United Launch Alliance launched a Delta IV rocket to send a GPS satellite into space from Cape Canaveral Thursday morning.
The last launch for this particular Delta IV rocket took off at 9:06 a.m.
ULA space captain integrator Glenn Davis said the satellite aboard the rocket is three times more accurate than others.
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A new launch time of 9:06amEDT (1306 UTC) has been established for the #DeltaIV.
— ULA (@ulalaunch) August 22, 2019
"It has enhanced capabilities compared to past GPS satellites,” Davis said.
Nicknamed Magellan, Davis said its primary use will be for the U.S. Air Force’s space and missile system. He said the satellite will have an anti-jam feature to make sure there will never be a breakdown in communications.
"It will be providing critical positioning data for our war fighters on the ground," Davis said.
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He said Magellan is the next step in modernizing the worldwide navigation network.
“It provides critical and accurate data for aviation, maritime and railroad. It is key to our global economy,” he said.
But he said the GPS satellite will also improve some very practical uses most people use daily. The next time you ask your smartphone for directions, he said, they'll be more accurate, because the signal will be stronger.
WATCH: ULA launches rocket, satellite into space from Cape CanaveralLIFTOFF! 🚀 United Launch Alliance launched a Delta IV rocket to send a GPS satellite into space from Cape Canaveral Thursday morning. 🤩 READ MORE: https://at.wftv.com/2KZzuEn
Posted by WFTV Channel 9 on Thursday, August 22, 2019
Separation of the first stage, ignition of the second stage and payload fairing jettison have occurred. The @AerojetRdyne RL10B-2 engine is up and running for the first of its two burns to send Magellan towards the GPS constellation to improve global navigation.
— ULA (@ulalaunch) August 22, 2019
#DeltaIV has broken the sound barrier and passed the period of maximum aerodynamic stresses in the lower atmosphere. Main engine and both SRMs are firing to lift #GPSIIISV02 toward the navigation constellation. Watch the launch live: https://t.co/viyWfUdVvo
— ULA (@ulalaunch) August 22, 2019
LIFTOFF of the United Launch Alliance #DeltaIV rocket, modernizing the Global Positioning System to benefit the world with the practical aspects of space! @usairforce @AF_SMC @LockheedMartinhttps://t.co/viyWfUdVvo
— ULA (@ulalaunch) August 22, 2019
The countdown has entered the planned 30-minute built-in hold at T-minus 4 minutes. The final readiness polls will be performed during this hold before permission is given to launch. Liftoff time remains targeted for 9:01amEDT (1301 UTC). https://t.co/viyWfUdVvo
— ULA (@ulalaunch) August 22, 2019
Engineers have completed the ground software review and the team recommends proceeding with the the countdown and fueling operations.
— ULA (@ulalaunch) August 22, 2019
The #DeltaIV first stage is being loaded with 110,000 gallons of super-cold liquid hydrogen that is chilled to minus-423 degrees Fahrenheit. The propellant will feed the RS-68A main engine during launch. pic.twitter.com/FeSJYGGhKc
— ULA (@ulalaunch) August 22, 2019
We are GO to fuel the #DeltaIV rocket with 165,000 gallons of liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. ULA Launch Director Paul Aragon has authorized cryogenic tanking operations to begin as the countdown continues this morning. Fueling updates: https://t.co/viyWfUdVvo pic.twitter.com/zGITZVhetZ
— ULA (@ulalaunch) August 22, 2019
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