US Airforce GPS IIR-19 in space
US successfully launched a Delta II expendable launch vehicle today from Space Launch Complex 17-A at 2:09 a.m., EDT carrying the Air Force’s GPS IIR-19(M) satellite. This launch marks the first mission for the Air Force from the cape in 2008.
Following a nominal 1 hour and 8 minute flight, the rocket deployed the GPS IIR-19(M) spacecraft, the sixth modernized NAVSTAR Global Positioning System Block II R-M military navigation satellite. GPS is a space-based radio- positioning system nominally consisting of a minimum of 24-satellite
constellation that provides navigation and timing information to military and civilian users worldwide.
Designed to operate for 10 years, GPS satellites orbit the Earth every 12 hours, emitting continuous navigation signals. With the proper equipment, users can receive these signals to calculate time, location and velocity. In addition to its military use, GPS satellites provide directional assistance to civilian users around the world.
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