NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

GPS III SV09

Launch Time
NET November, 2025
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Rocket

Vulcan VC2S
Image Credit: ULA
ULA
Status: Active
Liftoff Thrust: 8,952 kN
Payload to LEO: 19,000 kg
Payload to GTO: 8,400 kg
Stages: 2
Strap-ons: 2
Rocket Height: 61.6 m
Fairing Diameter: 5.4 m
Fairing Height: 15.5 m

Mission Details

GPS III SV09

AKA Ellison Onizuka

GPS III (Global Positioning System) is the first evolution of the third generation of GPS satellites. The U.S. Air Force announced in May 2008 that a team led by Lockheed Martin had won the competition to build the next-generation Global Positioning System (Navstar) Space System program, known as GPS III.

This program will improve position, navigation, and timing services for warfighter and civil users worldwide and provide advanced anti-jam capabilities yielding superior system security, accuracy, and reliability.

When fully deployed, the GPS III constellation will feature a cross-linked command and control architecture, allowing the entire GPS constellation to be updated simultaneously from a single ground station. Additionally, a new spot beam capability for enhanced military (M-Code) coverage and increased resistance to hostile jamming will be incorporated. These enhancements will improve accuracy and ensure availability for military and civilian users worldwide.

Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin
Operator: United States Space Force
Payloads: 1
Total Mass: 4,352.0 kg
Medium Earth Orbit

Location

SLC-41, Cape Canaveral SFS, Florida, USA