The latest third-generation Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite was launched into orbit from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This launch marked a first-of-its-kind mission for the U.S. Space Force, utilizing a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The mission, previously known as “RRT-1,” stands for “Rapid Response Trailblazer.” Onboard was the GPS 3 Space Vehicle (SV) 07.
The spacecraft will continue to operate out of Lockheed Martin’s Denver Launch & Checkout Operations Center until its official acceptance into the current operational GPS 31-satellite constellation. Originally scheduled to launch on a United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket, the mission was pivoted to a Falcon 9 rocket due to delays. The satellite was transported from Colorado to Florida by road, covering 2,337 miles in six days. The GPS 3 SV-07 was named ‘Sally Ride,’ after the first American woman in space.
