# USA-71

> American navigation satellite used for GPS

**Wikidata**: [Q7865702](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7865702)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA-71)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/usa-71

## Summary
USA-71 is an American navigation satellite used for the Global Positioning System (GPS). Also known by the alias GPS IIA-2, it was manufactured by Rockwell International and launched on July 4, 1991. The satellite is operated by the United States Air Force to support global navigation capabilities.

## Key Facts
- **Entity Type:** GPS satellite (American navigation satellite).
- **Launch Date:** July 4, 1991.
- **Launch Vehicle:** Delta II (retired expendable launch system).
- **Launch Site:** Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 17.
- **Manufacturer:** Rockwell International.
- **Operator:** United States Air Force.
- **Country:** United States.
- **COSPAR ID:** 1991-047A.
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 21552.
- **Aliases:** GPS IIA-2.

## FAQs
### Q: What is USA-71?
A: USA-71 is an American navigation satellite that functions as part of the Global Positioning System (GPS). It is also identified by the alias GPS IIA-2.

### Q: When was USA-71 launched?
A: USA-71 was launched on July 4, 1991. The launch took place at Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 17.

### Q: Who manufactured and operates USA-71?
A: The satellite was manufactured by Rockwell International and is operated by the United States Air Force.

## Why It Matters
USA-71 serves as a specific unit within the broader NAVSTAR Global Positioning System, contributing to the infrastructure required for global positioning, navigation, and timing. As a spacecraft manufactured by Rockwell International and launched in the early 1990s, it represents a period of expansion for the GPS constellation, which is critical for both military and civilian applications worldwide. Its deployment via the Delta II rocket highlights the reliance on expendable launch systems during that era to maintain and upgrade satellite networks. The satellite's operation by the United States Air Force underscores the military origin and strategic importance of the GPS network.

## Notable For
- **Classification:** Identified specifically as a "GPS satellite" within the NAVSTAR system.
- **Launch Timing:** Launched on July 4, 1991 (Independence Day in the United States).
- **Designation:** Carries the COSPAR ID 1991-047A and Satellite Catalog Number 21552.
- **Manufacturing:** Built by Rockwell International, a major defense contractor during the development of the GPS network.

## Body
### Identity and Classification
USA-71 is classified as a GPS satellite, a type of spacecraft used by the NAVSTAR Global Positioning System. It is attributed to the United States and carries the alternative designation GPS IIA-2. Its unique identifiers include the COSPAR ID 1991-047A and the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) 21552.

### Launch and Deployment
The satellite was launched on July 4, 1991, utilizing a Delta II rocket, a now-retired expendable launch system. The launch originated from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 17. This event is recorded as a significant rocket launch in the satellite's operational history.

### Manufacturer and Operations
Rockwell International served as the manufacturer for USA-71. Upon deployment, the satellite entered service under the operation of the United States Air Force.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report