:__C6___ Point 9:___D2__ (ELT Bearing 073) Point 10:__A9___ Point 11:___B3__ Estimated ELT Location: ___ ________