GPS Block IIR Clocks in Space: Current Performance and Plans for the Future

J. Phelan, T. Dass, G. Freed, Dr. J. Rajan, J. D’Agostino, Dr. M. Epstein

Abstract:	ITT Industries developed GPS IIR satellite payloads have been on-orbit since July of 1997, providing outstanding signal-in-space performance. Much of the credit for this outstanding performance can be given to the GPS IIR Time Keeping System (TKS). A key component of the TKS system is Perkin Elmer’s Rubidium Atomic Frequency Standard (RAFS). We now have over 40 years of on-orbit experience with the GPS IIR TKS and RAFS. In this paper we will present the characteristics of the twelve on-orbit operating frequency standards, eight of which are in family and are the best performers in the GPS constellation, although four of which exhibit detectable features. This paper will provide insight into the unique characteristics of each on-orbit operational RAFS.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 37th Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting August 29 - 31, 2005 Vancouver, Canada
Pages:	19 - 25
Cite this article:	Phelan, J., Dass, T., Freed, G., Rajan, Dr. J., D’Agostino, J., Epstein, Dr. M., "GPS Block IIR Clocks in Space: Current Performance and Plans for the Future," Proceedings of the 37th Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting, Vancouver, Canada, August 2005, pp. 19-25.
Full Paper:	ION Members/Non-Members: 1 Download Credit Sign In