# GPS-III SV01

> GPS III satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q83277259](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q83277259)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA-289)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gps-iii-sv01

## Summary
GPS-III SV01 is the first satellite in the GPS Block III series, launched on December 23, 2018, as part of the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS) modernization program. It was built by Lockheed Martin Space and launched by SpaceX using a Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket, marking a significant upgrade to the GPS constellation with improved accuracy, signal power, and resistance to jamming.

## Key Facts
- **First GPS Block III satellite**: GPS-III SV01 was the inaugural satellite in the GPS Block III series, launched on December 23, 2018.
- **Mass**: Weighs 4,400 kg at launch and 2,269 kg dry.
- **Orbit**: Operates in medium Earth orbit (MEO).
- **Power source**: Equipped with two spacecraft solar arrays and uses LEROS propulsion.
- **Launch vehicle**: Launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket (Booster B1054).
- **Operator**: Managed by the United States Space Force.
- **Aliases**: Also known as GPS-3 1, Navstar 74, Vespucci, GPS SVN 74, and USA-289.
- **Spacecraft bus**: Based on Lockheed Martin’s A2100 platform.
- **Significant event**: Successfully deployed from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 40.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary purpose of GPS-III SV01?
A: GPS-III SV01 is part of the U.S. GPS modernization program, designed to enhance signal accuracy, power, and resistance to interference, improving global navigation capabilities.

### Q: Who built and launched GPS-III SV01?
A: The satellite was built by Lockheed Martin Space and launched by SpaceX using a Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket on December 23, 2018.

### Q: How does GPS-III SV01 differ from previous GPS satellites?
A: GPS-III SV01 represents a major upgrade with advanced features like a new civil signal (L1C), improved anti-jamming capabilities, and a longer operational lifespan compared to earlier GPS satellites.

### Q: What is the significance of GPS-III SV01’s launch date?
A: Launched on December 23, 2018, GPS-III SV01 marked the first deployment of the GPS Block III series, initiating a phased replacement of older GPS satellites.

### Q: What is the role of the United States Space Force in GPS-III SV01?
A: The U.S. Space Force operates GPS-III SV01 as part of the Global Positioning System, ensuring its functionality and integration into the broader GPS network.

## Why It Matters
GPS-III SV01 is a pivotal component of the U.S. government’s effort to modernize the Global Positioning System (GPS). As the first satellite in the GPS Block III series, it introduces critical advancements such as a new civil signal (L1C), enhanced anti-jamming capabilities, and improved signal power. These upgrades significantly boost the accuracy and reliability of GPS services, benefiting civilian and military users worldwide. The satellite’s deployment also marks the first use of a SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket for a GPS launch, demonstrating the growing collaboration between the U.S. Space Force and commercial space providers. By enhancing the GPS constellation, GPS-III SV01 plays a crucial role in maintaining and expanding the system’s capabilities, ensuring its continued dominance in global navigation and timing services.

## Notable For
- **First GPS Block III satellite**: Pioneered the next-generation GPS constellation with advanced features.
- **SpaceX launch debut**: Marked the first GPS satellite launched by a Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket.
- **Enhanced signal power**: Delivered stronger signals for improved accuracy and reliability.
- **Anti-jamming technology**: Featured advanced resistance to interference, critical for military and civilian use.
- **Modernized civil signal**: Introduced the L1C signal, expanding GPS capabilities for commercial and public use.

## Body
### Overview
GPS-III SV01, also known as USA-289, is the inaugural satellite in the GPS Block III series, launched on December 23, 2018. Developed by Lockheed Martin Space and launched by SpaceX using a Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket, it represents a significant leap in GPS technology.

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: The satellite weighs 4,400 kg at launch and 2,269 kg dry.
- **Power**: Equipped with two spacecraft solar arrays and LEROS propulsion.
- **Orbit**: Operates in medium Earth orbit (MEO).
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Based on Lockheed Martin’s A2100 platform.

### Mission and Features
- **Primary Mission**: Enhance GPS accuracy, signal power, and resistance to jamming.
- **Key Features**: Includes the new L1C civil signal, improved anti-jamming capabilities, and a longer operational lifespan.
- **Operator**: Managed by the United States Space Force.

### Launch Details
- **Launch Date**: December 23, 2018, at 13:51 UTC.
- **Launch Site**: Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 40.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Falcon 9 Block 5 (Booster B1054).
- **Launch Contractor**: SpaceX.

### Identification and Aliases
- **Official Designations**: GPS-3 1, Navstar 74, GPS SVN 74, USA-289.
- **Nickname**: Vespucci.

### Significance
- **Modernization**: GPS-III SV01 is part of the U.S. effort to modernize the GPS constellation, ensuring continued reliability and accuracy.
- **Collaboration**: The launch marked the first GPS satellite deployed by SpaceX, highlighting the growing partnership between the U.S. Space Force and commercial space providers.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/navstar-3.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report