Air Force Space Command has upgraded the software for the Global Positioning System ground control element at Schriever AFB, Colo. The changeover to the new software occurred, as scheduled, on Jan. 11, a spokesman for the service’s GPS Wing at Los Angeles AFB, Calif., confirmed to the Daily Report. “The current GPS constellation has the most satellites and the greatest capability ever and the Air Force remains committed to ensuring a continued high level of GPS service and capabilities,” stated the spokesman. The new software includes functions for the upcoming series of GPS Block IIF satellites, the first of which is slated for launch into space in mid year. The software also has some robust security improvements. Last week, Gen. Norton Schwartz, Air Force Chief of Staff, said GPS remains integral to the service’s operations.
The Pentagon agency charged with building and operating U.S. spy satellites recently declassified some details about a Cold War-era surveillance program called Jumpseat—a revelation it says sheds light on the importance of satellite imaging technology and how it has advanced in the decades since.
