The methodology used and the results obtained in the pre-flight testing of the Blackjack GPS space receiver for the VCL and ICESat spacecraft is described. Both real and simulated signals were used to: (1) assess the accuracy and coverage of the navigation solutions, (2) assess the accuracy and stability of the 1-PPS timing signal, (3) assess the precision of the carrier phase observable, and (4) measure the cold-start time to first fix. In addition, an anechoic chamber was used to measure the antenna phase centers with mm-level precision. While the test results have generally been excellent and are discussed in this paper, emphasis is placed on describing the test methodology. It is anticipated that future geodetic satellite missions using GPS for navigation, timing, and POD can employ the same tests for pre-launch performance assessment of their particular receiver.
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