Author Topic: LIVE Atlas V 401 - GPS IIF-12 - Canaveral SLC-41, February 5, 2016 (Read 52093 times)

beidou · « **on:** 03/26/2015 06:40 pm »

This will be launch of the last GPS IIF satellite.

William Graham's feature article:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2016/02/atlas-v-open-2016-campaign-gps-iif-12-launch/

beidou · « **Reply #1 on:** 08/27/2015 07:10 pm »

I guess this satellite will replace SVN 48 and use PRN 7 when commissioned. SVN 48 is currently the oldest satellite in GPS constellation.

Quote

07/48 A4 Rb3 IIR-19/M6

russianhalo117 · « **Reply #2 on:** 08/27/2015 07:27 pm »

Quote from: beidou on 03/26/2015 06:40 pm

This will be launch of the last GPS IIF satellite.

Shipment is planned around the second to last week of September. The date will be posted later upon public confirmation.

Colodie · « **Reply #3 on:** 08/30/2015 03:29 am »

Quote from: beidou on 08/27/2015 07:10 pm

I guess this satellite will replace SVN 48 and use PRN 7 when commissioned. SVN 48 is currently the oldest satellite in GPS constellation.

Quote
07/48 A4 Rb3 IIR-19/M6

SVN 48 isn't the oldest satellite... SVN 48 is actually the 3rd youngest IIR-M (effectively 2nd youngest if you ignore SVN 49 which was never commissioned) and has been on orbit for a bit over 7 years. Plus it's a modernized satellite, and is currently transmitting L2C.

This should replace the last IIA (SVN 23/SVN 34), and will take the PRN of whichever satellite is decommissioned to make room for IIF-11 (i.e. it will take PRN 4 or PRN 32).

zubenelgenubi · « **Reply #4 on:** 10/04/2015 11:12 pm »

Quote from: russianhalo117 on 08/27/2015 07:27 pm

Quote from: beidou on 03/26/2015 06:40 pm
This will be launch of the last GPS IIF satellite.
Shipment is planned around the second to last week of September. The date will be posted later upon public confirmation.

Bumping the thread--can any of our forum members confirm delivery from El Segundo to the Cape?

russianhalo117 · « **Reply #5 on:** 10/05/2015 12:49 am »

Quote from: zubenelgenubi on 10/04/2015 11:12 pm

Quote from: russianhalo117 on 08/27/2015 07:27 pm
Quote from: beidou on 03/26/2015 06:40 pm
This will be launch of the last GPS IIF satellite.
Shipment is planned around the second to last week of September. The date will be posted later upon public confirmation.
Bumping the thread--can any of our forum members confirm delivery from El Segundo to the Cape?

Per L2: 9/22, USAF C-17 satellite delivery to CCAFS, contingency SLF arrival support at 0600.

Targeteer · « **Reply #6 on:** 10/08/2015 10:03 pm »

http://www.patrick.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123460438

by Chrissy Cuttita
45th Space Wing Public Affairs

10/8/2015 - PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The last Air Force GPS IIF in a block of 12 satellites was delivered to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, from Boeing's manufacturing facility in El Segundo, California Oct. 8 via a C-17 Globemaster III.

A crowd from the government and industry partnership, who will complete the satellite's final assembly, gathered on the Cape's "Skid Strip" to watch the off-loading of the satellite they will prepare to launch aboard a United Launch Alliance rocket in 2016.

"This GPS IIF-12 satellite represents the end of a legacy as it will be the last of the 61 GPS satellites processed here at CCAFS," said Brig. Gen. Wayne Monteith, 45th Space Wing commander. "This culminates an incredible 27-year legacy at our Area 59 Satellite Processing Facility. We are the Nation's premier gateway to space and are humbled to be a part of the team that provides GPS and its capabilities to the world."

Although there have been other models of GPS launched into space, the Airmen-led processing team at Area 59 is particularly proud to begin preparations to send the last IIF block satellite into orbit. They've been behind every launch of the series since the first GPS IIF launched here in May 2010.

"Our combined team's objective is 100% mission success--each and every time." said Col. Eric Krystkowiak, 45th Launch Group commander. "My Airmen work, in partnership, with Boeing and the System Program Office at the Space and Missile Systems Center throughout the final stages of satellite processing prior to launch. From spacecraft containerization, shipment from California, the arrival at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Landing Strip, final checkouts, fueling and encapsulation, the team is laser focused on identifying and mitigating any issues that could potentially jeopardize mission success."

The Boeing-assembled GPS IIF 12 that arrived at the Cape will undergo a series of pre-launch preparations, checks and rehearsals. These included functional checkout of the spacecraft, compatibility testing, battery installation, fueling, mating to the payload adapter and obtaining a final flight weight.

Members of the quality assurance team range from young military officers to career enlisted troops to seasoned civilians.

"Mission Assurance at the launch base is executed with our 'triad' of professionals," said Krystkowiak. "Our mission assurance technicians are enlisted personnel with many years of experience in missile maintenance who are fully engaged and observe the contractor's work with the satellite. They bring their hands-on experience, strict technical compliance and discipline to the satellite processing realm. Beside them are our company grade officers and civilian engineers who bring their engineering rigor and innovative ideas into the process. Lastly are our Aerospace Corporation partners who provide invaluable experience and legacy system insight to the team with their continuity of satellite processing. Many of these members have been here at the Cape since GPS first launched in 1989 and achieved full operational capability in 1995."

A field program manager for the team interfaces with 45th SW leadership, the Air Force Space and Missile Center and the contracted partners throughout the months in between the satellite's delivery and its launch.

The Evolved Expendable Launch vehicle is used to launch GPS satellites from CCAFS into nearly 11,000-mile circular orbits. While circling the earth, GPS satellites transmit extremely accurate timing data on multiple L-band frequencies. Design life across the satellite blocks range from 7.5 to 12 years, but many are lasting more than 20 years, with the oldest vehicle turning 25 in November of 2015.

The GPS Master Control Station, operated by the 50th Space Wing's 2nd Space Operations Squadron at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, is responsible for monitoring and controlling the GPS as a 24-satellite system, consisting of six orbital planes, with a minimum of four satellites per plane. There are currently 39 vehicles in the GPS constellation.

GPS satellites serve and protect U.S. warfighters by providing navigational assistance and timing standards for military operations on land, at sea, and in the air. Civilian users around the world also use and depend on GPS for highly accurate time, location, and velocity information.

zubenelgenubi · « **Reply #7 on:** 10/09/2015 02:26 am »

Will the apparent delay in delivery (10/8 vs. 9/22) from El Segundo to the Cape delay the launch?
Or is a delivery delay of this length built into the launch processing scheduling?

WHAP · « **Reply #8 on:** 10/09/2015 03:48 am »

There's been no indication of a slip on the ULA side. That't not a guarantee.

Colodie · « **Reply #9 on:** 10/31/2015 06:49 pm »

With the launch of SVN 73 today and the planned decommissioning of SVN 34 in a few days, IIF-12 (SVN 70) should take PRN 4.

SVN 23 (first IIA launched) should be the last IIA decommissioned to make room in the constellation for SVN-70. At that time it will be a bit over 25 years old.

SVN 23's PRN (32) should be used for checkout of decommissioned vehicles until SVN-74 launches (whenever that may be)

Rifleman · « **Reply #10 on:** 11/24/2015 03:09 am »

It looks like I am going to be in the area the first week of February, and would love to see this launch in person. Does anyone know what time on the 3rd the launch window opens, and how long of a window will they have?

ZachS09 · « **Reply #11 on:** 11/25/2015 11:08 pm »

The window opens at 8:49 AM and lasts until 9:08 AM. It's a 19-minute window.

beidou · « **Reply #12 on:** 12/05/2015 04:12 pm »

Launch poster

jacqmans · « **Reply #13 on:** 12/07/2015 07:12 am »

Atlas V to Launch GPS IIF-12

Atlas V GPS IIF-12 Mission ArtworkRocket/Payload: A United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 will launch the GPS IIF-12 mission for the U.S. Air Force.

Date/Site/Launch Time: Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016, from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.

Mission Description: GPS satellites serve and protect our warfighters by providing navigational assistance for U.S. military operations on land, at sea, and in the air. Civilian users around the world also use and depend on GPS for highly accurate time, location, and velocity information.

GPS IIF-12 is one of the next-generation GPS satellites, incorporating various improvements to provide greater accuracy, increased signals, and enhanced performance for users.

Launch Notes: GPS IIF-12 will be ULA’s first mission of 2016 and the 60th operational GPS mission to launch on a ULA or heritage rocket.

Launch Updates: To keep up to speed with updates to the launch countdown, dial the ULA launch hotline at 1-877-852-4321 or join the conversation at www.facebook.com/ulalaunch, twitter.com/ulalaunch and instagram.com/ulalaunch; hashtags #GPSIIF12, #AtlasV.

Go Atlas! Go Centaur! Go GPS IIF-12!

beidou · « **Reply #14 on:** 12/10/2015 08:20 pm »

Quote

SVN-34/PRN-04 has been taken out of the operational constellation and sent to Launch, Anomaly Resolution, and Disposal Operations (LADO). PRN-04 is tentatively scheduled for assignment to IIF-12, launching in February of next year.

beidou · « **Reply #15 on:** 01/13/2016 07:55 pm »

Countdown on GPS.GOV

jacqmans · « **Reply #16 on:** 01/19/2016 03:18 pm »

Upcoming Launch

Launch Viewing Tickets for ULA Atlas V GPS IIF-12
Watch the launch February 3!

Witness the compelling sights and sounds of the ULA Atlas V rocket launch on February 3, 2016, as it sends the GPS IIF-12 satellite into orbit around Earth for the United States Air Force.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers the closest public viewing of rocket launches. Launch viewing areas include the Apollo/Saturn V Center located within the secured areas of Kennedy Space Center. Visitor complex parking opens at 5:30 am and bus boarding for the Apollo/Saturn V Center begins at the main visitor complex at 6 am for launch viewing ticket holders only February 3, 2016. Launch Transportation Tickets to the Apollo/Saturn V Center are available for $20 plus tax, in addition to admission. Purchase your launch viewing tickets today!

In addition to launch viewing/transportation tickets, visitors are also welcome to access a viewing area located at the main visitor complex. This viewing area with launch commentary is included with general admission. The visitor complex opens one hour early at 8 am to accommodate launch viewing.

https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/events/2016/february/launch-ula-atlas-v-gps-2f-12.aspx

Rifleman · « **Reply #17 on:** 01/19/2016 11:41 pm »

Just purchased my tickets to this launch! So excited, hopefully after all these years of being a space fanatic I will finally get to see a launch in person! My 3 year old daughter is even more excited than I am.

Colodie · « **Reply #18 on:** 01/21/2016 03:30 am »

There's a Forecast Unusable Until Further Notice for SVN 23, for the 25th of January at 1500Z.

That will be the first time (approximately) since 10 December 1990, 2345Z that there were no IIA's being actively used for navigation (coincidentally that was when SVN 23 was initially set healthy).

http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?Do=gpsShowNanu&num=2016006

BabaORileyUSA · « **Reply #19 on:** 01/25/2016 02:41 pm »

Betelgeuse! Here's the new ULA Mission patch:

Jim · « **Reply #20 on:** 01/25/2016 03:10 pm »

Quote from: BabaORileyUSA on 01/25/2016 02:41 pm

Betelgeuse! Here's the new ULA Mission patch:

Air Force patch and not ULA

Steven Pietrobon · « **Reply #21 on:** 01/26/2016 03:31 am »

I think they're trying to trick us into saying Betelgeuse three times! :-)

BabaORileyUSA · « **Reply #22 on:** 01/26/2016 04:46 pm »

Here's another mission patch - Night Gators (45 LCSS) , I think:

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #23 on:** 01/26/2016 09:32 pm »

ULA:

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (Jan. 26, 2016) – The launch of a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying the GPS IIF-12 mission has been delayed to no earlier than Feb. 4, to evaluate concerns over the integrity of electrical connectors on the Atlas V booster. The GPS IIF-12 spacecraft mate to the Atlas V launch vehicle has been delayed pending assessment. The mission is set to liftoff off from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #24 on:** 01/29/2016 02:27 pm »

ULA Statement:

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (Jan. 29, 2016) – The launch of a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying the GPS IIF-12 mission is set to launch on Feb. 5. The integrated launch team has addressed the concerns over the integrity of electrical connectors on the Atlas V booster and developed a path towards launch. The GPS IIF-12 spacecraft mate to the Atlas V launch vehicle is on track to support a Feb. 5 launch. The mission is set to liftoff off from Space Launch Complex 41 (SLC-41) at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

beidou · « **Reply #25 on:** 02/01/2016 07:19 pm »

There is still no mission booklet available even the launch is just 4-day away...

Newton_V · « **Reply #26 on:** 02/02/2016 04:18 pm »

Quote from: beidou on 02/01/2016 07:19 pm

There is still no mission booklet available even the launch is just 4-day away...

Other than launch time, I would think everything would be the same as F-11.

beidou · « **Reply #27 on:** 02/02/2016 06:36 pm »

Quote from: beidou on 02/01/2016 07:19 pm

There is still no mission booklet available even the launch is just 4-day away...

Now it's available.

jacqmans · « **Reply #28 on:** 02/02/2016 07:06 pm »

jacqmans · « **Reply #29 on:** 02/02/2016 07:10 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #30 on:** 02/03/2016 01:27 am »

everything is progressing towards the GPS IIF-12 launch for the United States Air Force. The mission is set to lift off on a ULA Atlas V rocket on Friday, Feb. 5 from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The 19 minute launch window opens at 8:38 a.m. EST. Today’s L-3 forecast shows a 40 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for launch.

Atlas V GPS IIF-12 mission art attached. Payload mate photos and video can be viewed and downloaded here: http://www.ulalaunch.com/file-library.aspx

L-1: Thursday, Feb. 4

12:30 p.m.: Remote camera photographers meet at the Space and Missile History Center parking lot to caravan SLC-41 to set cameras.

Weather Forecast

Overall probability of violating weather constraints: 60%

Primary concerns: Ground Winds, Thick Clouds, Cumulus Clouds

Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay: 20%

Primary concerns: Cumulus Clouds

ALL TIMES EASTERN STANDARD TIME

LAUNCH – FEBRUARY 5, 2016

BARS AND TONE – 7:48 A.M.

PROGRAM START – 8:18 A.M.

LAUNCH WINDOW – 8:38-8:57 A.M.

TRANSMISSION FOR DIGITAL HIGH DEFINITON

SATELLITE: SES 2

CARRIER: SES Americom

TRANSPONDER: 21

BAND: C-Band Digital

ORBITAL POSITION: 87 degrees west

HD BANDWIDTH: 18 MHz (half transponder ‘AB’)

DOWNLINK FREQ: 4111 MHz (Horizontal)

UPLINK FREQ: 6336 MHz (Vertical)

SYMBOL RATE: 13

FEC: ¾

DATA RATE: 17.9705

DVBS-QPSK

MPEG-2

AUDIO EMBEDDED

WEB CAST AVAILABLE AT http://www.ulalaunch.com

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #31 on:** 02/03/2016 01:27 am »

Mission art:

catdlr · « **Reply #32 on:** 02/03/2016 01:57 am »

Atlas V GPS IIF-12: Encapsulation and Payload Mate

Published on Feb 2, 2016, ULA

chewi · « **Reply #33 on:** 02/04/2016 07:39 am »

PRN-32 / SVN-70 / Plane F1

http://earth-info.nga.mil/GandG/sathtml/satinfo.html

jacqmans · « **Reply #34 on:** 02/04/2016 12:21 pm »

chewi · « **Reply #35 on:** 02/04/2016 12:33 pm »

Quote

ULA ‏@ulalaunch 11m ago

Rollin' rollin' rollin'. Keep that rocket rollin'... #AtlasV #GPSIIF12

_

Prober · « **Reply #36 on:** 02/04/2016 04:42 pm »

Quote from: chewi on 02/04/2016 12:33 pm

Quote
ULA ‏@ulalaunch 11m ago

Rollin' rollin' rollin'. Keep that rocket rollin'... #AtlasV #GPSIIF12

_

hmm, is that a new metal panel on the launch platform (lower left)? Looks like some refurbish work is taking place.

Kansan52 · « **Reply #37 on:** 02/04/2016 06:08 pm »

I get chills seeing a rocket raring to go! Must be why I like this place so much.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #38 on:** 02/04/2016 10:11 pm »

Moved for live coverage.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #39 on:** 02/04/2016 10:11 pm »

Rollout photos via ULA.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #40 on:** 02/04/2016 10:13 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #41 on:** 02/05/2016 01:39 am »

William Graham's feature article:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2016/02/atlas-v-open-2016-campaign-gps-iif-12-launch/

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #42 on:** 02/05/2016 10:47 am »

Go for fueling, per Tory Bruno.

And:

William Harwood ‏@cbs_spacenews 55s56 seconds ago
A5/GPS2F-12: No technical problems of any significance have been reported at the pad this morning; weather appears to be the only issue

FutureSpaceTourist · « **Reply #43 on:** 02/05/2016 11:37 am »

Weather forecast attached:

Quote

Launch day overall probability of violating weather constraints: 60%
Primary concern(s): Ground Winds, Thick Clouds

24-hour delay overall probability of violating weather constraints: 20%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Clouds

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #44 on:** 02/05/2016 11:38 am »

L-60 minutes.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #45 on:** 02/05/2016 12:11 pm »

Winds are the issue for the constraints.

Graham · « **Reply #46 on:** 02/05/2016 12:11 pm »

Fueling complete per Bruno

Quote

Fueling complete. All tanks at flight level. Mighty Atlas is carbo loaded and ready to sprint

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #47 on:** 02/05/2016 12:12 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #48 on:** 02/05/2016 12:17 pm »

Webcast starting. Winds trending back down again.

http://www.ulalaunch.com/webcast.aspx

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #49 on:** 02/05/2016 12:19 pm »

Good morning Atlas V!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #50 on:** 02/05/2016 12:19 pm »

New commentator....

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #51 on:** 02/05/2016 12:19 pm »

T-4 mins and holding.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #52 on:** 02/05/2016 12:20 pm »

Coverage will end at T+20 mins (over three hours to S/C Sep)

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #53 on:** 02/05/2016 12:21 pm »

Today's passenger.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #54 on:** 02/05/2016 12:22 pm »

Weather is currently green.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #55 on:** 02/05/2016 12:24 pm »

Centaur road trip.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #56 on:** 02/05/2016 12:25 pm »

Coming up on L-10 mins shortly.

Satori · « **Reply #57 on:** 02/05/2016 12:30 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #58 on:** 02/05/2016 12:31 pm »

Polling to come out of the hold shortly.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #59 on:** 02/05/2016 12:32 pm »

All GO to proceed.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #60 on:** 02/05/2016 12:32 pm »

L-6 mins.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #61 on:** 02/05/2016 12:33 pm »

Winds are still a concern.

Satori · « **Reply #62 on:** 02/05/2016 12:33 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #63 on:** 02/05/2016 12:34 pm »

Out of the BIH.

T-4 mins and counting!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #64 on:** 02/05/2016 12:35 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #65 on:** 02/05/2016 12:35 pm »

T-3 mins.

Securing topping. Tanks to flight pressure.

Satori · « **Reply #66 on:** 02/05/2016 12:35 pm »

T-3 m

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #67 on:** 02/05/2016 12:36 pm »

FTS internal and armed.

Satori · « **Reply #68 on:** 02/05/2016 12:36 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #69 on:** 02/05/2016 12:36 pm »

T-2 mins.

Vehicle internal.

Satori · « **Reply #70 on:** 02/05/2016 12:37 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #71 on:** 02/05/2016 12:37 pm »

Tower cam!

Satori · « **Reply #72 on:** 02/05/2016 12:37 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #73 on:** 02/05/2016 12:37 pm »

T-60 seconds.

Satori · « **Reply #74 on:** 02/05/2016 12:37 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #75 on:** 02/05/2016 12:38 pm »

Go Atlas. Go Centaur. Go GPS!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #76 on:** 02/05/2016 12:39 pm »

LAUNCH!!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #77 on:** 02/05/2016 12:40 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #78 on:** 02/05/2016 12:40 pm »

Mach 1 and.... MaxQ.

Satori · « **Reply #79 on:** 02/05/2016 12:40 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #80 on:** 02/05/2016 12:41 pm »

Closed loop steering.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #81 on:** 02/05/2016 12:41 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #82 on:** 02/05/2016 12:42 pm »

5G throttling.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #83 on:** 02/05/2016 12:44 pm »

Staging and Payload Fairing Jettison.

Satori · « **Reply #84 on:** 02/05/2016 12:45 pm »

A few launch photos...

Satori · « **Reply #85 on:** 02/05/2016 12:46 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #86 on:** 02/05/2016 12:46 pm »

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #87 on:** 02/05/2016 12:48 pm »

Very articulate USAF Lt.

Prober · « **Reply #88 on:** 02/05/2016 12:49 pm »

err missed it

MarekCyzio · « **Reply #89 on:** 02/05/2016 12:53 pm »

View from my home

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #90 on:** 02/05/2016 12:54 pm »

Centaur still chugging away ahead of MECO-1 in two mins.

Prober · « **Reply #91 on:** 02/05/2016 12:55 pm »

2min to meco
1 min to meco

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #92 on:** 02/05/2016 12:56 pm »

MECO-1.

Prober · « **Reply #93 on:** 02/05/2016 12:56 pm »

3 hr coast
Boeing rep

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #94 on:** 02/05/2016 12:57 pm »

Boeing guy getting interviewed.

Mapperuo · « **Reply #95 on:** 02/05/2016 12:59 pm »

rocx · « **Reply #96 on:** 02/05/2016 01:02 pm »

Quote from: Chris Bergin on 02/05/2016 12:57 pm

Boeing guy getting interviewed.

ULA spokeswoman response to everything: "That's amazing."

fs10inator · « **Reply #97 on:** 02/05/2016 01:03 pm »

Broadcast over.

_{on a side note, hello there, ULA watermark /}

Prober · « **Reply #98 on:** 02/05/2016 01:03 pm »

love replays

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #99 on:** 02/05/2016 01:06 pm »

End of ULA coverage.

edkyle99 · « **Reply #100 on:** 02/05/2016 01:10 pm »

Quote from: rocx on 02/05/2016 01:02 pm

Quote from: Chris Bergin on 02/05/2016 12:57 pm
Boeing guy getting interviewed.
ULA spokeswoman response to everything: "That's amazing."

Here's the thing. When you think about it for a minute - how we all find our way around now, and have for years, using signals broadcast by a carefully maintained constellation of satellites in space - Andrea Casias is right. It is amazing.

- Ed Kyle

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #101 on:** 02/05/2016 01:15 pm »

And she was amazing, far more engaging and not reading off a script like most do.

ULA photos:

Rocket Science · « **Reply #102 on:** 02/05/2016 03:46 pm »

Congrats and thanks for the ride ULA...Russian engines and all!!

arachnitect · « **Reply #103 on:** 02/05/2016 03:55 pm »

Quote from: Rocket Science on 02/05/2016 03:46 pm

Congrats and thanks for the ride ULA...Russian engines and all!!

Not there yet... 2nd burn coming shortly

chewi · « **Reply #104 on:** 02/05/2016 03:59 pm »

Quote

ULA ‏@ulalaunch 1m ago

2nd and final Centaur engine burn is complete. #AtlasV #GPSIIF12

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #105 on:** 02/05/2016 04:01 pm »

S/C Sep!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #106 on:** 02/05/2016 04:03 pm »

Final update to William's superb article:

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2016/02/atlas-v-open-2016-campaign-gps-iif-12-launch/

Congrats to all involved!

Mark McCombs · « **Reply #107 on:** 02/05/2016 04:07 pm »

Congrats to ULA, USAF, Boeing, and all others.

baldusi · « **Reply #108 on:** 02/05/2016 04:18 pm »

Congratulations to ULA, Boeing and USAF!

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #109 on:** 02/05/2016 04:24 pm »

United Launch Alliance Successfully Launches GPS IIF-12 Satellite for U.S. Air Force
The launch marks ULA’s first launch for 2016 and the final launch of the GPS IIF block

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., (Feb. 5, 2016) – United Launch Alliance (ULA) successfully launched its first mission of the year with an Atlas V rocket carrying the Global Positioning System (GPS) IIF-12 satellite for the U.S. Air Force. The rocket lifted off from Space Launch Complex-41 on Feb. 5 at 8:38 a.m. EST.

GPS IIF-12 is the final satellite in the IIF-block of satellites, which are the next-generation GPS satellites that incorporate numerous improvements to provide greater accuracy, increased signals and enhanced performance for users. This mission was ULA’s 104th successful launch since the company was formed in December 2006.

“Congratulations to the ULA, Boeing and Air Force teams on the successful launch of GPS IIF-12. We began launching the IIF satellites in May 2010 and have appreciated the outstanding teamwork of everyone involved as we have worked together to deliver all 12 IIF satellites. This system provides incredible capabilities to our women and men in uniform while enabling so many technologies that impact all of our daily lives. We are proud to be GPS’s ride to space,” said Laura Maginnis, ULA vice president, Custom Services.

The mission was launched aboard an Atlas V Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) 401 configuration vehicle, which includes a 4-meter diameter payload fairing. The Atlas booster for this mission was powered by the RD AMROSS RD-180 engine, and the Centaur upper stage was powered by the Aerojet Rocketdyne RL10C-1 engine.

Today’s flight utilizes a newly designed suite of avionics, flight software and ground systems. This upgraded command and control system was designed to reduce cost and improve reliability.
ULA's next launch is the Delta IV NROL-45 mission for the National Reconnaissance Office, scheduled for Feb. 10 from Space Launch Complex-6 from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California.

The EELV program was established by the U.S. Air Force to provide assured access to space for Department of Defense and other government payloads. The commercially developed EELV program supports the full range of government mission requirements, while delivering on schedule and providing significant cost savings over the heritage launch systems.

With more than a century of combined heritage, United Launch Alliance is the nation’s most experienced and reliable launch service provider. ULA has successfully delivered more than 100 satellites to orbit that provide critical capabilities for troops in the field, aid meteorologists in tracking severe weather, enable personal device-based GPS navigation and unlock the mysteries of our solar system.

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #110 on:** 02/05/2016 04:25 pm »

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (Feb. 5, 2016) – A United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket carrying the GPS IIF-12 mission lifted off from Space Launch Complex 41 at 8:38 a.m. EST.

Photo by United Launch Alliance

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #111 on:** 02/05/2016 04:26 pm »

Lar · « **Reply #112 on:** 02/05/2016 04:37 pm »

Congrats to ULA, you guys make it look easy. My FAVORITE rocket company has a ways to go yet before they make it look easy every time the way you do. Well done. As usual.

Congrats to all involved as well.

ZachS09 · « **Reply #113 on:** 02/05/2016 06:35 pm »

Congrats, ULA and USAF, for successfully ending an era of legacy GPS satellites. Coming up next in the navigation satellite schedule is the GPS-III satellites in 2017.

Star One · « **Reply #114 on:** 02/05/2016 06:58 pm »

Congratulations to ULA & the USAF for another launch in a series of satellites that have had, and will continue to have, a major impact on the world.

input~2 · « **Reply #115 on:** 02/05/2016 07:02 pm »

2 Objects cataloged by USSTRATCOM:
2016-007A/41328 in 20438 x 20443 km x 55.04° (S/C)
2016-007B/41329 in 20450 x 21202 km x 55.22° (Centaur)

northenarc · « **Reply #116 on:** 02/06/2016 12:27 am »

Congrats to ULA and USAF for another proficient GPS delivery, very nice views from the rocket cam this morning.

Galactic Penguin SST · « **Reply #117 on:** 02/06/2016 12:51 am »

Lewis007 · « **Reply #118 on:** 02/06/2016 07:36 am »

Video of launch webcast (Ruptly TV)

ugordan · « **Reply #119 on:** 02/06/2016 10:58 am »

Quote from: Galactic Penguin SST on 02/06/2016 12:51 am

Wow, that shows spacecraft separation in HD. I've never seen that before, I wonder if it was realtime HD or if it was buffered and downlinked gradually?

dawei · « **Reply #120 on:** 02/06/2016 02:20 pm »

Quote from: input~2 on 02/05/2016 07:02 pm

2 Objects cataloged by USSTRATCOM:
2016-007A/41328 in 20438 x 20443 km x 55.04° (S/C)
2016-007B/41329 in 20450 x 21202 km x 55.22° (Centaur)

Is this a normal end state for the Centaur on a GPS mission? I always assumed (showing my ignorance here) that they did an extra burn to lower the orbit to clear the GPS "airspace" from any potential future debris from the Centaur.

Sam Ho · « **Reply #121 on:** 02/06/2016 03:52 pm »

Quote from: dawei on 02/06/2016 02:20 pm

Quote from: input~2 on 02/05/2016 07:02 pm
2 Objects cataloged by USSTRATCOM:
2016-007A/41328 in 20438 x 20443 km x 55.04° (S/C)
2016-007B/41329 in 20450 x 21202 km x 55.22° (Centaur)

Is this a normal end state for the Centaur on a GPS mission? I always assumed (showing my ignorance here) that they did an extra burn to lower the orbit to clear the GPS "airspace" from any potential future debris from the Centaur.

Disposal orbit is almost the same as the last one: slightly above the GPS orbit.

Quote from: input~2 on 11/01/2015 06:22 am

2 objects have been catalogued by USSTRATCOM

2015-062A/41019 in 20426 x 20486 km x 55.03° (GPS IIF-11)
2015-062B/41020 in 20473 x 21713 km x 55.37° (Centaur)

Colodie · « **Reply #122 on:** 02/06/2016 05:53 pm »

Quote from: Sam Ho on 02/06/2016 03:52 pm

Quote from: dawei on 02/06/2016 02:20 pm
Quote from: input~2 on 02/05/2016 07:02 pm
2 Objects cataloged by USSTRATCOM:
2016-007A/41328 in 20438 x 20443 km x 55.04° (S/C)
2016-007B/41329 in 20450 x 21202 km x 55.22° (Centaur)

Is this a normal end state for the Centaur on a GPS mission? I always assumed (showing my ignorance here) that they did an extra burn to lower the orbit to clear the GPS "airspace" from any potential future debris from the Centaur.

Disposal orbit is almost the same as the last one: slightly above the GPS orbit.

Quote from: input~2 on 11/01/2015 06:22 am
2 objects have been catalogued by USSTRATCOM

2015-062A/41019 in 20426 x 20486 km x 55.03° (GPS IIF-11)
2015-062B/41020 in 20473 x 21713 km x 55.37° (Centaur)

Also, launches put the GPS satellites slightly above the active constellation (20,450km launch vs. 20,200km final), then the satellite lowers it's orbit. So having the centaur go to a lower orbit would cause it to get closer.

jgoldader · « **Reply #123 on:** 02/06/2016 09:02 pm »

This is probably going to sound stupid, but while watching the launch replay, and again in the highlight video a few posts above, I saw what appears to be an object extending out of the payload shroud shortly after launch. Whatever it is, it's there for many frames, it's not a video glitch. Is it a ghost in the camera optics, or is it real, and if so, anybody know what it is? I've attached a raw image plus one with the brightness enhanced. I've watched many Atlas launches, don't remember seeing it before. Thanks!

DaveS · « **Reply #124 on:** 02/06/2016 09:21 pm »

Quote from: jgoldader on 02/06/2016 09:02 pm

This is probably going to sound stupid, but while watching the launch replay, and again in the highlight video a few posts above, I saw what appears to be an object extending out of the payload shroud shortly after launch. Whatever it is, it's there for many frames, it's not a video glitch. Is it a ghost in the camera optics, or is it real, and if so, anybody know what it is? I've attached a raw image plus one with the brightness enhanced. I've watched many Atlas launches, don't remember seeing it before. Thanks!

Hydrogen vent fin for the Centaur.

zubenelgenubi · « **Reply #125 on:** 02/06/2016 10:37 pm »

Has there been any news as to what happens to the processing facility where the GPS IIF satellites were processed, as this launch was the last of the series?

My understanding is that the IIFs were processed in the former DSCS Processing Facility. It's also my understanding that the GPS IIIs will be processed in a commercial facility, either Astrotech or the SpaceX facilities.

Thank you in advance!

russianhalo117 · « **Reply #126 on:** 02/07/2016 12:10 am »

Quote from: zubenelgenubi on 02/06/2016 10:37 pm

Has there been any news as to what happens to the processing facility where the GPS IIF satellites were processed, as this launch was the last of the series?

My understanding is that the IIFs were processed in the former DSCS Processing Facility. It's also my understanding that the GPS IIIs will be processed in a commercial facility, either Astrotech or the SpaceX facilities.

Thank you in advance!

it will eventually be demolished just like all of the former processing facilities. One USAF goal for US Government mission is to push and achieve a common processing facility architecture with standardized spacecraft and SC GSE processing requirements across all new spacecraft series minus Planetary and international scientific spacecraft to the minimum extent possible. For the time being and with the budget available Astrotech is the easiest option to meet those goals since the commercial market is low here at the moment.

CarlG · « **Reply #127 on:** 02/08/2016 10:44 am »

The fuel dump from the Centaur following deployment was captured in timelapse from Western Australia by Grahame Kelaher.

Targeteer · « **Reply #128 on:** 02/13/2016 01:29 am »

http://www.losangeles.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123468882

Final GPS IIF satellite joins constellation

by Space and Missile Systems Center
Public Affairs

2/12/2016 - LOS ANGELES AIR FORCE BASE - EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- The 50th Space Wing accepted satellite control authority of the final Global Positioning System GPS IIF satellite from the GPS Directorate during a ceremony held Feb. 12 at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado.

Following its launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, Feb. 5, operators from the 50th and 310th Space Wings completed an extensive checkout of the satellite before placing it into its assigned orbital slot in the GPS constellation.

Operated by Air Force Space Command, the GPS constellation provides precise positioning, navigation and timing services worldwide 24-hours a day, seven days a week as a free utility to the world.

Col. Steve Whitney, Space and Missile Systems Center's director of the GPS Directorate, responsible for the acquisition of GPS satellites, started the ceremony by transferring satellite control authority of GPS IIF-12, as Space Vehicle Number 70, to the 14th Air Force.

"The addition of the final GPS IIF satellite to the constellation is a colossal triumph, as GPS IIF capabilities are crucial to modernizing the GPS constellation. On-going modernization efforts provide the constellation with improved timing, additional civil signals and increased protection," said Whitney. "GPS continues to be the 'Gold Standard,' providing precise positioning, navigation, and timing services to users around the globe."

"This launch of the last Block IIF GPS satellite marks a significant milestone for the program, which continues unprecedented support to our military forces and the general public," said Lt. Gen. David J. Buck, 14th Air Force commander and commander of the Joint Functional Component Command for Space, U.S. Strategic Command. "

The capabilities enabled by the position, navigation and timing signals of the GPS constellation are ingrained into the fabric of our daily lives. From paying at the gas pump, to ATM withdrawals and precision farming; international banking or international shipping, GPS enables the modern way of life," said Buck. "It is also a critical component of delivering precise combat power in support of joint and coalition warfighter objectives, and I am pleased to make the constellation more robust and resilient than ever, ensuring we can continue to support America's warfighters well into the future."

Buck's comments were echoed by those who are now entrusted with the care and operation of the satellite.

"It's always a pleasure to transfer satellite control authority to the operators who will deliver those combat effects to the field," said Col. DeAnna M. Burt, 50th Space Wing commander. "GPS is always a little bit different thanks to the billions of civilian users who also engage this global utility."

Daily operation of the satellite is delegated to the 2nd Space Operations Squadron. GPS IIF satellites provide improved signal capabilities and increased user accuracy for military and civil users.

"We take great pride in commanding and controlling this constellation on a daily basis," said Lt. Col. Todd Benson, on behalf of the 2nd and 19th Space Operations Squadrons. "This satellite is the last in a demanding schedule of IIF satellite launches; the units have teamed together to support six launches in just 18 months."

GPS IIF-12 (SVN-70) will replace the legacy SVN-41, which will be moved to another location and provide auxiliary support to the GPS constellation. The oldest GPS satellite in the constellation, SVN-23, has been removed from the broadcast almanac to make room for GPS IIF-12. Launched Nov. 26, 1990, SVN-23 was decommissioned after 25 years of service prior to the launch of GPS IIF-12.

"GPS IIF-12 marks the 12th satellite launched in under six years, between May 2010 and Feb. 2016, and the seventh in the last 21 months," stated Lt. Gen. Samuel Greaves, Space and Missile Systems Center commander and Air Force program executive officer for space. "This incredible track record is the result of the remarkable relationship between SMC, our operators within the 14th Air Force and our ULA/Boeing industry partners. Their continued tenacity and dedication to mission success ensures we continue to maintain a robust satellite constellation with modernized, more resilient GPS capabilities."

Air Force Space Command's Space and Missile Systems Center, located at Los Angeles Air Force Base in El Segundo, California, is the U.S. Air Force's center for acquiring and developing military space systems. Its portfolio includes GPS, military satellite communications, defense meteorological satellites, space launch and range systems, satellite control networks, space-based infrared systems and space situational awareness capabilities.

Lewis007 · « **Reply #129 on:** 02/17/2016 07:49 am »

Another mission patch

Colodie · « **Reply #130 on:** 03/09/2016 03:12 am »

And the final IIF is in service

http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?Do=gpsShowNanu&num=2016022

NOTICE ADVISORY TO NAVSTAR USERS (NANU) 2016022
SUBJ: SVN70 (PRN32) USABLE JDAY 069/0309
1. NANU TYPE: USABINIT
NANU NUMBER: 2016022
NANU DTG: 090310Z MAR 2016
REFERENCE NANU: N/A
REF NANU DTG: N/A
SVN: 70
PRN: 32
START JDAY: 069
START TIME ZULU: 0309
START CALENDAR DATE: 09 MAR 2016
STOP JDAY: N/A
STOP TIME ZULU: N/A
STOP CALENDAR DATE: N/A

2. CONDITION: GPS SATELLITE SVN70 (PRN32) WAS USABLE AS OF JDAY 069
(09 MAR 2016) BEGINNING 0309 ZULU.

3. POC: CIVILIAN - NAVCEN AT 703-313-5900, http://HTTP://WWW.NAVCEN.USCG.GOV
MILITARY - GPS OPERATIONS CENTER AT http://HTTPS://GPS.AFSPC.AF.MIL/GPSOC, DSN 560-2541,
COMM 719-567-2541, [email protected], http://HTTPS://GPS.AFSPC.AF.MIL
MILITARY ALTERNATE - JOINT SPACE OPERATIONS CENTER, DSN 276-3514,
COMM 805-606-3514, [email protected]