Mon, Dec 24, 2007
Attention Aviators, you can all feel a little more "covered" now
with the launch of another GPS satellite from the cape. Air Force
space technicians successfully launched a United Launch Alliance
Delta II booster Dec. 21 carrying the fifth modernized NAVSTAR
Global Positioning System satellite into space. The NAVSTAR GPS was
launched at 3:04 p.m. EST from Space Launch Complex 17A.
The satellite will join the constellation of on-orbit satellites
providing global coverage and increased performance of the GPS
services to users worldwide. The modernized series delivers
increased signal power to receivers on the ground, two new military
signals for improved accuracy, enhanced encryption and anti-jamming
capabilities for the military, and a second civil signal to provide
users with an open access signal on a different frequency.
"Today's launch moves us another step closer to modernizing the
vital GPS constellation, which provides combat effects our
warfighters depend on," said Brig. Gen. Susan Helms, 45th Space
Wing commander.
GPS is the world's foremost space-based positioning and
navigation system. Endeavors such as mapping, aerial refueling,
rendezvous operations, geodetic surveying and search and rescue
operations all have benefited from GPS's accuracy.
The GPS constellation provides critical situational awareness
and precision weapon guidance for the military and supports a wide
range of civil, scientific and commercial functions -- from air
traffic control to the Internet -- with precision location and
timing information. Every satellite in the constellation was
launched from here.
"The Global Positioning System has become an integral part of
all of our lives -- for the members supporting the Global War on
Terror and their families who support them," said Tech. Sgt. Will
McCormick, a Delta II electrical engineering assistant with the 1st
Space Launch Squadron.
"It is truly an honor to play even a small part in providing
this capability."
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