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List of GPS satellites
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List of GPS satellites
As of 24 April 2026[update], 83 Global Positioning System navigation satellites have been built: 31 are launched and operational, 1 is undergoing commissioning, 7 are in reserve or testing, 41 are retired, and 2 were lost during launch. One non-operational prototype satellite was never launched. The next launch is GPS IIIF SV11, with a targeted launch date of May 2027 on a Vulcan Centaur.
The constellation requires a minimum of 24 operational satellites, and allows for up to 32; typically, 31 are operational at any one time. A GPS receiver needs four satellites to work out its position in three dimensions.
SVNs are "space vehicle numbers" which are serial numbers assigned to each GPS satellite. PRNs are the "pseudo-random noise" sequences, or Gold codes, that each satellite transmits to differentiate itself from other satellites in the active constellation.
After being launched, GPS satellites enter a period of testing before their signals are set to "Healthy". During normal operations, certain signals may be set to "Unhealthy" to accommodate updates or testing. After decommissioning, most GPS satellites become on-orbit spares and may be recommissioned if needed. Permanently retired satellites are sent to a higher, less congested disposal orbit where their fuel is vented, batteries are intentionally depleted and communication is switched off.
Refer to GPS Constellation Status for the most up-to-date information.
Numbers in parentheses refer to non-operational satellites.
Once launched, GPS satellites do not change their plane assignment but slot assignments are somewhat arbitrary and are subject to change.
As of 28 April 2026[update], 32 of 32 PRNs are in use. Seven additional satellites are designated as on-orbit spares.
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List of GPS satellites
As of 24 April 2026[update], 83 Global Positioning System navigation satellites have been built: 31 are launched and operational, 1 is undergoing commissioning, 7 are in reserve or testing, 41 are retired, and 2 were lost during launch. One non-operational prototype satellite was never launched. The next launch is GPS IIIF SV11, with a targeted launch date of May 2027 on a Vulcan Centaur.
The constellation requires a minimum of 24 operational satellites, and allows for up to 32; typically, 31 are operational at any one time. A GPS receiver needs four satellites to work out its position in three dimensions.
SVNs are "space vehicle numbers" which are serial numbers assigned to each GPS satellite. PRNs are the "pseudo-random noise" sequences, or Gold codes, that each satellite transmits to differentiate itself from other satellites in the active constellation.
After being launched, GPS satellites enter a period of testing before their signals are set to "Healthy". During normal operations, certain signals may be set to "Unhealthy" to accommodate updates or testing. After decommissioning, most GPS satellites become on-orbit spares and may be recommissioned if needed. Permanently retired satellites are sent to a higher, less congested disposal orbit where their fuel is vented, batteries are intentionally depleted and communication is switched off.
Refer to GPS Constellation Status for the most up-to-date information.
Numbers in parentheses refer to non-operational satellites.
Once launched, GPS satellites do not change their plane assignment but slot assignments are somewhat arbitrary and are subject to change.
As of 28 April 2026[update], 32 of 32 PRNs are in use. Seven additional satellites are designated as on-orbit spares.
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