A new Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite has been launched into space by the United States according to agency reports from Cape Canaveral in Florida on Saturday (02).

An unmanned Atlas 5 rocket lifted off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station shortly before midnight on Friday.

The rocket carried a GPS 2F-7 spacecraft, which will join a constellation of other satellites already orbiting 17,700 kilometres above Earth. The GPS satellite will provide navigation for both military and civilian users.

The craft, when it becomes operational, will replace a 17-year-old satellite. The older satellite will be used as a back-up for the new one.

A United Launch Alliance Atlas V lifts off from Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on Friday.