PerkinElmer Optoelectronics notes milestone in space with RAFS

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics celebrated the ten-year anniversary of in-orbit operation of its Rubidium Atomic Frequency Standard (Rafs) for global positioning systems (GPS) in space
satellite applications.

The Rafs technology was activated aboard the US Air Force GPS Block IIR satellite in August 1997, marking a decade of operation.

Vice president of PerkinElmer Rick Weiler stated that the company had produced more than 100 Rafs for space.

John Vaccaro, technical director for PerkinElmer, commented: "It is currently the highest performance, commercially available rubidium reference combining stability and low drift with the small size, low weight, and power advantages of a rubidium frequency standard."

Over half of all GPS satellites make use of Rafs systems provided by PerkinElmer, its current programs include the GPS Block IIF which includes cutting-edge technology to improve navigation systems for civil, commercial and military use.

Earlier this month it was reported that the company launched an assay development service.