First GPS 3 Satellite Integrated, Ready for System-Level Testing

The first GPS 3 satellite, SV 01. Photo: Lockheed Martin

[Via Satellite 05-13-2015] Lockheed Martin has completed the final integration of the first Global Positioning System 3 (GPS 3) satellite, pairing the system module with the propulsion core and paving the way for system-level testing. Built for the U.S. Air Force, the GPS 3 Space Vehicle One (SV 01) satellite is the first of eight GPS 3 satellites for which Lockheed Martin is under contract.

GPS 3 satellites feature improvements over their predecessors, providing three times the accuracy and up to eight times the anti-jamming capabilities of GPS satellites launching today. Each is designed for a lifespan of 15 years, a 25 percent increase over currently launching GPS spacecraft. The satellites are also the first to be interoperable with other international Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) by using the L1C civil signal.

“This summer, SV 01 will begin thermal vacuum testing, where it will be subjected to simulated harsh space environments. Successful completion of this testing is critical as it will help validate our design and manufacturing processes for all follow-on GPS 3 satellites,” said Mark Stewart, VP of Lockheed Martin’s navigation systems mission area.