SpaceX successfully launched a modern GPS satellite on behalf of the U.S. Space Force. The new GPS III-SV09 satellite was sent into orbit from a launch site located at Cape Canaveral in Florida, using the Falcon 9 rocket. The launch took place on January 28 at 06:53 Kyiv time, although it was initially scheduled for a day earlier, but was postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions.
This is reported by Finway
Advantages of the New GPS Satellite
GPS III-SV09 is the ninth satellite in a series of ten next-generation satellites. According to representatives of the U.S. Space Force, the GPS III satellites are built by Lockheed Martin and equipped with advanced “M-Code” technology. This technology provides a higher level of protection against interference and enhances the reliability of satellite communication for both military and civilian users compared to its predecessors. The first satellite in this series was launched into orbit in December 2018.
Change of Launch Plans
The launch of GPS III-SV09 was initially planned to be carried out using the Vulcan Centaur rocket, which is being developed by United Launch Alliance. However, the U.S. Space Force decided to involve SpaceX in this mission, changing the previous agreements. The tenth and final satellite in this series is expected to be launched later this year.
The GPS III satellites are built by aerospace giant Lockheed Martin and equipped with “M-Code” technology, making them more resistant to interference than their predecessors.