7th Boeing GPS IIF satellite launched to orbit and operational

A Global Positioning System (GPS) IIF satellite, launched on 1 August, has sent the signals to controllers that confirm it is currently operating properly within the constellation that millions of people rely on for timing and navigation information.

GPS IIF-7 was launched aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas-5 rocket from Cape Canaveral. It is the seventh of 12 such satellites Boeing has built for the US Air Force, and the third on-orbit delivery this year.

“We are providing our Air Force partner and GPS users with a steady supply of advanced GPS IIFs,” said Craig Cooning, president of Boeing Network & Space Systems. “Our robust launch tempo requires vigilance and attention to detail, and mission success is our top priority. We continue to partner with the Air Force and ULA to effectively execute the launch schedule.”

Boeing and the Air Force will complete the full on-orbit checkout of the satellite next month. The GPS IIFs offer improved signal accuracy, better anti-jamming capability, longer design life and the new civilian L5 signal.

GPS IIF-8, slated for launch during the fourth quarter, arrived at Cape Canaveral on 16 July to undergo final launch preparations.