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GPS Keeps Getting Better

The ninth GPS IIF is launched aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta IV on Wednesday. Liftoff occurred on time at 2:36 p.m. Eastern. (United Launch Alliance photo)
The ninth GPS IIF is launched aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta IV on Wednesday. Liftoff occurred on time at 2:36 p.m. Eastern. (United Launch Alliance photo)

Chances are that every day, you benefit from GPS. Whether it’s to complete an online banking transaction, or taking a plane trip, the benefits of GPS  extend to every aspect of daily life. Equally important, GPS equipment is keeping U.S. service men and women around the globe safer and more secure.  

Making sure that GPS is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, falls to the U.S. Air Force, which manages the constellation  of GPS satellites  that circle the earth to provide the position, navigation and timing information that is the heart of GPS.  A new generation of GPS satellites , built by Boeing, are being launched to sustain the constellation and strengthen its accuracy and security. Four were launched in 2014, and the first of three planned for 2015 is now on orbit.  

The steady launch tempo means that GPS keeps getting better.  

View the Delta IV GPS IIF-9 launch highlights video here .  

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