GPS
programGlobal Positioning System (GPS) provides geolocation and time information via satellite-based navigation.
The Global Positioning System (GPS), originally known as NAVSTAR, was developed by the US Department of Defense to offer all-weather navigation capabilities for military forces. Operated by the United States Space Force, GPS is a key component of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and is widely used for various applications, including autonomous navigation in space missions. The system has evolved to support both military and civilian users, with significant advancements in accuracy and reliability since its full operational capability in 1994.
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Two launches by SpaceX
SpaceX completed two launches on April 20 and 21, 2026. The first launch deployed 25 Starlink satellites using Falcon 9, marking its first stage's 8th flight. The second launch delivered a GPS satellite for the Space Force, with the first stage completing its 7th flight. This shift from ULA to SpaceX marked the fastest contract-to-launch timeline for the Space Force.
Space Force kills OCX GPS ground control system, citing ‘insurmountable’ challenges
Space Force has cancelled the Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX) contract due to insurmountable challenges, as announced on April 17th. The program, managed by RTX, incurred costs of $6.27 billion, significantly exceeding initial estimates. Moving forward, the Space Force will enhance the existing GPS ground system, awarding Lockheed Martin a $105 million contract for related upgrades.
Pentagon officially ends OCX program, citing risk and delays
Pentagon officially terminated the OCX program on April 20, concluding a 15-year effort to modernize the Global Positioning System ground system. The decision, made on April 17, cited unacceptable risks and delays. The Space Force awarded Lockheed Martin a $105 million contract to upgrade the existing Architecture Evolution Plan system to support newer GPS satellites.
USSF terminates contract for the Global Positioning System Next Generation Operational Control System
USSF has terminated the contract for the Global Positioning System Next Generation Operational Control System due to its failure to deliver essential capabilities within an operationally relevant timeline. This decision reflects the need to mitigate risks associated with the modernization of the GPS constellation, ensuring that future systems meet the required performance standards and timelines.
See NASA’s GUARDIAN Catch a Tsunami
GUARDIAN (GNSS Upper Atmospheric Real-time Disaster Information and Alert Network) is an experimental NASA technology that detects tsunami hazards by analyzing satellite navigation signal distortions. During the Kamchatka earthquake on July 29, 2025, GUARDIAN provided early warnings, flagging an incoming tsunami 32 minutes before it reached Kauai, enhancing existing early warning systems for communities at risk.