SpaceX plans launch of advanced GPS satellite for Space Force

SpaceX was set to launch an advanced GPS satellite for the U.S. Space Force at 1:23 p.m. ET on Friday from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The satellite, GPS 3, will be launched into orbit by a Falcon 9 rocket. The preparation for this launch was completed in record time, less than three days, a significant improvement from the usual 18-24 months. Space Force Col. Jim Horne praised the speedy preparation process, highlighting the Space Force’s ability to quickly respond to urgent mission needs. The weather forecast for the launch on Friday shows a 45% chance of favorable weather conditions. Lockheed Martin, the GPS III satellite manufacturer, received notice to prepare the satellite for launch on February 21. Compared to the previous satellite launch, the preparation for this one was less challenging. Lockheed Martin vice president Malik Musawwir noted that the integration of components for the satellite typically takes four to five months. Two more satellites are ready for future launches using ULA Vulcan rockets, with no plans to transfer them to SpaceX.