Successful GPS Block IIR-M Spacecraft Launch
- From: Sam Wormley <swormley1@xxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Fri, 19 Oct 2007 16:26:55 GMT
Successful GPS Block IIR-M Spacecraft Launch
http://www.insidegnss.com/node/301
October 17, 2007
A Block IIR-M GPS satellite was launched successfully today (October
17, 2007) from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida. Expected to
be set healthy for use in early November 2007, the spacecraft will be
designated as PRN15/SVN55, referring to its pseudorandom noise code
and space vehicle number, respectively.
The GPS IIR-17(M) satellite is the fourth in the GPS IIR series
modernized with the new military code (M-code) and second civil
signal (L2C). Currently 12 IIR and 4 IIR-M satellites are on orbit.
It will be maneuvered into the F2 slot in the sixth of the six GPS
orbital planes, near to a 16-year-old Block IIA space vehicle (SV29,
PRN29) on which three of the satellite's four atomic clocks have
ceased functioning.
The GPS IIR-17(M) satellite, built by Lockheed Martin and launched
aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket, joins the GPS constellation of 30
operational satellites. The GPS IIR-M satellites features include two
new military signals for improved accuracy, enhanced encryption,
anti-jamming capabilities, and a second civil signal to provide dual
frequency capability and improve resistance to interference.
The GPS IIR-M launch was also the first to be conducted with the new
Launch and Early Orbit, Anomaly Resolution, and Disposal Operations
(LADO) System for satellite command and control during launch. LADO
will be replacing and will perform the same functions that are
normally accomplished by the Command and Control System, according to
the GPS Wing.
Once operational, the new GPS LADO system will allow cradle-to-grave
operations for GPS under command by the 2nd Space Operations Squadron
at the GPS Master Control Station, Schriever AFB, Colorado, and their
Reserve associate unit the 19th Space Operations Squadron. LADO will
relieve the GPS program of its dependence on CCS for spinning
satellite operations. The system will also support existing GPS
IIA/IIR/IIR-M satellites in the GPS operational constellation for all
LADO mission functions, perform launch for remaining IIR-M
satellites, and be used for on-orbit GPS test and check-out
activities.
The next launches of GPS IIR-M satellites are scheduled for "no
sooner than" December 2007 and March and June 2008.
.
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