The U.S. Space Force is preparing to launch its ninth third-generation Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite, the GPS 3 Space Vehicle 09 (SV09), aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The liftoff is scheduled for January 26, 2026, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, following a decision to switch the satellite’s launch vehicle from the United Launch Alliance (ULA) Vulcan rocket.
The GPS 3-9 mission will deploy the SV09 payload approximately 1.5 hours after launch. This satellite features advanced M-Code technology, which enhances its accuracy and resilience against jamming, a crucial capability for military operations. Two commands, the Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC) and Combat Forces Command (CFC), are overseeing the mission, ensuring the satellite’s readiness and operational success.
Launch Details and Weather Considerations
The Falcon 9 rocket is set to lift off at 23:42:23 Eastern Standard Time (EST) on January 26, 2026 (04:42:23 Coordinated Universal Time on January 27). The launch was postponed from January 25 due to concerns over weather conditions affecting both the liftoff and the recovery of the booster. The 45th Weather Squadron has predicted a 40 percent chance of favorable weather during the 15-minute launch window.
Meteorological reports indicate that strong winds could pose challenges during the launch. A significant winter storm is moving through the region, bringing colder air and increasing wind speeds. The launch weather officers noted that these winds are expected to approach and possibly exceed the constraints set for safe liftoff.
SpaceX will utilize the Falcon 9 first stage booster designated B1096, marking its fifth flight after previous missions, including NASA’s IMAP ride share and several Starlink launches. Approximately 8.5 minutes post-launch, the booster is scheduled to land on the drone ship ‘A Shortfall of Gravitas’ in the Atlantic Ocean, which would mark SpaceX’s 564th booster landing.
Strategic Launch Decisions and Implications
This mission represents the third instance of the Space Force shifting a satellite launch from a Vulcan rocket to a Falcon 9. Both ULA and SpaceX were awarded contracts for GPS missions under the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 2 program, with ULA receiving approximately $4.5 billion and SpaceX about $4 billion for their respective missions.
The initial change occurred with the launch of GPS 3 SV07 on a Falcon 9 in December 2024. This decision was made to expedite the deployment of critical GPS capabilities, as ULA’s Vulcan rocket was undergoing certification for national security payloads. Following the successful launch of SV07, the Space Force continued to adapt its launch manifest, opting for Falcon 9 to ensure timely delivery of essential services to military operations.
The need for flexibility in launch assignments was emphasized by U.S. Space Force Colonel Ryan Hiserote, SYD 80 Commander and NSSL program manager. He stated, “Our commitment to keeping things flexible means that we can pivot when necessary to changing circumstances.” This adaptability is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of the GPS constellation, which plays a vital role in a wide range of operations, from military to civilian applications.
The GPS 3 constellation is integral to various sectors, including aviation, communications, and scientific research. The satellite SV09 is named after Col. Ellison Onizuka, a U.S. Air Force test pilot and NASA astronaut who tragically lost his life in the Challenger disaster. This tribute highlights the significance of each satellite within the GPS program, honoring those who have contributed to the advancement of space exploration and technology.
As the launch approaches, both the Space Force and SpaceX remain focused on ensuring the success of the GPS 3-9 mission, which is pivotal for enhancing the capabilities of the U.S. military and its allies in the field.
