New GPS satellite launched by US Air Force, first in series to replace all existing GPS satellites

The Global Positioning System IIF satellite, developed and built by Boeing, is the next generation of GPS space vehicle. (U.S. Air Force graphic)

The Global Positioning System IIF satellite, developed and built by Boeing, is the next generation of GPS space vehicle. (U.S. Air Force graphic)

The new satellites are for military as well as civilian use and are meant to replace the aging system of satellites that are currently in service. They offer a number of improvements, including a stronger signal that means an increased accuracy. How does 3-ft sound instead of 20-ft? The next launch is scheduled for November, 2010. [Source: Google Earth Blog. Image: U.S. Air Force]