Next-gen GPS operational control system software from Raytheon completes launch readiness exercise
NewsMay 03, 2013
AURORA, Colo. Raytheon engineers finished the second launch readiness exercise of the next generation Global Positioning System (GPS) operational control system (OCX) for the U.S. Air Force. Exercise 2's completion demonstrates that the OCX software from Raytheon meets mission requirements and is on track for the first GPS III satellite launch.
The exercise -- built on the functionality tested during Exercise 1, simulated a liquid apogee engine burn for inserting the GPS III vehicle into transfer orbit and then evaluated vehicle telemetry, maneuver planning, and execution.
The Lockheed Martin-built GPS III satellites and Raytheon's OCX are part the Air Force's plan to cost-effectively replace aging GPS satellites while also improving capabilities to meet the evolving demands of military, civilian, and commercial users worldwide.