From helping drivers find their destinations to precisely guiding cutting-edge missiles to their intended targets, GPS has seen a wide variety of uses. On a clear Florida night, the U.S. Air Force has successfully launched its fifth GPS satellite onboard a powerful Delta 4 rocket.
The Air Force launched the GPS IIF-5 satellite from Cape Canaveral in Florida aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta 4 rocket. The launch took place at 8:59 p.m. (EST) on Feb. 20. The satellite was built by Boeing and it is the fifth GPS satellite launched as part of a GPS constellation in orbit meant to serve and support a variety of GPS services for both civilian and military use.
The GPS IIF-5 boasts of improved technologies over previous generation GPS satellites. With a more accurate atomic clock, the IIF series of satellites can provide greater accuracy for both navigation and timing. The satellite is also equipped with powerful transmitters to provide a stronger GPS signal that can be used for highly sensitive navigational purposes such as aiding in the navigation of commercial aircraft.
The IIF series of satellites are designed to operate for up to 12 years. Additional upgrades include improved security and anti-jam capabilities that can be used for military vehicles and munitions during combat situations.
"I am pleased with the outcome of today's launch," said the Director of the Space and Missile System Center's GPS directorate Col. Bill Cooley. "The new capabilities provided by the IIF satellites will improve operations, sustainment and overall GPS service for the warfighter, international, commercial and civil communities."
Understandably, the U.S. Air Force has a need for highly accurate, secure and reliable GPS equipment for their various operations around the globe. The GPS constellation managed by the Air Force will be able to provide non-stop, 24-hour GPS services for various applications.
"The modernized capabilities that are coming on board with the successful launch of GPS IIF-5 will support the worldwide GPS community for years to come," added Col. Cooley. "I would like to recognize the outstanding commitment and the superb dedication to mission success from the 45th and 50th Space Wings, our industry partners Boeing and United Launch Alliance, and the GPS IIF and Delta IV program teams at the Space and Missile Systems Center."
The IFF satellites are managed by the Space and Missile Systems Center based in the Los Angeles Air Force Base in California. The center manages a variety of Air Force capabilities and assets includes military satellite communications, space launch and range systems, meteorological satellites for defense and GPS.
