Latest GPS IIF satellite now in orbit

The ninth GPS IIF satellite is safely in orbit and sending signals following its launch on 25 March aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.

The GPS IIF-9, designated as SVN-71, will undergo on-orbit testing and checkout before beginning full operation.

Boeing, ULA and the US Air Force successfully launched four GPS IIFs last year, the highest tempo for more than 20 years. The latest launch is the first of three planned for 2015.

The IIF series satellites are advancing and modernising the GPS constellation by improving accuracy, signal strength and anti-jamming capability.

The series also introduces the L-5 civilian ‘safety-of-life’ signal, intended mainly for aviation and transportation.

Boeing has served as a prime contractor on GPS since the program’s inception, contributing multiple generations of GPS satellites and accruing more than 525 years of on-orbit operation.