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LIVE: ULA Delta IV-M+(4,2) - GPS IIF-9 - March 25, 2015 (18:36 UTC)
by
beidou
on 22 Sep, 2014 18:20
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#1
by
beidou
on 07 Dec, 2014 10:35
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#2
by
Colodie
on 25 Jan, 2015 06:29
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#3
by
jacqmans
on 28 Jan, 2015 19:22
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United Launch Alliance prepares Delta IV Medium rocket for upcoming GPS IIF SV-9 mission. Image of booster core arriving at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 37 on Jan. 27. Photo: Michael Howard
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#4
by
Targeteer
on 10 Feb, 2015 12:33
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#5
by
Galactic Penguin SST
on 13 Feb, 2015 15:27
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You never knew where you get launch dates and times from.
According to the
KSC Visitor's Center's future events list, liftoff is scheduled at 2:39 pm Eastern (18:39 UTC). Someone who have more time than me may try to calculate which orbital plane of the GPS system is this one heading for.
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#6
by
averagespacejoe
on 20 Feb, 2015 06:03
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Has anyone seen the various patches for this mission? I know as long as MMS is next in line I won't see anything about this one on the ULA website.
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#7
by
Jim
on 20 Feb, 2015 14:12
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Has anyone seen the various patches for this mission? I know as long as MMS is next in line I won't see anything about this one on the ULA website.
they are not out yet. I get every patch and post it so there is no need to ask
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#8
by
beidou
on 11 Mar, 2015 19:27
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#9
by
Colodie
on 12 Mar, 2015 01:49
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Yes. That makes sense that SV-9 (SVN 70) is in production testing, because it is getting skipped in the launch order.
NGA has updated their website, and it now lists SVN-71 as the IIF-9 mission:
Satellite Freq
PRN/SVN Plane Std # Block
26/71 B1F IIF-9 Scheduled launch: March 2015...
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#10
by
jacqmans
on 13 Mar, 2015 06:58
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Delta IV to Launch GPS IIF-9
ULA Delta IV GPS IIF-9 ArtworkDelta IV GPS IIF-9 Mission Overview Brochure
Rocket/Payload: A United Launch Alliance Delta IV Medium+ (4,2) will launch the GPS IIF-9 mission for the U.S. Air Force.
Date/Site/Launch Time: Wednesday, March 25, from Space Launch Complex (SLC)-37 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-9 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-9 marks the 29th Delta IV launch and the 57th operational GPS satellite to launch on a ULA or heritage launch vehicle.
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.
Go Delta! Go GPS IIF-9!
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#11
by
zubenelgenubi
on 13 Mar, 2015 14:33
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Mission overview brochure attached.
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#12
by
Galactic Penguin SST
on 13 Mar, 2015 15:34
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The satellite has been transferred to the pad some time ago.
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#13
by
jacqmans
on 14 Mar, 2015 16:05
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#14
by
kevin-rf
on 14 Mar, 2015 21:29
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Not to be snippy, but is that a cost savings measure to save on draping the launch logo over the tower? It just looks underwhelming.
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#15
by
Jim
on 15 Mar, 2015 01:07
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Not to be snippy, but is that a cost savings measure to save on draping the launch logo over the tower? It just looks underwhelming.
They use to paint it on the tower
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#16
by
beidou
on 15 Mar, 2015 20:35
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Countdown on GPS.GOV website
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#17
by
catdlr
on 18 Mar, 2015 16:53
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GPS IIF-9 Encapsulation
Published on Mar 18, 2015
Space and Missile Systems Center Los Angeles AFB
The GPS IIF-9 satellite is being encapsulated in preparation for its scheduled March 25 launch. This is the first of three GPS IIF satellites scheduled for launch in 2015. Currently, there are 30-operational GPS satellites in orbit.
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#18
by
averagespacejoe
on 19 Mar, 2015 02:54
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Now is it a safe time to ask if anyone has a digital image of the ULA patch for this mission? Last time was a bit early.
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#19
by
jacqmans
on 19 Mar, 2015 06:02
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Delta IV | GPS IIF-9 | March 25, 2:36 pm
https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/events/2015/march/launch-atlas5-gps2f-9.aspx?utm_source=email&utm_medium=full list&utm_campaign=KSC20150319_LAUNCH-ALERT_DeltaIV
Experience the thrilling sights and sounds of a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta IV rocket launch as it lifts off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station carrying a Global Positional Satellite, or GPS IIF-9. This marks the ninth launch of twelve Global Positioning Satellites for the U.S. Air Force.
View the launch of United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta IV rocket from NASA's launch headquarters in prime locations: the LC-39 Observation Gantry and the NASA Causeway located within the secured areas of Kennedy Space Center.
LC-39 Observation Gantry
LC-39 Observation Gantry offers a premium, up-close view of the rocket on the launch pad and during lift off. Just 5.5 miles away from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, guests can feel the force of the launch and hear the roar of the engines. This area features lawn and bleacher seating and live launch commentary. The package includes launch transportation, a light snack and a souvenir t-shirt. Launch Transportation Tickets to LC-39 Observation Gantry are available for $49 in addition to admission. Call 855.475.8415 to purchase tickets. Tickets are limited and only available by calling the Reservations Department.
NASA Causeway
Views from the NASA Causeway include an up-close view of the rocket on the launch pad and during lift off. At only 3 miles away from Space Launch Complex 37, guests may feel shockwaves as they travel across the Banana River during launch. This location includes live launch commentary and bleacher seating. Launch Transportation Tickets to NASA Causeway are available for $49 plus tax, in addition to admission. Purchase your tickets today or call 866.870.6200 to make your reservations. Tickets are limited.
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#20
by
averagespacejoe
on 21 Mar, 2015 15:21
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This is the best image of the patch I got Not digital but maybe that will come out after launch.
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#21
by
beidou
on 21 Mar, 2015 17:47
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#22
by
Billium
on 22 Mar, 2015 17:48
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Please indulge what is surely a dumb question. Wikipedia lists Delta IV medium payload capacity at 4,200kg to GTO and Delta IV medium+ (4,2) payload capacity at 6,150kg to GTO. Wikipedia also lists the mass of GPS block IIF at 1,630kg going to MEO. Is MEO a higher energy orbit than GTO, does Wikipedia have the numbers wrong, could ULA use a Delta IV medium without the +? I guess the MEO orbit is higher energy. Thanks in advance.
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#23
by
Jim
on 22 Mar, 2015 18:15
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Please indulge what is surely a dumb question. Wikipedia lists Delta IV medium payload capacity at 4,200kg to GTO and Delta IV medium+ (4,2) payload capacity at 6,150kg to GTO. Wikipedia also lists the mass of GPS block IIF at 1,630kg going to MEO. Is MEO a higher energy orbit than GTO, does Wikipedia have the numbers wrong, could ULA use a Delta IV medium without the +? I guess the MEO orbit is higher energy. Thanks in advance.
The GPS mission is a 3 burn for the upper stage and places the spacecraft in the final orbit. GTO is not the final orbit for spacecraft and the spacecraft has to perform apogee burns.
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#24
by
edkyle99
on 22 Mar, 2015 19:57
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Please indulge what is surely a dumb question. Wikipedia lists Delta IV medium payload capacity at 4,200kg to GTO and Delta IV medium+ (4,2) payload capacity at 6,150kg to GTO. Wikipedia also lists the mass of GPS block IIF at 1,630kg going to MEO. Is MEO a higher energy orbit than GTO, does Wikipedia have the numbers wrong, could ULA use a Delta IV medium without the +? I guess the MEO orbit is higher energy. Thanks in advance.
The mission is directly to a 20,368 x 20,368 km x 55 deg GPS orbit, which does require more delta-v than a geosynchronous transfer orbit. Delta 4M+4,2 can lift 2.986 tonnes to this orbit, according to the 2007 User's Guide. Delta 4M was listed at 1.988 tonnes.
This does raise a question about why a straight Medium wasn't used. It likely has to do with desired margin and with the fact that the User's Guide numbers include the mass of the payload attach fitting, which might weigh a couple hundred kg. It is also possible that (1) Delta 4 can't really do what the 2007 Guide said it could do or (2) that the satellite weighs more than we think.
- Ed Kyle
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#25
by
macpacheco
on 22 Mar, 2015 20:03
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Please indulge what is surely a dumb question. Wikipedia lists Delta IV medium payload capacity at 4,200kg to GTO and Delta IV medium+ (4,2) payload capacity at 6,150kg to GTO. Wikipedia also lists the mass of GPS block IIF at 1,630kg going to MEO. Is MEO a higher energy orbit than GTO, does Wikipedia have the numbers wrong, could ULA use a Delta IV medium without the +? I guess the MEO orbit is higher energy. Thanks in advance.
The mission is directly to a 20,368 x 20,368 km x 55 deg GPS orbit, which does require more delta-v than a geosynchronous transfer orbit. Delta 4M+4,2 can lift 2.986 tonnes to this orbit, according to the 2007 User's Guide. Delta 4M was listed at 1.988 tonnes.
This does raise a question about why a straight Medium wasn't used. It likely has to do with desired margin and with the fact that the User's Guide numbers include the mass of the payload attach fitting, which might weigh a couple hundred kg. It is also possible that (1) Delta 4 can't really do what the 2007 Guide said it could do or (2) that the satellite weighs more than we think.
- Ed Kyle
Perhaps something to do with the target orbital plane ? Some orbital planes align almost perfectly with a launch from the cape, others don't. I'll be corrected in 10,9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1,launch
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#26
by
chewi
on 23 Mar, 2015 05:29
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#27
by
jacqmans
on 23 Mar, 2015 09:18
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Launch Mission Execution Forecast
Vehicle: Delta IV GPS IIF-9
Issued: 22 March 2015 / 1230Z (0830 EDT)
Valid: 25 March 2015 / 1832 – 1850Z (1432 – 1450 EDT)
Synoptic Discussion: A weak front will move into the area Monday bringing showers and just a slight chance of a thunderstorm. No severe weather is expected. The front will move off to the east Tuesday, and high pressure will build in to the north improving weather. On launch day, the high pressure area to the north will move east causing winds to shift to the southeast and increase through the day. The onshore wind along with low-level moisture will cause isolated morning coastal showers, but showers will decrease by the afternoon launch window. The primary concerns for launch are flight through precipitation and cumulus clouds. Thursday, gusty winds are expected in the morning, but as the high to the east moves away the wind speed will shift southwest and decrease. The moisture in the atmosphere deepens as well, and there is a chance of cumulus clouds with precipitation to develop along the afternoon sea breeze. The primary concerns for a 24-hour delay are, again, flight through precipitation and cumulus clouds.
http://www.patrick.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-071220-067.pdf
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#28
by
douglas100
on 23 Mar, 2015 10:56
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Perhaps something to do with the target orbital plane ? Some orbital planes align almost perfectly with a launch from the cape, others don't. I'll be corrected in 10,9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1,launch
The rotation of the Earth ensures that CCAFS passes through
each plane of the constellation twice a day. So all planes are equally easy to reach. All that changes is the launch window.
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#29
by
kevin-rf
on 23 Mar, 2015 11:13
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Not if you are aiming for a specific slot in the plane.
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#30
by
macpacheco
on 23 Mar, 2015 15:00
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Not if you are aiming for a specific slot in the plane.
Nope, getting to the specific slot is easy once on the right plane.
GPS injections are executed on a higher orbit, like 100Km too high, too high = slower, so the injection is already to an orbit where all they need to do is leave the bird alone while it moves westward compared to other birds, bring it down to the proper (lower orbit) when close to the target. That's part of the performance reserve demanded of each launch (that is actually used).
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#31
by
douglas100
on 23 Mar, 2015 15:40
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Not if you are aiming for a specific slot in the plane.
Do they actually do that? If the satellite is injected into the correct plane can it not just drift to its operational spot during commissioning like a comsat in GSO?
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#32
by
jacqmans
on 24 Mar, 2015 20:20
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photo credit: Carleton Bailie
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#33
by
jacqmans
on 24 Mar, 2015 20:21
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ULA @ulalaunch
Are you ready for #GPSIIF9? The ULA Launch Readiness Review was completed this morning, and we are GO for launch on a #DeltaIV!
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#34
by
Galactic Penguin SST
on 25 Mar, 2015 06:36
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Moved for live coverage! 1st of 3 launches in 7 hours today!
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#35
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 11:19
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#36
by
jacqmans
on 25 Mar, 2015 11:58
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Vehicle: Delta IV GPS IIF-9
Issued: 25 March 2015 / 1200Z (0800 EDT)
Valid: 25 March 2015 / 1836 – 1854Z (1436 – 1454 EDT)
Synoptic Discussion: A strong low-level inversion is prevalent over Cape Canaveral causing morning fog. Visibility is down to less than ½ statute miles, but this fog will burn off between 1100L and 1200L. The high pressure area moving off the U.S. East Coast will cause winds to gradually veer and be from the east-northeast, but gusty winds are now forecast to hold off until Thursday. Showers are occurring along a convergent band 70 nautical miles to the southeast, but these will not be a concern for launch. High clouds are streaming over the area, but are located above the -20C level and are not a concern for launch. With dry air in the mid-levels of the atmosphere, there is only a slight concern for cumulus clouds for launch and the forecast is decreased to just a 10% chance of violating weather constraints. The primary concern for launch is cumulus cloud development. Thursday, the high pressure area to the northeast moves off to the east as a low pressure system moves into the Eastern U.S. Wind flow will shift and be from the southeast, and additional moisture will migrate in from the south as well. Given these factors, there is an increased chance of afternoon showers and late afternoon thunderstorms. Mid-level clouds will also be more prevalent, causing concern for thick cloud layers above the freezing level. Due to this additional concern, the probability of weather constraint violation for a 24-hour delay increased to 60%. The primary concerns for a 24-hour delay are flight through precipitation, cumulus clouds, and thick cloud layers.
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#37
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 12:06
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ULA: A few photos and a caption from tower rollback this morning. First motion was at 6:05 a.m. Today’s launch day forecast shows a 90 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for launch.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (March 25, 2015) - A United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket stands ready for launch at Space Launch Complex-37 with the GPS IIF-9 payload. Launch is scheduled for this afternoon at 2:36 p.m. EDT. GPS IIF-9 is the ninth in a series of next generation GPS satellites and will join a worldwide timing and navigation system utilizing 24 satellites in six different planes, with a minimum of four satellites per plane positioned in orbit approximately 11,000 miles above the Earth’s surface.
Photo: United Launch Alliance
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#38
by
ZachS09
on 25 Mar, 2015 12:34
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The foggy rollout reminds me of the August 2013 rollout of NROL-65.
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#39
by
averagespacejoe
on 25 Mar, 2015 14:03
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Has anyone seen the various patches for this mission? I know as long as MMS is next in line I won't see anything about this one on the ULA website.
they are not out yet. I get every patch and post it so there is no need to ask
You know Jim when I first asked this you were really snippy but now 4 hours before launch still no picture of the patch from you. So I guess there was a need to ask because you don't necessarily post it. Just had to get that off my chest. Go Delta IV! Go ULA! Go GPS IIF-9!
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#40
by
edkyle99
on 25 Mar, 2015 14:07
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Last GPS 2F to fly on a Delta 4. A couple of GPS 3A launches are, or were, planned for 2017.
- Ed Kyle
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#41
by
ZachS09
on 25 Mar, 2015 14:18
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Last GPS 2F to fly on a Delta 4. A couple of GPS 3A launches are, or were, planned for 2017.
- Ed Kyle
Saddening for one reason: the Delta IV is nearing retirement.
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#42
by
Jim
on 25 Mar, 2015 14:59
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Has anyone seen the various patches for this mission? I know as long as MMS is next in line I won't see anything about this one on the ULA website.
they are not out yet. I get every patch and post it so there is no need to ask
You know Jim when I first asked this you were really snippy but now 4 hours before launch still no picture of the patch from you. So I guess there was a need to ask because you don't necessarily post it. Just had to get that off my chest. Go Delta IV! Go ULA! Go GPS IIF-9!
MMS is still not out. Anyways, the patches don't disappear after the launch
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#43
by
jacqmans
on 25 Mar, 2015 15:16
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#44
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:02
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#45
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:06
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#46
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:07
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#47
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:07
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#48
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:08
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#49
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:10
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Denver operations, as ULA try and be all social media cool with Skype and Twitter questions.....
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#50
by
Prober
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:12
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#51
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:15
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"Tory on Twitter asks, why is ULA so much cooler than SpaceX?"
Annnnnnnnnnnd we're back with the vehicle, thank goodness.
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#52
by
Prober
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:16
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looks like some thick clouds
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#53
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:17
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Not working any issues.
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#54
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:18
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Weather is go, with a 10 percent chance of violation.
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#55
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:19
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L-17 mins.
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#56
by
Galactic Penguin SST
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:19
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looks like some thick clouds
Weather is go, with a 10 percent chance of violation.
Ground fog apparently - from what I saw on social media blue skies are just above.
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#57
by
Prober
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:19
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Weather is go, with a 10 percent chance of violation.
nice warm 73 deg...
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#58
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:20
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T-4 mins and holding. L-15 mins.
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#59
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:23
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L-12 mins.
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#60
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:24
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Will be polling at T-7 mins to come out of the hold.
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#61
by
Prober
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:25
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showing some Delta II launches of the early GPS
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#62
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:25
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Yeah, you can tell it's ground fog in this view.
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#63
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:26
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L-10 mins. Solar Radiation is acceptable.
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#64
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:28
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#65
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:29
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Polling to come out of the hold.
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#66
by
Prober
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:29
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#67
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:30
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All GO. Heh, one controller got a bit excited with his "GO!!" there
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#68
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:30
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Coming out of the hold in 120 seconds.
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#69
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:32
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#70
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:32
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Transferring vehicle to internal.
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#71
by
Prober
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:33
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#72
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:33
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Securing prop and into press.
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#73
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:33
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Ordnance armed.
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#74
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:34
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T-120 seconds.
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#75
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:35
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T-60 seconds. Range Green.
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#76
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:35
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GREEN BOARD.
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#77
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:36
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#78
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:37
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#79
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:37
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#80
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:38
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#81
by
Prober
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:38
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#82
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:41
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#83
by
Prober
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:42
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#84
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:45
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#85
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:48
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#86
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:52
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#87
by
Kim Keller
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:54
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#88
by
ZachS09
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:55
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This is what I call the Eastern Coast version of Vandenberg launches straight out of the fog. Does anybody agree with my analogy?
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#89
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:56
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Great picture Kim! And GP gets a question answered on the feed
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#90
by
Kim Keller
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:57
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This is what I call the Eastern Coast version of Vandenberg launches straight out of the fog. Does anybody agree with my analogy?
Completely. The breeze on the causeway was even Vandenberg-like in temperature.
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#91
by
Galactic Penguin SST
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:58
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Great picture Kim! And GP gets a question answered on the feed
And apparently the trajectory change was to use the best route to reach the orbital slot within the planes.
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#92
by
Mapperuo
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:58
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#93
by
Kim Keller
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:59
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#94
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:59
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#95
by
Kim Keller
on 25 Mar, 2015 17:59
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#96
by
Kim Keller
on 25 Mar, 2015 18:01
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#97
by
Jim
on 25 Mar, 2015 18:03
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Closer than Kim's photos.
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#98
by
Kim Keller
on 25 Mar, 2015 18:10
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Closer than Kim's photos.
ASOC?
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#99
by
catdlr
on 25 Mar, 2015 18:19
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#100
by
sts126
on 25 Mar, 2015 18:36
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Thanks to all who posted to this thread for launch. As I am in china, limited access to ula web site so I was able to follow this launch here. Well done Chris B and Kim. looking forward to write up on this!
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#101
by
catdlr
on 25 Mar, 2015 18:59
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[Delta IV] Launch of Delta IV Rocket with GPS IIF-9 Satellite
Published on Mar 25, 2015
An all American Delta IV Medium rocket successfully launched today, March 25th 2015 at 18:36 UTC, 14:36 Local time from Cape Canaveral. The rocket carried the GPS IIF-9 satellite into orbit.
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#102
by
ZachS09
on 25 Mar, 2015 19:00
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Only two more Delta IV rockets to launch in 2015. One from the Cape and the other from Vandenberg in that order.
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#103
by
catdlr
on 25 Mar, 2015 19:00
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[Delta IV] Assembly Mission Highlights of GPS IIF-9 & Delta IV Rocket
Published on Mar 25, 2015
See the final steps of assembly for the GPS IIF-9 mission on a Delta IV medium rocket.
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#104
by
sts126
on 25 Mar, 2015 19:13
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I flip it for you Jim;
thanks for conversion so i could play on ipad!
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#105
by
Alpha Control
on 25 Mar, 2015 19:20
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Closer than Kim's photos.
Very nice. Great audio, too.
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#106
by
Galactic Penguin SST
on 25 Mar, 2015 21:02
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Spacecraft separation has been confirmed apparently.
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#107
by
Chris Bergin
on 25 Mar, 2015 21:11
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Yep. Success:
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (March 25, 2015) A United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta IV rocket successfully launched the ninth Global Positioning System (GPS) IIF satellite for the U.S. Air Force at 2:36 p.m. EDT today from Space Launch Complex-37. This is ULA’s fourth launch in 2015 and the 95th successful launch since the company was formed in December 2006.
United Launch Alliance Successfully Launches Second
Mission in Less than Two Weeks
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., (March 25, 2015) – A United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta IV rocket successfully launched the ninth Global Positioning System (GPS) IIF satellite for the U.S. Air Force at 2:36 p.m. EDT today from Space Launch Complex-37. This is ULA’s fourth launch in 2015 and the 95th successful launch since the company was formed in December 2006.
“Congratulations to the Air Force and all of our mission partners on today’s successful launch of GPS IIF-9! The ULA team is privileged to work with this world-class U.S. government and contractor mission team, and we are proud to contribute to the GPS capabilities that were delivered to orbit today,” said Jim Sponnick, ULA vice president, Atlas and Delta Programs. “This entire team is focused on 100 percent mission success, one launch at a time, and also providing on-time launches to meet our customer’s mission needs.”
This mission was launched aboard a Delta IV Medium-plus (4,2) configuration Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) using a single ULA common booster core powered by an Aerojet Rocketdyne RS-68 main engine, along with two Orbital ATK GEM-60 solid rocket motors. The upper stage was powered by an Aerojet Rocketdyne RL10B-2 engine with the satellite encapsulated in a four-meter-diameter composite payload fairing.
GPS IIF-9 is the ninth in a series of next generation GPS satellites and will join the GPS worldwide timing and navigation system utilizing 24 satellites in six different planes, with a minimum of four satellites per plane positioned in orbit approximately 11,000 miles above the Earth’s surface. The GPS IIF series provides improved accuracy and enhanced performance for GPS users.
ULA's next launch is the Atlas V AFSPC-5 mission for the United States Air Force, scheduled for May 6 from Space Launch Complex-41 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.
The EELV program was established by the United States 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 90 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.
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#108
by
Rocket Science
on 25 Mar, 2015 21:19
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Congrats to all the teams, well done!
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#109
by
ZachS09
on 25 Mar, 2015 21:48
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For now until 2017, Delta kisses the GPS satellites goodbye.
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#110
by
Galactic Penguin SST
on 25 Mar, 2015 22:09
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#111
by
Mark McCombs
on 25 Mar, 2015 22:37
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Congrats to ULA et al. for another successful launch.
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#112
by
Galactic Penguin SST
on 26 Mar, 2015 05:01
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GoPros!
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#113
by
Lars-J
on 26 Mar, 2015 05:24
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GoPros!
Wow, that thing really flew off the pad!
Congrats on a great flight!
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#114
by
Lewis007
on 26 Mar, 2015 10:47
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#115
by
Keeper of Maps
on 26 Mar, 2015 16:02
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#116
by
Chris Bergin
on 26 Mar, 2015 16:14
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That's what we class as a good first post. Welcome to the site's forum Keeper!
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#117
by
Chris Bergin
on 26 Mar, 2015 16:20
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Closer than Kim's photos.
Only just noticed that.
Florida: When you hear a rumble, pull over and watch. Amazing coming through the clouds!
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#118
by
jacqmans
on 26 Mar, 2015 19:47
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Orbital ATK Contributions Vital to Successful Launch of ULA's Delta IV Rocket
ULA Delta IV Launch Vehicle Lofts GPS IIF-9 Satellite Into Orbit for U.S. Air Force
GPS IIF-9 First of Three GPS Satellites to be Launched in 2015
(Dulles, Virginia 26 March 2015) – Orbital ATK, Inc. (NYSE: OA) technologies played a crucial role in Wednesday’s successful launch of a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, and the on-orbit operation of a new Boeing GPS IIF satellite. The satellite will provide improved accuracy, signal strength and quality to America’s warfighters, allies and civil users worldwide.
Orbital ATK’s contributions to the Delta IV and GPS IIF include cutting-edge technologies from across the company. In addition to the state-of-the art solar arrays and other critical components on the GPS IIF satellite, contributions include the two Graphite Epoxy Motors-60 (GEM-60), large composite structures and the main engine nozzle.
“Orbital ATK’s contributions to the Delta IV GPS IIF-9 mission are prime examples of the affordable, innovative and reliable products we offer,” said Ron Grabe, President of Orbital ATK’s Flight Systems Group. “These products are crucial to our nation and millions of GPS users around the world.”
ULA’s Delta family of launch vehicles has been lifting high-priority government and commercial payloads to orbit for more than 50 years. This launch marks the 371st Delta rocket since 1960 and the 29th Delta IV since 2002. It also marks the 69th GPS satellite launch and the 55th to use a Delta rocket.
The Delta IV medium-plus rocket flew in a configuration featuring two Orbital ATK commercial GEM-60 solid rocket motors produced in Magna, Utah. These motors boast a flawless record and are the 43rd and 44th GEM-60s to fly. Their 90 seconds of flight time and 560,000 pounds of thrust boosted the 371st Delta vehicle into the sky.
The nozzle for the launch vehicle’s RS-68 engine was designed and manufactured at Orbital ATK’s facility in Promontory, Utah. The nozzle design includes an Orbital ATK-developed thermal protection material that is capable of shielding the nozzle from the extreme heat of launch when external temperatures can exceed 4,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Delta IV composite structures manufactured by Orbital ATK provide higher performance with lower weight and include:
• The GEM cases, manufactured using advanced wet winding techniques at Orbital ATK’s Clearfield, Utah facility.
• The fairing, payload attach fitting and diaphragm, interstage, centerbody and thermal shield, all produced using advanced hand layup, machining and inspection techniques at Orbital ATK’s Iuka, Mississippi facility.
For the GPS IIF-9 satellite, Orbital ATK provided a host of products and services:
• Orbital ATK’s Goleta, California facility designed and manufactured the satellite solar arrays and a deployment boom. Orbital ATK has achieved 100 percent on-orbit success on all solar arrays and deployable systems delivered and launched to date.
• Orbital ATK’s San Diego, California facility manufactured the composite solar array substrates.
• Orbital ATK’s Commerce, California, facility had responsibility for the ullage tank assembly, including the blankets, heaters, thermistors and pressurant lines. This tank is a spherical vessel constructed of titanium.
• Orbital ATK’s Beltsville, Maryland facility provided heat pipes for the GPS IIF equipment and radiator panels.
• Orbital ATK’s Rancho Bernardo, California facility performed final assembly and RF (Radio Frequency) testing of the antenna suite for GPS IIF between 2003 and 2010.
ULA will deliver two more GPS IIF satellites into orbit this year, and then another in early 2016 to complete the IIF series. These satellites will be delivered into medium-Earth orbits and will circle the globe every 12 hours, providing critical Navstar positioning, velocity, and timing assets fully functional until the next-generation GPS Block IIIA comes online in 2016. In addition to their civilian usage, the Block IIF satellites boast enhanced accuracy, reprogrammable processors, interference-free signals for commercial aviation, search and rescue capability, and a new Military code that is better resistant to electronic jamming.
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#119
by
Keeper of Maps
on 27 Mar, 2015 00:23
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That's what we class as a good first post. Welcome to the site's forum Keeper!
Thanks!
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#120
by
Galactic Penguin SST
on 28 Mar, 2015 09:55
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#121
by
russianhalo117
on 28 Mar, 2015 14:28
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#122
by
averagespacejoe
on 07 Apr, 2015 03:33
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Found it finally! Asked ULA CEO on Twitter and someone took pity on me and sent it over
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#123
by
Lewis007
on 07 Apr, 2015 07:26
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"Deneb patch" of the launch team
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#124
by
Jim
on 07 Apr, 2015 14:12
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"Deneb patch" of the launch team
That is of the spacecraft processing team
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#125
by
woods170
on 07 Apr, 2015 15:36
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"Deneb patch" of the launch team
That is of the spacecraft processing team
Multiple teams produce multiple patches. I've even seen patches for transportation of spacecraft to the launch site. One of those, for some NASA science payload read "Carefull please, only child" with the patch showing a nurse holding a pillow with the spacecraft positioned on top of the pillow.
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#126
by
Colodie
on 20 Apr, 2015 23:40
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And again, SVN 71 was set health today.
NOTICE ADVISORY TO NAVSTAR USERS (NANU) 2015028
SUBJ: SVN71 (PRN26) USABLE JDAY 110/2222
1. NANU TYPE: USABINIT
NANU NUMBER: 2015028
NANU DTG: 202222Z APR 2015
REFERENCE NANU: N/A
REF NANU DTG: N/A
SVN: 71
PRN: 26
START JDAY: 110
START TIME ZULU: 2222
START CALENDAR DATE: 20 APR 2015
STOP JDAY: N/A
STOP TIME ZULU: N/A
STOP CALENDAR DATE: N/A
2. CONDITION: GPS SATELLITE SVN71 (PRN26) WAS USABLE AS OF JDAY 110
(20 APR 2015) BEGINNING 2222 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]
Congrats on a great flight!