GPS message indexing issue identified

Release Number: 010315

3/23/2015 - PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- A GPS message indexing issue was recently identified that affects a limited number of active GPS IIF satellites, but does not degrade the accuracy of the GPS signal received by users around the globe.

The result is an occasional broadcast not in accordance with U.S. technical specifications.  The issue appears to be related to the ground software that builds and uploads messages transmitted by the GPS constellation during regular system operations, although the Air Force continues to investigate all possible causes.

Although the issue was brought to light in the last few days, a close examination of archived GPS message data reveals that the message indexing error has gone unnoticed since 2013.  Air Force Space Command has implemented a workaround to prevent further message indexing violations and is taking steps to permanently correct the error.

If you have any questions, contact Mr Andy Roake at Air Force Space Command Public Affairs by responding to this email or calling 719-491-9451.  During normal business hours, call the Air Force Space Command Public Affairs main line at 719-554-3731.