Lockheed, Air Force Squadron Conclude GPS III Satellite Tests

Lockheed Martin has gifted the U.S. Air Force’s 2nd Space Operations Squadron a miniature model of a GPS III satellite to mark the conclusion of the spacecraft’s on-orbit tests. Staff Sgt. Joseph Wood, mission chief at 2nd OPS, said the satellite’s performance met the team’s expectations during the tests, the Schriever Air Force Base said Wednesday.

“The vehicle has some autonomous capability, such as the ability to perform on-board calculations and save itself when it senses an anomaly,” said Wood.

He noted the squadron has updated the GPS III’s software and hardware components and is slated to implement training efforts and two system updates in 2020 to prepare for the satellite’s modernization.

The 2nd SOPS uses a Master Control Station to manage ground antennas, monitor stations and the Department of Defense’s spacecraft constellation.