Tests Completed On First GPS IIF Satellite

Testing is complete on the first of a dozen GPS IIF satellites, The Boeing Co. [BA] announced.

Those environmental tests confirm mechanical integrity of the spacecraft.

The program is on track to deliver the first satellite to the Air Force this year.

Experts completed a series of acoustic tests that replicate the noise levels expected during launch. These tests were performed under supervision of the Air Force, the Aerospace Corp. and Boeing at the Boeing satellite factory in El Segundo, Calif.

This is the third in a string of GPS IIF program accomplishments, according to Boeing. The program recently completed a successful mechanical solar array deployment test, and delivered upgraded software for the control segment that will support the first and subsequent GPS IIF launches.