Boeing Receives On-Orbit Signals from its GPS Satellite; Craig Cooning Comments

Boeing has received initial signals from its global positioning system satellite from space following the spacecraft’s Thursday launch.

The GPS IIF 5 satellite was launched into space aboard  a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., and transmitted signals after more than three hours, Boeing said Friday.

The spacecraft has joined four other GPS IIF satellites that are built for positioning, navigational and timing information services for the civilian and military users worldwide.

Craig Cooning, Boeing vice president and general manager of space and intelligence systems, said the satellite system is intended to help fulfill space mission requirements.

GPS IIF 5 is set to join the active GPS constellation after going through on-orbit activation, checkout and evaluation.

Boeing is preparing the sixth GPS IIF at its Florida-based facility for a scheduled launch in the second quarter of 2014.