# USA-177

> American navigation satellite used for GPS

**Wikidata**: [Q7865662](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7865662)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA-177)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/usa-177

## Summary
USA-177 is an American navigation satellite used for the Global Positioning System (GPS), also known as Navstar 54, which was launched in 2004 and is operated by the United States Air Force.

## Key Facts
- USA-177 is a GPS satellite used for navigation as part of the NAVSTAR system
- It was launched on March 20, 2004, from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 17
- The satellite was manufactured by Lockheed Martin and launched using a Delta II rocket
- Its COSPAR identification number is 2004-009A
- It is operated by the United States Air Force
- The satellite is also known as Navstar 54
- It is classified as a GPS satellite under the Delta rocket family

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary purpose of USA-177?
A: USA-177 serves as a navigation satellite for the Global Positioning System (GPS), providing positioning and timing services.

### Q: When was USA-177 launched?
A: The satellite was launched on March 20, 2004, from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 17.

### Q: Which organization operates USA-177?
A: The United States Air Force operates USA-177 as part of the GPS satellite constellation.

## Why It Matters
USA-177 is part of the Global Positioning System (GPS), which provides essential navigation and timing services worldwide. As a GPS satellite, it contributes to the constellation that enables precise positioning, timing, and navigation capabilities used in military, commercial, and civilian applications. The GPS system has revolutionized how people and organizations navigate, locate positions, and coordinate activities globally. The satellite's operation by the United States Air Force indicates its strategic importance for national security and defense applications, while its civilian use demonstrates the system's broad utility in transportation, emergency services, and scientific research.

## Notable For
- USA-177 is specifically designated as Navstar 54, distinguishing it from other GPS satellites
- It represents the Delta II rocket family's role in launching GPS satellites
- The satellite operates under the United States Air Force's control, highlighting military-civilian collaboration in GPS technology
- It uses the COSPAR ID 2004-009A for international identification and tracking
- Manufactured by Lockheed Martin, it represents the aerospace industry's contribution to GPS infrastructure

## Body
### Technical Specifications and Classification
USA-177 is classified as a GPS satellite, specifically designated as Navstar 54. It operates as part of the NAVSTAR Global Positioning System, which provides global positioning and timing services. The satellite was launched on March 20, 2004, from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 17 using a Delta II expendable launch system. The Delta II rocket, which has been retired from service, was part of the Delta rocket family used for various satellite deployments.

### Operational Details
The satellite is operated by the United States Air Force, indicating its military and strategic importance. It was manufactured by Lockheed Martin, a major aerospace contractor. The satellite's COSPAR identification number is 2004-009A, which is used internationally for tracking and cataloging space objects. The satellite's designation as USA-177 indicates it belongs to the United States military's space assets.

### Launch and Deployment
The launch occurred from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 17, a major launch facility in Florida. The Delta II rocket provided the necessary thrust to place the satellite into its operational orbit. The launch date of March 20, 2004, marks when the satellite began its mission in the GPS constellation. The Delta II launch vehicle, while now retired, was instrumental in deploying multiple GPS satellites throughout the system's development.

### System Integration
As part of the GPS constellation, USA-177 works with other satellites to provide continuous global coverage. The GPS system uses a network of approximately 24 satellites in medium Earth orbit to provide positioning accuracy within meters. The satellite's operation contributes to the system's redundancy and reliability, ensuring continuous service for users worldwide. The United States Air Force's control indicates the system's military significance while its civilian applications demonstrate the technology's broad utility.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report