SVN 9 End-Of-Life Testing

Gregory E. Hatten

Abstract:	SVN 9 was a GPS Block I research and development satellite. When it was launched in June of 1984, questions regarding the future performance of atomic frequency standards in orbit remained to be answered. In March of 1994, after performing for twice its designed life span, SVN 9 was deactivated as a member of the operational GPS satellite constellation. During the next two months, US Air Force and Rockwell personnel performed various tests to determine just how well the atomic frequency standards had withstood ten years in the space environment. The results of these tests are encouraging. With a full constellation of Block II/IIA satellites on orbit, as well as the anticipated launch of the Block IIR satellites, results from the end of life testing will be helpful in assuring the continued success of the GPS program.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 26th Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting December 6 - 8, 1994 Hyatt Regency Reston Town Center Reston, Virginia
Pages:	404 - 415
Cite this article:	Hatten, Gregory E., "SVN 9 End-Of-Life Testing," Proceedings of the 26th Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting, Reston, Virginia, December 1994, pp. 404-415.
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