NASASpaceFlight.com Forum
Commercial and US Government Launch Vehicles => ULA - Delta, Atlas, Vulcan => Topic started by: Prober on 10/15/2015 10:25 pm
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SBIRS GEO-4
http://www.losangeles.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123461053 (http://www.losangeles.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123461053)
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That article says FY 2018, which means the payload could fly in 2017.
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That article says FY 2018, which means the payload could fly in 2017.
good catch Steven
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The interesting thing is, that this time an Atlas-V(411) instead of the Atlas-V(401) was ordered
SBIRS-GEO has either gained some additional mass or an different orbital injection profile will be used.
https://govtribe.com/project/ja-15-37-for-space-based-infrared-systems-sbirs-geo-flight-4-launch-services
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The interesting thing is, that this time an Atlas-V(411) instead of the Atlas-V(401) was ordered
SBIRS-GEO has either gained some additional mass or an different orbital injection profile will be used.
https://govtribe.com/project/ja-15-37-for-space-based-infrared-systems-sbirs-geo-flight-4-launch-services
It's possible the extra SRB is for increased performance to allow the Centaur to fully de-orbit into the ocean.
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Speaking of SBIRS, Aviation Week an excellent article on the program. Well worth the read:
http://aviationweek.com/space/unprecedented-peek-behind-sbirs-veil
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Thanks. That article says that SBIRS GEO-4 will launch in 2016, while SBIRS GEO-3 has been put in storage and will launch in 2017. That doesn't really make much sense to me and doesn't fit with the earlier information, so I think the 2016 date may be a typo.
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SBIRS GEO Flight 4 in Testing
Pictured here, the SBIRS GEO Flight 4 spacecraft in testing and storage at Lockheed Martin’s satellite manufacturing facility in Sunnyvale, California. Scheduled for launch in 2017, this will be the fourth satellite of the U.S. Air Force’s Space Based Infrared System.
More: www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs
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Thanks. That article says that SBIRS GEO-4 will launch in 2016, while SBIRS GEO-3 has been put in storage and will launch in 2017. That doesn't really make much sense to me and doesn't fit with the earlier information, so I think the 2016 date may be a typo.
Replying to an old comment here, but the Air Force announced that SBIRS GEO 3 and 4 would swap launch slots right around the time that article was published. The reason is that GEO-4 was ready in time for the GEO-3 launch slot, so this way they only need to transfer one satellite in and out of storage.
http://spacenews.com/sbirs-geo-4-satellite-will-leapfrog-geo-3-to-launchpad/
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SBIRS GEO-4
http://www.losangeles.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123461053
Looks like LAAFB has rearranged their website. I believe that press release is now here:
http://www.losangeles.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/734659/air-force-awards-nrol-47-sbirs-geo-4-launch-services-contract
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Updating thread title. SFN have indicated 27th of October and also list the configuration as a 411. Steven was right up thread
2017 looks like it will be a good year for solids on Atlas V
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Can anyone clarify (confirm) whether GEO-3 and GEO-4 swapped launch slots or not? The reason that I ask is that there is a patch available (ostensibly for GEO-3) that clearly reads GEO-IV in roman numerals. Was this patch released in error, or does it represent the actual payload? Forgive me for playing devils advocate...
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Can anyone clarify (confirm) whether GEO-3 and GEO-4 swapped launch slots or not? The reason that I ask is that there is a patch available (ostensibly for GEO-3) that clearly reads GEO-IV in roman numerals. Was this patch released in error, or does it represent the actual payload? Forgive me for playing devils advocate...
The patch is for this mission and thread, GEO-4. The patch is not for GEO-3. The ebay seller has the wrong name
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Now NET 2018:
Two satellite launches planned for this fall #AEHF4 and #SBIRSGEO4 are being delayed to 2018 due to separate issues spaceflightnow.com/2017/08/02/two…
https://twitter.com/spaceflightnow/status/892830508530503681
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[Spaceflight Now] Two U.S. military satellite launches delayed into next year (https://spaceflightnow.com/2017/08/02/two-u-s-military-satellite-launches-delayed-into-next-year/)
Separately and unrelated to AEHF, the SBIRS GEO Flight 4 launch is being delayed due to a “SBIRS program prioritization decision.”
It is tentatively rescheduled for launch on Jan. 18, 2018.
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https://www.facebook.com/SpaceandMissileSystemsCenter/photos/pcb.1710174195679954/1710173089013398/?type=3&theater
Los Angeles Air Force Base, Home of Space and Missile Systems Center added 30 new photos.
1 hr ·
SBIRS GEO Flight-4 arrives in Florida, Prepares for January launch
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. -- The U.S. Air Force's Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) program completed a major program milestone October 31, successfully delivering a Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite Flight-4 to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.
"The delivery, launch, and successful operation of GEO Flight-4 will mark the fulfillment of the original SBIRS baseline constellation and reaffirm our commitment to provide our country, warfighters, and senior leaders with timely, reliable, and accurate missile warning and infrared surveillance information." said Lt. Gen. John Thompson, SMC commander and Air Force program executive officer for space.
The delivery of GEO Flight-4 sets the path for final checkout of the space vehicle before launch. The satellite will be processed at the Payload Processing Facility located at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.
A combined government and contractor team is already executing the final ground activities including a Launch Base Confidence Test to verify satellite integrity after shipment, an intersegment test to verify communication compatibility from the satellite to the on-orbit operations center and the final battery reconditioning for launch. Following these activities, the satellite will be fueled and prepared for integration with the Atlas V rocket.
"Finalizing the preparations for the fourth launch of a SBIRS GEO satellite is a big deal" added Col. Dennis Bythewood, director of the Remote Sensing Systems Directorate. "The entire team understands how significant this is, and we're ready to make it happen." The GEO Flight-4 satellite is scheduled
to launch from Cape Canaveral in January 2018.
The satellite was transported from the Lockheed Martin satellite integration facility in Sunnyvale, California, via a C-5 Galaxy aircraft. The C-5 crew from the 22nd Airlift Squadron, Travis AFB, California, ensured the satellite was transported safely and according to the time sensitive schedule. The security support provided by the 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, was essential to the success of the mission.
"The safety of the SBIRS satellite was entrusted to the very best, and we are appreciative of the transport and security services provided by the entire government and contractor team," Lt. Gen. Thompson said.
The SBIRS constellation is designed to replace the legacy Defense Support Program satellite constellation. SBIRS will continue to provide significantly enhanced capabilities to support missile warning, missile defenses, battlespace awareness and technical intelligence missions. (U.S. Air Force photos/45th Space Wing, Patrick AFB, Fla.)
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SBIRS GEO Flight-4 arrives in Florida, prepares for January launch
By SPACE & MISSILE SYSTEMS CENTER (AFSPC) / Published November 02, 2017
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. --
The U.S. Air Force’s Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) program completed a major program milestone on Oct. 31, 2017, successfully delivering a Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite Flight-4 to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.
“The delivery, launch, and successful operation of GEO Flight-4 will mark the fulfillment of the original SBIRS baseline constellation and reaffirm our commitment to provide our country, warfighters, and senior leaders with timely, reliable, and accurate missile warning and infrared surveillance information,” said Lt. Gen. John Thompson, SMC commander and Air Force program executive officer for space.
The delivery of GEO Flight-4 sets the path for final checkout of the space vehicle before launch. The satellite will be processed at the Payload Processing Facility located at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.
A combined government and contractor team is already executing the final ground activities including a Launch Base Confidence Test to verify satellite integrity after shipment, an intersegment test to verify communication compatibility from the satellite to the on-orbit operations center and the final battery reconditioning for launch. Following these activities, the satellite will be fueled and prepared for integration with the Atlas V rocket.
“Finalizing the preparations for the fourth launch of a SBIRS GEO satellite is a big deal,” added Col. Dennis Bythewood, director of the Remote Sensing Systems Directorate. “The entire team understands how significant this is, and we’re ready to make it happen,” The GEO Flight-4 satellite is scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, in January 2018.
The satellite was transported from the Lockheed Martin satellite integration facility in Sunnyvale, California, via a C-5 Galaxy aircraft. The C-5 crew from the 22nd Airlift Squadron, Travis AFB, California, ensured the satellite was transported safely and according to the time sensitive schedule. The security support provided by the 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, was essential to the success of the mission.
“The safety of the SBIRS satellite was entrusted to the very best, and we are appreciative of the transport and security services provided by the entire government and contractor team,” Lt. Gen. Thompson said.
The SBIRS constellation is designed to replace the legacy Defense Support Program satellite constellation. SBIRS will continue to provide significantly enhanced capabilities to support missile warning, missile defenses, battlespace awareness and technical intelligence missions.
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SBIRS GEO Flight 4 Delivery Ready for January Launch
Space and Missile Systems Center Los Angeles AFB
Published on Nov 17, 2017
The U.S. Air Force’s Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) program completed a major milestone successfully delivering the Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite Flight 4 to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.
https://youtu.be/b7DDOA2c1BY?t=001
https://youtu.be/b7DDOA2c1BY
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I happen to be in florida on the 18th with nothing better to do... Does anyone have launch window information on this flight?
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I happen to be in florida on the 18th with nothing better to do... Does anyone have launch window information on this flight?
If one checks the US Launch Schedule (http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=8184.0) thread, the most recent posting shows:
<snip>
2018
NET January 19 - SBIRS-GEO 4 - Atlas V 411 (AV-076) - Canaveral SLC-41 - 00:40-01:20
Changes on December 5th
...which equals 7:40-8:20 pm January 18 Eastern Standard Time.
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Los Angeles Air Force Base, Home of Space and Missile Systems Center 2 hrs · Facebook
SBIRS GEO Flight-4 satellite fueling operations authorized;
Prepares for encapsulation
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. -- Preparations for the January 2018 launch of the fourth Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite, commonly called GEO Flight-4, are underway at Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Having verified satellite integrity after successful delivery from Sunnyvale, California to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, the SBIRS team was approved to start fueling operations for GEO Flight-4.
Proper fueling is crucial to the mission team's efforts to use GEO Flight-4's satellite propulsion system to guide the satellite to its geosynchronous orbit following separation from a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket. The GEO Flight-4 space vehicle will be loaded with sufficient fuel to reach its intended orbit and to maintain its proper orbit over its design life of twelve years.
The SBIRS constellation is designed to replace the legacy Defense Support Program satellite constellation. SBIRS will continue to provide significantly enhanced capabilities to support missile warning, missile defense, battlespace awareness and technical intelligence missions.
Media representatives can submit questions for response regarding this topic by sending an email to [email protected].
Get the latest Los Angeles Air Force Base News at www.losanqeles.af mil,
on Facebook @SpaceandMissileSystemsCenter,
and on Twitter @AF_SMC, #SpaceStartsHere, #GE03_Flight4, #SMC_STEM
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SBIRS GEO Flight 4
SBIRS GEO Flight 4, the next Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite to join the U.S. Air Force’s Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) during assembly and test at Lockheed Martin’s satellite manufacturing facility in Sunnyvale, California
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Rocket and satellite preps on track for next Atlas 5 launch (https://spaceflightnow.com/2017/12/29/rocket-and-satellite-preps-on-track-for-next-atlas-5-launch/), December 29
The Atlas 5’s first stage was stacked on top of a mobile platform inside the Vertical Integration Facility at Cape Canaveral’s Complex 41 launch pad early last week. It was to be followed by the hoisting of the Atlas 5’s Centaur upper stage and a single strap-on solid rocket booster.
This paragraph is written in past tense. Is the CCB + Centaur + single booster integrated as of Dec. 29?
Re: change of SBIRS-GEO launches from 401 to 411 launch configuration:
The interesting thing is, that this time an Atlas-V(411) instead of the Atlas-V(401) was ordered
SBIRS-GEO has either gained some additional mass or an different orbital injection profile will be used.
https://govtribe.com/project/ja-15-37-for-space-based-infrared-systems-sbirs-geo-flight-4-launch-services
It's possible the extra SRB is for increased performance to allow the Centaur to fully de-orbit into the ocean.
The change will allow the Centaur upper stage to make a controlled de-orbit and re-entry after it releases the SBIRS GEO Flight 4 satellite, a measure to prevent the flight from adding to space debris in Earth orbit.
So, we should see NOTAMs/NOTMARs for the Centaur disposal as the launch date approaches.
Kudos to c3i's insight!
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Not addressed in the article:
Will there be a WDR? (I remember that NSF experts have commented that WDRs are no longer performed as Standard Operating Procedure for Cape launches of the 401 variety. Does that extend to all 4x1 configurations? I assume also that if the customer chooses to pay for a WDR, that supersedes ULA SOP.)
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zubenelgenubi, ULA hardly does Wet Dress Rehearsals for Atlas V. The only times I recall WDRs being done for Atlas V are before specific NASA payloads are launched.
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Interesting discussion of SBIR HEO/GEO coverage with graphs of sensor visibility...
https://sattrackcam.blogspot.com/2017/12/where-to-hide-your-nuclear-missile.html
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Los Angeles Air Force Base, Home of Space and Missile Systems Center Montgomery, AL
SBIRS GEO Flight-4 encapsulation completed
LOS ANGELES AIR FORCE BASE, El Segundo, Calif. -- The Air Force's Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit Flight-4 (SBIRS GEO-4) satellite completed encapsulation today at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.
This encapsulation event is a significant milestone in GEO Flight-4's launch process as it marks the satellite's completion of all major testing milestones prior to launch.
On Thursday, Jan. 11, GEO Flight-4 will make the journey to Space Launch Complex-41, where it will be mated with its Atlas V-411 rocket. It is scheduled for launch on Jan. 18, 2018, at 7:52 p.m., Eastern (4:52 p.m. Pacific).
The satellite will join three others launched since 2011 to complete the deployment of the initial SBIRS fleet, which provides early warning of missile launches heading for the United States and its allies, including those potentially carrying nuclear weapons.
The Space and Missile Systems Center, located at Los Angeles Air Force Base in El Segundo, California, is the U.S. Air Force's center for acquiring and developing military space systems. Its portfolio includes GPS, military satellite communications, defense meteorological satellites, space launch and range systems, satellite control networks, space-based infrared systems and space situational awareness capabilities.
Media representatives can submit questions for response regarding this topic by sending an email to [email protected]
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Get the latest Los Angeles Air Force Base News at www.losanqeles.af mil, on Facebook @SpaceandMissileSystemsCenter, and on Twitter @AF_SMC
The Air Force's Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit Flight-4 (SBIRS GEO-4) satellite stands ready for encapsulation Jan. 9, 2018 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.
Technicians prepare for the encapsulation of the Air Force's Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit Flight-4 (SBIRS GEO-4) satellite at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, Jan. 9, 2018.
Technicians make last-minute preparations for the encapsulation of the Air Force's Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit Flight-4 (SBIRS GEO-4) satellite at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, Jan. 9, 2018.
Technicians point out details on the Air Force's Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit Flight-4 (SBIRS GEO-4) satellite prior to its final encapsulation at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, Jan. 9, 2018.
With one half of a payload fairing in place, technicians move the remaining half of the protective shroud to completely encapsulate the Air Force's Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit Flight-4 (SBIRS GEO-4) satellite at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, Jan. 9, 2018.
A unique, low angle image shows the Air Force's Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit Flight-4 (SBIRS GEO-4) satellite just after its final encapsulation at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, Jan. 9, 2018.
An artist's concept of the Air Force's Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit Flight-4 (SBIRS GEO-4) satellite on station, providing early warning of missile launches heading for the United States and its allies, including those potentially carrying nuclear weapons. (Courtesy graphic)
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https://youtu.be/b7DDOA2c1BY (https://youtu.be/b7DDOA2c1BY)
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Hello all,
Kennedy just put launch tickets on-sale for the 2018-01-18 launch. LC-39 Observation Gantry tickets are $49 (in addition to getting into KSC) and Saturn-V Center tix are $20 (in addition to park fees).
If you have the chance definitely go for the LC-39 viewing. LC-39 to SLC 41 is a mere 2.3 miles. That is the closest the public is allowed to a launch anywhere in the US.
You can purchase online here https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/launches-and-events/events-calendar/2018/january/rocket-launch-ula-atlas-v-sbirs-geo-4. (https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/launches-and-events/events-calendar/2018/january/rocket-launch-ula-atlas-v-sbirs-geo-4.)
c
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News Release Issued: Jan 11, 2018 (8:07am EST)
Sealed Up, Ready to Go: U.S. Air Force's SBIRS GEO Flight-4 Missile Warning Satellite Encapsulated for Launch
Current SBIRS' constellation continues to deliver outstanding infrared surveillance performance
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla., Jan. 11, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Air Force's fourth Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite built by Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) was encapsulated on Jan. 9. The SBIRS GEO Flight-4 satellite is now ready for its planned Jan. 18 launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket.
During encapsulation, SBIRS GEO Flight-4 was sealed in its launch fairing, an aerodynamic, nose-cone shell that protects the satellite during launch. In the coming days, the fairing with the satellite enclosed will be mounted on top of the Atlas V rocket as launch preparations continue.
SBIRS GEO Flight-4 is the latest satellite to join the Air Force's orbiting network of satellites equipped with powerful scanning and staring infrared surveillance sensors. The sensors collect data for use by the U.S. military to detect missile launches, support ballistic missile defense, expand technical intelligence gathering and bolster situational awareness on the battlefield.
Back on the ground, a sophisticated new SBIRS ground control system serves as the nerve center for the entire SBIRS satellite constellation and receives large amounts of data from the satellites' powerful sensors. The SBIRS control system and its operators convert this data into actionable reports for defense, intelligence and civil applications.
"SBIRS provides our military with timely, reliable and accurate missile warning and infrared surveillance information," said Tom McCormick, vice president of Lockheed Martin's Overhead Persistent Infrared systems mission area. "We look forward to adding GEO Flight-4's capabilities to the first line of defense in our nation's missile defense strategy."
Lockheed Martin manufactured the SBIRS GEO Flight-4 satellite at its Sunnyvale, California, facility. The satellite was delivered to Florida on Oct. 31, 2017.
Building on SBIRS
The Air Force's SBIRS program continues to grow resilient, persistent, space-based infrared surveillance capabilities.
The planned launch of SBIRS GEO Flight-4 comes just 12 months after the launch of SBIRS GEO Flight-3, which in March 2017 sent its first images back down to Earth in a milestone known as "first light." These two satellites join SBIRS' GEO-1 and GEO-2, which received Air Force Space Command Operational Acceptance in 2013, and have performance that matches, and in some cases exceeds, requirements.
The next SBIRS satellites, GEO-5 and GEO-6, will bring increased resiliency, production efficiency and the ability to add new advanced sensor suites to the constellation using Lockheed Martin's modernized LM 2100 satellite bus. In September, a system Critical Design Review for the modernized design for GEO 5 and 6 was conducted with the Air Force, authorizing the satellites to enter into the manufacturing and integration phase.
At the center of SBIRS is its ground control system, which receives and processes a vast amount of satellite data. In late 2016, the Air Force operationally accepted "SBIRS Block 10," a new control system developed by Lockheed Martin, which includes enhancements like faster data collection times, improved threat detections, and improved target tracking and infrared information to enable troops to see dimmer targets faster.
SBIRS Block 10 also provides the Air Force with greater efficiency by consolidated ground control for the legacy Defense Support Program, as well as SBIRS satellites and payloads in GEO and Highly Elliptical Orbits.
For additional SBIRS information, photos and video visit: www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs.
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Does anyone have the patch artwork seen on the PLF? (I saw it also on the banner in the delivery imagery.)
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AtlasV to Launch SBIRS GEO Flight 4 for the U.S. Air Force
Atlas V SBIRS GEO Flight 4 Mission Overview
•Atlas V SBIRS GEO Flight 4 Mission ArtworkRocket: Atlas V 411
•Mission: Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) GEO Flight 4
•Launch Date: Thursday, Jan. 18, 2018
•Launch Time: The 40-minute launch window opens at 7:52 p.m. EST
•Live Broadcast: Tune in beginning at 7:32 p.m. EST
•Launch Location: Space Launch Complex 41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
Mission Description: SBIRS, considered one of the nation's highest priority space programs, is designed to provide global, persistent, infrared surveillance capabilities to meet 21st century demands in four national security mission areas: missile warning, missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness. The SBIRS team is led by the Remote Sensing Systems Directorate at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center.
Launch Notes: ULA also launched the first three SBIRS GEO missions. SBIRS GEO Flight 4 mission will mark ULA’s 125th mission overall since the company was founded in 2006. It’s also the 75th Atlas V launch since the rocket’s inaugural flight in 2002.
Launch Updates: To keep up to speed with updates to the launch countdown, dial the ULA launch hotline at 1-877-852-4321 or join the conversation at www.facebook.com/ulalaunch, twitter.com/ulalaunch and instagram.com/ulalaunch; hashtags #AtlasV #SBIRS.
Go Atlas! Go Centaur! Go SBIRS GEO Flight 4!
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Does anyone have the patch artwork seen on the PLF? (I saw it also on the banner in the delivery imagery.)
Can't find a higher-res version at the moment...
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Does anyone have the patch artwork seen on the PLF? (I saw it also on the banner in the delivery imagery.)
Can't find a higher-res version at the moment...
Coincidence between world view/coverage area on the patch and current SBIRs coverage graphic? Me thinks not...
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Is the eagle carrying a rocket in its talons?
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Is the eagle carrying a rocket in its talons?
Yes it is.
That’s not an eagle I’d want to meet that’s for certain!
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Here's the press kit.
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Looking good for Thursday’s #AtlasV launch from the Cape. Pgo of 80%, cumulus clouds. #SBIRS
https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/952890292574699521 (https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/952890292574699521)
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Here's the forecast Tory referred to, 80% GO:
Launch day overall probability of violating weather constraints: 20%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Clouds
24-hour delay overall probability of violating weather constraints: 20%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Clouds
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Always enjoy watching the goofy-looking 411s blast off
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Is the eagle carrying a rocket in its talons?
Yes it is.
That’s not an eagle I’d want to meet that’s for certain!
Looks like a giant Kryptonian eagle: able to fly in outer space, catch and grip missiles in its talons, and destroy missiles in flight with heat vision.
Can we assume it is a sentient being from Krypton, and not "merely" trained to perform martial feats?
What a great companion for the son of Jor-El!
DC Comics: Please make it so! With classic narration by the great Bill Woodson! (I see he died last year at the age of 99, so I guess we don't get that.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RnxN-ZT9EGE
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Hoping this launches on time. I'm in Florida for a few days and I have tickets to watch from the LC-39 observation gantry! This will be my first launch in person! I will post pictures after. Hoping to get some snaps of FH if it is on the pad
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Mission overview document from ULA website
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Launch forecast issued today is still 80% GO:
Launch day overall probability of violating weather constraints: 20%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Clouds
24-hour delay overall probability of violating weather constraints: 20%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Clouds
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Atlas V SBIRS GEO Flight 4 Mission Profile
United Launch Alliance
Published on Jan 16, 2018
An Atlas V 411 rocket will launch the SBIRS GEO Flight 4 mission for the U.S. Air Force from Cape Canaveral's Space Launch Complex-41. SBIRS, considered one of the nation's highest priority space programs, is designed to provide global, persistent, infrared surveillance capabilities to meet 21st-century demands in four national security mission areas: missile warning, missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness.
https://youtu.be/WUaGSFND0no?t=001
https://youtu.be/WUaGSFND0no
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Quick error of the mission profile video:
Even though the launch footage correctly depicts a night launch, the model shown is wrong since the 411 config lifts off faster and leaves a smoke trail thanks to the AJ-60A SRB.
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The interesting thing is, that this time an Atlas-V(411) instead of the Atlas-V(401) was ordered
SBIRS-GEO has either gained some additional mass or an different orbital injection profile will be used.
https://govtribe.com/project/ja-15-37-for-space-based-infrared-systems-sbirs-geo-flight-4-launch-services (https://govtribe.com/project/ja-15-37-for-space-based-infrared-systems-sbirs-geo-flight-4-launch-services)
It's possible the extra SRB is for increased performance to allow the Centaur to fully de-orbit into the ocean.
Looks like you were right, as per the mission booklet and the NOTAMs, the Centaur upper stage will be de-orbited on this mission.
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Tory's confirmation of the 411 vs 401 question:
For prior missions, this customer preferred to place the expended Centaur in the designated disposal orbit (junkyard, from which stages slowly decay into reentry). On this flight, the SRB provides enough energy to allow Centaur to be immediately deorbited.
https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/953606591244390400
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Airspace closure and launch hazard areas
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They're adding the cost/complexity of an SRB just to be able to de-orbit the upper stage faster? What is the reason for that? Is this new policy, to be able to target specific disposal areas?
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The U.S. Air Force is ready to launch the 4th SBIRS Geosynchronous Earth Orbit satellite on 18 January 2018 #spacestartshere
https://twitter.com/AF_SMC/status/953654763371024384
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Launch forecast now improved to 90% GO.
(Thanks to https://twitter.com/NASA_Nerd/status/953655577103814656 (https://twitter.com/NASA_Nerd/status/953655577103814656), updated forecast is not yet on the 45th webpage)
Edit to add:
45th have now uploaded to web, forecast now attached
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United Launch Alliance’s Atlas 5 rocket is on the move toward Cape Canaveral’s Complex 41 launch pad. The rocket is rolling out ahead of launch with a US Air Force satellite Thursday night. https://spaceflightnow.com/2018/01/17/av-076-mission-status-center/ …
https://twitter.com/SpaceflightNow/status/953680952626204674
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They're adding the cost/complexity of an SRB just to be able to de-orbit the upper stage faster? What is the reason for that? Is this new policy, to be able to target specific disposal areas?
I’d turn the question around and ask what is wrong with taking the responsible course of action, especially if anyone knows about the growing clutter in orbit it’s the USAF.
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They're adding the cost/complexity of an SRB just to be able to de-orbit the upper stage faster? What is the reason for that? Is this new policy, to be able to target specific disposal areas?
I’d turn the question around and ask what is wrong with taking the responsible course of action, especially if anyone knows about the growing clutter in orbit it’s the USAF.
The issue is less about junk in orbit (GTO orbits generally decay in a few months or years) and more about controlling where any debris will fall after surviving reentry.
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The Atlas 5 rocket has arrived at its launch pad at Cape Canaveral ahead of liftoff Thursday evening with a US Air Force missile-warning satellite. There is a 90% chance of favorable weather for launch. spaceflightnow.com/2018/01/17/av-…
https://twitter.com/stephenclark1/status/953691359919165442
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WESTERN NORTH ATLANTIC.
FLORIDA.
1. HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS 190052Z TO 190207Z JAN,
ALTERNATE 200048Z TO 200203Z JAN
IN AREAS BOUND BY:
A. 28-38N 080-39W, 28-40N 080-33W,
28-40N 080-11W, 28-35N 079-40W,
28-30N 079-11W, 28-23N 079-13W,
28-32N 080-35W.
B. 24-03N 056-45W, 24-13N 056-35W,
23-33N 054-15W, 23-22N 054-25W.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 200303Z JAN 18.//
Authority: EASTERN RANGE 061534Z JAN 18.
Date: 150338Z JAN 18
Cancel: 20030300 Jan 18
Centaur re-entry area:
NORTH PACIFIC.
DNC 12, DNC 13.
1. HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS 191014Z TO 191057Z JAN,
ALTERNATE 201010Z TO 201053Z JAN
IN AREA BOUND BY
13-53N 175-27E, 14-20N 174-34W,
12-26N 174-33W, 11-59N 175-34E.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 201153Z JAN 18.//
Authority: EASTERN RANGE 091816Z JAN 18.
Date: 150403Z JAN 18
Cancel: 20115300 Jan 18
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Rollout video and photos:
GEO Flight-4 has rolled out to the launch pad today at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The…https://www.instagram.com/p/BeD7aymHdYo/
https://twitter.com/af_smc/status/953702253533253632
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Rollout photos from ULA
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Beautiful evening at @ulalaunch Space Launch Complex 41, where an Atlas V 411 rocket is poised to launch the @usairforce SBIRS GEO-4 satellite tomorrow night at 7:52pm. Photo: @johnkrausphotos / @AmericaSpace.
https://twitter.com/johnkrausphotos/status/953791900221308929
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Another launch patch
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Moved for live coverage.
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Overnight photos from ULA
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Sorry, can't resist two more:
Couple views from camera setups with the @ulalaunch #AtlasV, set to deliver the fourth critical #SBIRS missile defense satellite to orbit tonight for the US Air Force. STORY - http://www.americaspace.com/2018/01/18/atlas-v-to-launch-high-priority-missile-defense-satellite-tonight-from-florida …
https://twitter.com/KillianPhoto/status/953985687812034561 (https://twitter.com/KillianPhoto/status/953985687812034561)
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William Graham's feature article!
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2018/01/atlas-v-sbirs-geo-4-launch-cape-canaveral/
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Latest weather briefing shows a 90% chance of favorable weather for #AtlasV #SBIRS GEO Flight 4 this evening!
https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/954073741855617024
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Webcast:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRSQ5Sd5vMQ
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Tory's confirmation of the 411 vs 401 question:
For prior missions, this customer preferred to place the expended Centaur in the designated disposal orbit (junkyard, from which stages slowly decay into reentry). On this flight, the SRB provides enough energy to allow Centaur to be immediately deorbited.
https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/953606591244390400
This is a bit surprising because on previous missions - e..g SBIRS GEO-3 - NOTAMs were taken to imply that
an immediate Centaur deorbit was done. Maybe those NOTAMs were not actually related to the missions in question.
Shows the danger of overconfident interpretation!
-
The ULA team has given the go to begin cryogenic fueling! On track for #AtlasV #SBIRS GEO Flight 4 launch at 7:52pmEST; broadcast begins at 7:32pmEST. http://bit.ly/av_sbirsgeo4
https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/954124231268237312 (https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/954124231268237312)
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Tory's confirmation of the 411 vs 401 question:
For prior missions, this customer preferred to place the expended Centaur in the designated disposal orbit (junkyard, from which stages slowly decay into reentry). On this flight, the SRB provides enough energy to allow Centaur to be immediately deorbited.
https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/953606591244390400
What's the deal with so many Centuar's going to GTO ending up with 2-9000km perigee's vs F9's sub mostly sub 350km perigee's? Comparatively low thrust of the RL-10? Inclination change burns?
-
https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/954133288775434241
Centaur LO2 at 98%. All looks good. #SBIRS
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uh oh. hold due to valve issue :(
https://twitter.com/ChrisG_NSF/status/954138580401709059
-
and now per SFN, launch will not be at the start of the window-
https://twitter.com/SpaceflightNow/status/954138076237967360
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Tory's confirmation of the 411 vs 401 question:
For prior missions, this customer preferred to place the expended Centaur in the designated disposal orbit (junkyard, from which stages slowly decay into reentry). On this flight, the SRB provides enough energy to allow Centaur to be immediately deorbited.
https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/953606591244390400
What's the deal with so many Centuar's going to GTO ending up with 2-9000km perigee's vs F9's sub mostly sub 350km perigee's? Comparatively low thrust of the RL-10? Inclination change burns?
Atlas has a number of mission profiles that reduce ∆V to GSO and leave the spacecraft in a high-perigee orbit.
For a supersynchronous transfer, excess performance goes to apogee, then inclination, and then perigee once inclination reaches around 20°.
There are two different long-coast profiles that use an elliptical parking orbit, putting the argument of perigee at 0° or 180°.
The 3-burn profile leaves a high perigee, since the third burn is an apogee burn.
Source: Atlas V Users Guide
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The #AtlasV #SBIRS GEO 4 launch is scrubbed for the day.
https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/954143308284092416 (https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/954143308284092416)
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Webcast is showing a 24 hour scrub. The 11:00 am is my local time.
-
pending the fixed valve, another attempt will be made tommorrow-
https://twitter.com/ExploreSpaceKSC/status/954146720463568896
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Scrub. LOX fill and drain valve acting up. Need to go out to the pad to check it out
https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/954146485750280193 (https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/954146485750280193)
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(Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., Jan. 18, 2018)– The launch of a United Launch Alliance Atlas V carrying the SBIRS GEO Flight 4 mission was scrubbed today due to a ground issue associated with the booster liquid oxygen system.
The launch is planned for Friday, Jan. 19, from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The forecast shows a 90 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for launch. The launch time is 7:48 p.m. ET.
-
If this bird is not able to get off the ground tomorrow how will a possible government shutdown Friday night affect launch operations at the Cape? Does this get delayed indefinitely?
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If this bird is not able to get off the ground tomorrow how will a possible government shutdown Friday night affect launch operations at the Cape? Does this get delayed indefinitely?
The looming government shutdown will not affect high priority national security payloads. They will get a waiver from the shutdown for this launch like previous national security launches.
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Updated YouTube Link.
Atlas V SBIRS GEO Flight 4 Broadcast (Jan. 19)
United Launch Alliance
Scheduled for Jan 19, 2018
Watch as ULA's Atlas V rocket launches the Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) GEO Flight 4 for the U.S. Air Force.
https://youtu.be/eV03W0mnxkI?t=001
https://youtu.be/eV03W0mnxkI
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ULA are having no luck with groundside valves of late, are they?
-
Updated forecast for today's attempt. Sill 90% GO, but weather is worse tomorrow if there's another delay:
Launch day overall probability of violating weather constraints: 10%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Clouds
24-hour delay overall probability of violating weather constraints: 30%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Clouds, Thick Clouds
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ULA are having no luck with groundside valves of late, are they?
I agree. First the Delta IV last week, now Atlas V. When will the GSE valves behave the first time?
-
ULA are having no luck with groundside valves of late, are they?
I agree. First the Delta IV last week, now Atlas V. When will the GSE valves behave the first time?
The GSE glitches have not been limited to valves... seems that latest flows are much more troublesome than a few years back (where they seemed to go at opening of launch window regularly).
-
ULA are having no luck with groundside valves of late, are they?
I agree. First the Delta IV last week, now Atlas V. When will the GSE valves behave the first time?
The GSE glitches have not been limited to valves... seems that latest flows are much more troublesome than a few years back (where they seemed to go at opening of launch window regularly).
traveling launch team with decreased team size and possible decreased maintenance team could propagate an increase of such issues compared to the past.
-
ULA are having no luck with groundside valves of late, are they?
I agree. First the Delta IV last week, now Atlas V. When will the GSE valves behave the first time?
The GSE glitches have not been limited to valves... seems that latest flows are much more troublesome than a few years back (where they seemed to go at opening of launch window regularly).
traveling launch team with decreased team size and possible decreased maintenance team could propagate an increase of such issues compared to the past.
Total speculation on my part, but drawing from life-experience...ULA may have traveled over an inflection point on the graph plot of efficiency vs. effectiveness.
-
ULA are having no luck with groundside valves of late, are they?
I agree. First the Delta IV last week, now Atlas V. When will the GSE valves behave the first time?
The GSE glitches have not been limited to valves... seems that latest flows are much more troublesome than a few years back (where they seemed to go at opening of launch window regularly).
traveling launch team with decreased team size and possible decreased maintenance team could propagate an increase of such issues compared to the past.
Total speculation on my part, but drawing from life-experience...ULA may have traveled over an inflection point on the graph plot of efficiency vs. effectiveness.
I forgot to factor in the effects of a gradually increasing launch rate.
-
ULA says it’s on track for second try tonight to launch Atlas V, SBIRS GEO-4. Window 7:48-8:28pm EST.
https://twitter.com/flatoday_jdean/status/954400756576251904
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ULA are having no luck with groundside valves of late, are they?
I agree. First the Delta IV last week, now Atlas V. When will the GSE valves behave the first time?
The GSE glitches have not been limited to valves... seems that latest flows are much more troublesome than a few years back (where they seemed to go at opening of launch window regularly).
traveling launch team with decreased team size and possible decreased maintenance team could propagate an increase of such issues compared to the past.
Total speculation on my part, but drawing from life-experience...ULA may have traveled over an inflection point on the graph plot of efficiency vs. effectiveness.
I forgot to factor in the effects of a gradually increasing launch rate.
Or just cold weather
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The team is on console and countdown has begun to #AtlasV #SBIRS GEO Flight 4 launch tonight. The 40-minute launch window opens at 7:48pmEST, and the live broadcast begins at 7:28pmEST. bit.ly/av_sbirsgeo4
https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/954411264691920896
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<snip>
Or just cold weather
I guess the answer could come as the next few ULA launches occur and winter turns to spring...
Does a trend develop, or do we see a continuance of the efficient and effective launch campaigns that us in the peanut gallery have come to expect in the current decade?
ULA launch success statistics are the envy of the planet's launch providers...
-
Watching the Atlas V & Delta IV launches get scrubbed because GSE valves related issues made me think it might be associated with the slower launch cadence for ULA compared to SpaceX?
A longer time between launches means more GSE equipment is sitting idle enduring weather and other issues that might show up in the several months wait. Heck might even be because insects, birds build nests inside the pipes e.t.c. that caused these issues that never have the same chance of appearing when you launch a rocket every 14 days from the same pad.
Just my thoughts and they are probably wrong. But for some reason SpaceX does not seem to suffer as many GSE issues scrubbing launch attempts.
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#AtlasV with #SBIRS GEO Flight 4 before we cleared the launch pad at Space Launch Complex-41. Tonight’s 40-minute launch window opens at 7:48pmEST. http://bit.ly/av_sbirsgeo4
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DT73uGGWkAII1tV.jpg
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The #AtlasV #SBIRS GEO Flight 4 countdown has just entered a planned 15-minute hold as the team prepares for cryogenic fueling operations. This is the first of 2 planned holds in today's countdown.
https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/954478292307980289
The ULA team has given the go to begin cryogenic fueling operations and resume the countdown as we proceed toward #AtlasV #SBIRS GEO Flight 4 launch! Tonight's launch window opens at 7:48 p.m. EST.
https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/954481683084054529
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Centaur LOX tanking has begun. #SBIRS
https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/954485090318368768
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#AtlasV #SBIRS sunset at Cape Canaveral.
https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/954496815793082368
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It is a much warmer night here at the pad 39 viewing gantry. Hoping for a good launch tonight!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180119/fd079ad74c0e8d94f0c514f74b234345.jpg)
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Florida Today livestream!
https://livestream.com/accounts/20522137/events/8019395
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L-40 minutes. Looks like venting coming from the middle of the rocket.
-
L-30 minutes. We can see the crew access tower to the left of the vehicle.
-
ULA colour check.
-
ULA colour check.
NTSC Test Pattern to be exact.
-
L-25 minutes. To the left and right we see the four lightning towers.
-
Copyright notice.
L-20 minutes.
-
Here we go...
-
Now working any issues.
-
T-4 minutes and holding.
-
Perfect weather!
-
Showing mission profile.
-
L-15 minutes.
-
Vehicle configuration.
-
Launch preparations.
-
Talking about SBIRS-GEO and logo.
-
L-10 minutes. Launch dedication.
-
Dedication.
-
L-9 minutes. SRB ignition enabled.
-
L-8 minutes.
-
L-7 minutes. Performing poll.
-
L-6 minutes. Proceeding with the count.
-
L-5 minutes.
-
-
T-4 minutes and counting.
-
T-3 minutes. LO2 topping.
-
T-2 minutes. Vehicle internal.
-
T-1 minute. Range green.
-
Liftoff!
-
LAUNCH!
-
T+1 minute.
-
Booster burnout.
T+2 minutes.
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Staging.
-
Booster separation.
T+3 minutes.
-
T+4 minutes.
MECO.
-
Staging.
-
Booster separation.
Fairing separation.
T+5 minutes.
-
T+6 minutes. Showing interview.
-
Either these people are getting younger, or I'm getting older. I'll go with the latter.
-
T+7 minutes.
-
T+8 minutes. First launch she's ever been a part of.
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T+9 minutes. Early data in about two months.
-
T+11 minutes.
-
T+12 minutes. About two minutes to go.
-
T+13 minutes.
-
MECO1.
-
T+15 minutes. In 10 minute coast.
-
Interview with Boeing commercial crew mission manager.
-
Upcoming events.
00:24:16.8 Centaur Second Main Engine Start (MES-2)
00:29:18.6 Centaur Second Main Engine Cutoff (MECO-2)
00:42:31.6 SBIRS GEO Flight 4 Separation
01:14:17.2 Centaur Third Main Engine Start (MES-3)
01:14:27.2 Centaur Third Main Engine Cutoff (MECO-3)
01:19:04.2 Start Blowdown
01:55:44.2 End of Mission
09:24:57.1 Ocean Impact
-
T+20 minutes. Four minutes 17 second to second start.
-
Back to live telemetry.
-
One minute to MES2.
-
MES2.
-
+1 minute.
-
+2 minutes.
-
+3 minutes.
-
+4 minutes. 1 minute to MECO2.
-
MECO2!
-
Second burn complete.
-
T+30 minutes 10 seconds. Separation in about 12.5 minutes.
-
Showing photos of US military personnel.
-
T+35 minutes.
-
Back to live telemetry.
-
T+40 minutes. 2.5 minutes to separation.
-
One minute to separation.
-
S/C Sep!
-
Spacecraft separation!
-
Congratulations to ULA and USAF for the successful launch!
-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxKqjHWLn6A
Congratulations to all involved!
-
End of webcast.
-
Congratulations to ULA and USAF. That was a very nice launch and webcast.
I was a bit surprised that the webcast didn't end with payload fairing separation.
-
William's article updated:
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2018/01/atlas-v-sbirs-geo-4-launch-cape-canaveral/
Thanks to Steven and all for the coverage as always!
-
The Capt. medals switched from the right side of her uniform to the left side during the broadcast...KOOL!!!
-
Congrats to all the teams, well done! Thanks for the great coverage, shout out to the "man from down under"! :)
-
Congrats to all involved with this 4th SBIRS Launch!was my B-day today and this was definately my big birthday "candle"!!! ;) :D ;D 8)
-
Congratulations to ULA and USAF for the successful launch!
-
Congrats to ULA on a successful launch! I could see the rocket from liftoff until the 2nd stage disappeared over the horizon! It was quite spectacular for my first launch! Seeing falcon heavy lit up on the pad was icing on the cake!
-
Congratulations to ULA and USAF. That was a very nice launch and webcast.
I was a bit surprised that the webcast didn't end with payload fairing separation.
We've seen many images, from several angles, of SBIRS-GEO s/c. And, the initial and final orbits aren't secret.
There's no reason to do so.
***
Let me add my congratulations to the entire launch campaign team. And, my thanks to the NSF team for the launch article and launch thread coverage--particularly William, Steven, and Chris!
-
Congrats to ULA and the USAF on delivering the fourth SBIRS-GEO spacecraft into orbit.
-
T+6 minutes. Showing interview.
The young Capt's comments about the number of SBIRs HEO operational was interesting. Unless there have failures in orbit there should 4 operational, not two...
-
Congrats ULA!
(never any doubt)
-
T+6 minutes. Showing interview.
The young Capt's comments about the number of SBIRs HEO operational was interesting. Unless there have failures in orbit there should 4 operational, not two...
Maybe the sensor lifetimes have been expired - the first two were launched in 2006 and 2008 after all....
-
T+6 minutes. Showing interview.
The young Capt's comments about the number of SBIRs HEO operational was interesting. Unless there have failures in orbit there should 4 operational, not two...
Maybe the sensor lifetimes have been expired - the first two were launched in 2006 and 2008 after all....
Yeah, would active cooling eg JWST improve the sensitivity of an Earth-observing IR instrument? Maybe they ran out of helium(etc).
-
ULA launch pics
-
T+6 minutes. Showing interview.
The young Capt's comments about the number of SBIRs HEO operational was interesting. Unless there have failures in orbit there should 4 operational, not two...
Maybe the sensor lifetimes have been expired - the first two were launched in 2006 and 2008 after all....
TWINS A and B are hosted on the same satellites. Are they still operational?
"Trumpet Follow On-1" 1 and 2 (http://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/trumpet-fo.htm)
-
Since Embry-Riddle University's observation decks closed before 6:00 PM today, I relocated my filming setup to a good spot near one of the adjacent parking lots.
Despite that event, I managed to get decent footage of the SBIRS-GEO 4 launch from a distance of 50 miles. I apologize for the blurriness; this being a night launch downgraded the video quality.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYC3c8mMuQE
-
T+6 minutes. Showing interview.
The young Capt's comments about the number of SBIRs HEO operational was interesting. Unless there have failures in orbit there should 4 operational, not two...
Maybe the sensor lifetimes have been expired - the first two were launched in 2006 and 2008 after all....
Yeah, would active cooling eg JWST improve the sensitivity of an Earth-observing IR instrument? Maybe they ran out of helium(etc).
HEO Payload Features
• Hosted in Molniya Orbit
• ~500-lb infrared payload: scanning sensor
— 3 colors: short-wave, mid-wave, and see-to-ground
sensor chip assemblies
— Short Schmidt telescopes with dual optical pointing
— Agile precision gimbal pointing and control
— Passive thermal cooling +++
— 100 Mbps data rate to ground
— Strategic and Theater Surveillance
www.lockheedmartin.com/content/dam/.../sbirs/5_SBIRSHEOPayloadFactsheet.pdf
-
From the link, from Ground System Features
"Manages SBIRS objective constellation of 2 HEO payloads ..."
It may just be, contractually and from an acquisition perspective, the objective is 2. So 2 is what she said.
-
Atlas V - SIBRS Geo 4 - Launch 01-19-2018
USLaunchReport
Published on Jan 19, 2018
https://youtu.be/5diW04cKqvE?t=001
https://youtu.be/5diW04cKqvE
-
Congrats @ULALaunch, @LockheedMartin, @45thSpaceWing & @AF_SMC on a successful #AtlasV launch of #SBIRS GEO-4! Once on orbit, this satellite will significantly expand our strategic missile warning capabilities for our nation. Great job team!
https://twitter.com/afspacecc/status/954538062654173185
125
https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/954527024915275776
-
John does it again:
Ferocious power: The RD-180 engine and single AJ-60A solid rocket booster propel the @ulalaunch Atlas V and the #SBIRS GEO-4 satellite to orbit. Photo: @johnkrausphotos / @AmericaSpace
https://twitter.com/johnkrausphotos/status/954540895906488320
-
T+6 minutes. Showing interview.
The young Capt's comments about the number of SBIRs HEO operational was interesting. Unless there have failures in orbit there should 4 operational, not two...
Why would there be 4? There are two components to the SBIRS space segment: SBIRS GEO, and SBIRS HEO. HEO, referred to as "payloads" instead of "spacecraft/space vehicles/satellite" indicates it's a secondary payload on a satellite in HEO, highly elliptical (e.g. Molniya) orbit. Wikipedia offers some ideas on which spacecraft they are hitching with. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space-Based_Infrared_System
-
Atlas V SBIRS GEO Flight 4 Launch Highlights
United Launch Alliance
Published on Jan 19, 2018
A United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket carrying the SBIRS GEO Flight 4 mission lifts off from Space Launch Complex-41.
https://youtu.be/bjhzBtRKX-Q?t=001
https://youtu.be/bjhzBtRKX-Q
-
ULA video showed spacecraft separation.
-
ULA launch pics
Higher res attached
-
More ULA launch photos
-
I'm new to atlas launches so forgive my question regarding this particular one. At launch the umbilicals disconnected, however something caught my eye and looking in these photos I can see I wasn't imagining it. The top most umbilical just under the faring seems to have split and stuck out the side of the rocket. Is this normal? Seems to me that would create some drag
-
Some photos from the @ulalaunch last night. Streak images were both taken with @MiopsTrigger. Now on to Falcon Heavy Static Fire!!
https://twitter.com/_tomcross_/status/954622710444908545
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I'm new to atlas launches so forgive my question regarding this particular one. At launch the umbilicals disconnected, however something caught my eye and looking in these photos I can see I wasn't imagining it. The top most umbilical just under the faring seems to have split and stuck out the side of the rocket. Is this normal? Seems to me that would create some drag
Yes, this is normal. It is the Hydrogen vent fin to keep the evaporating H2 away from the vehicle during ascent.
-
News Release Issued: Jan 19, 2018 (8:47pm EST)
Under Control: U.S. Air Force's SBIRS GEO Flight-4 Missile Warning Satellite Responding to Commands
Satellites' accuracy and sensitivity for detecting infrared targets significantly exceed specifications.
BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo., Jan. 19, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Air Force's 460th Space Wing is now "talking" with the fourth Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellite after its successful launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, earlier this evening.
The Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT)-built SBIRS GEO Flight-4 satellite is responding to the Wing's commands as planned. Signal acquisition was confirmed approximately 37 minutes after the satellite's 7:48 p.m. EST launch aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket.
SBIRS GEO Flight-4 is the latest satellite to join the Air Force's orbiting missile warning constellation equipped with powerful scanning and staring infrared surveillance sensors. The sensors collect data for use by the U.S. military to detect missile launches, support ballistic missile defense, expand technical intelligence gathering and bolster situational awareness on the battlefield. The satellite also completes the initial constellation and allows SBIRS to provide global coverage.
Back on the ground at Buckley Air Force Base, a sophisticated new SBIRS ground control system – also designed by Lockheed Martin – serves as the nerve center for the entire SBIRS satellite constellation and receives large amounts of data from the satellites' powerful sensors. The SBIRS control system and its operators convert this data into actionable reports for defense, intelligence and civil applications.
"SBIRS is the nation's 24-7 global watchman, with infrared eyes ready to detect and deliver early warning and tracking of ballistic missiles. A cornerstone of the nation's missile defense system, SBIRS is proving even more precise and powerful than expected," said Tom McCormick, vice president of Lockheed Martin's Overhead Persistent Infrared systems mission area. "Space is a place to do great things, and we're already improving on SBIRS, upgrading our fifth and sixth SBIRS GEO satellites to our modernized LM 2100 satellite bus at no additional cost to the Air Force. On SBIRS 5 and 6 the Air Force saved $1 billion through improved production and management efficiencies."
In late 2016, Lockheed Martin also completed a major upgrade SBIRS' ground control system. The new "SBIRS Block 10" system includes enhancements like faster data collection times, improved threat detections, and improved target tracking and infrared information to enable troops to see dimmer targets faster. SBIRS Block 10 also provides the Air Force with greater efficiency by consolidating ground control for the legacy Defense Support Program, as well as SBIRS satellites and payloads in GEO and Highly Elliptical Orbits.
Next, the SBIRS GEO Flight-4 will begin transitioning to its final location in geosynchronous orbit, approximately 22,000 miles above the Earth. There, the satellite's solar arrays, light shade and antennas will be deployed to begin on-orbit testing. The satellite will join SBIRS GEO Flights 1, 2 and 3, which were launched in 2011, 2013 and 2017 respectively and continue to meet or exceed performance expectations.
Lockheed Martin manufactured the SBIRS GEO Flight-4 satellite at its Sunnyvale, California, facility. The satellite was delivered to Florida on Oct. 31, 2017.
The SBIRS development team is led by the Remote Sensing Systems Directorate at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, California. Lockheed Martin Space, Sunnyvale, California, is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems, Azusa, California, as the payload integrator.
For additional SBIRS information, photos and video visit: www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs.
-
Congrats to ULA, USAF, Eastern Range, and all others. 8)
Thank you Steven, Chris, and NSF for the coverage.
:)
-
I'm new to atlas launches so forgive my question regarding this particular one. At launch the umbilicals disconnected, however something caught my eye and looking in these photos I can see I wasn't imagining it. The top most umbilical just under the faring seems to have split and stuck out the side of the rocket. Is this normal? Seems to me that would create some drag
Yes, this is normal. It is the Hydrogen vent fin to keep the evaporating H2 away from the vehicle during ascent.
Awesome, thanks for the quick reply and the info.
-
T+8 minutes. First launch she's ever been a part of.
Also, a mention of intended launch years for SBIRS-GEO 5 (2021) and SBIRS-GEO 6 (2022), confirming information that we already had.
-
Congratulations to all concerned in this launch.
-
43162 SBIRS GEO 4 (USA 282) 2018-009A
-
UP CLOSE Atlas-V Launches SBIRS GEO-4 Missile Defense Satellite / Jan 19, 2018
AmericaSpace
Published on Jan 20, 2018
https://youtu.be/Eql1facduzU?t=001
https://youtu.be/Eql1facduzU
-
https://youtu.be/eWQOPIuynDQ (https://youtu.be/eWQOPIuynDQ)
-
https://youtu.be/X69J0TNoQog (https://youtu.be/X69J0TNoQog)
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News Release Issued: May 2, 2018 (9:07am EDT)
First Light: Fourth U.S. Air Force SBIRS Satellite Sends First Images Back to Earth
SBIRS GEO Flight-4 Completes Baseline Constellation, Global Coverage
BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo., May 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Air Force's fourth Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) satellite transmitted its first images back to Earth. The milestone, known as "first light," occurred in February when the SBIRS GEO Flight-4 satellite, built by Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), turned on its powerful sensors for the first time during space vehicle checkout.
SBIRS GEO Flight-4 is the latest satellite to join the Air Force's orbiting missile warning constellation. Equipped with powerful scanning and staring infrared surveillance sensors, the satellite collects data for use by the U.S. military to detect missile launches, support ballistic missile defense, expand technical intelligence gathering and bolster situational awareness on the battlefield.
Launched on Jan. 19, SBIRS GEO Flight-4 began responding to the Air Force's 460th Space Wing's commands just 37 minutes after liftoff. Using its liquid apogee engine, the satellite successfully propelled itself to a Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) altitude of about 22,000 miles. There, it deployed its solar arrays and antennas, and began initial check out.
"First light was a tremendous milestone for SBIRS GEO Flight-4 and we are very pleased with the high quality and definition of the images we received back," said Tom McCormick, vice president of Lockheed Martin's Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) systems mission area. "With the launch of this satellite, SBIRS can now provide global coverage, with better-than-specified sensor pointing accuracy and the ability to detect even more targets than anticipated."
SBIRS GEO Flight-4 completes the baseline SBIRS constellation. It joins SBIRS GEO Flights-1, 2 and 3, which were launched in 2011, 2013 and 2017 respectively.
In 2014, the Air Force awarded Lockheed Martin a $1.86 billion contract for the SBIRS GEO-5 and 6 spacecraft. Following that award, the company offered the government a no-cost contract modification, transitioning to its modernized LM 2100 satellite bus, to demonstrate how production cycle times and costs could be drastically reduced on future space vehicles. The modification also provides improved resiliency and validates how modernized sensor suites could be incorporated.
SBIRS GEO-5 and GEO-6 are currently greater than 50 percent through production and on track for delivery to the Air Force very early in the next decade.
For additional SBIRS information, photos and video visit: www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs.html.
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There is obviously some confusion about the ID of the satellite. The launch date ID's this a GEO-4 but the story consistently calls it GEO-3. Paragraph 4 does refer to this as the 4th launch. Didn't the order of launch get switched and does that explain the (my) confusion? :o
https://www.afspc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/1631971/sbirs-geo-3-successfully-achieves-operational-acceptance/
SBIRS GEO-3 Successfully Achieves Operational Acceptance
SMC Public Affairs / Published September 13, 2018
The Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) Geosynchronous Earth Orbit satellite (GEO-3) successfully achieved Air Force Space Command operational acceptance. The satellite is healthy and sending data to the Mission Control Station, operated by the 460th Space Wing located at Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado.
SBIRS GEO-3 launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 411 booster on January 19, 2018. Upon separation from the booster, satellite operations personnel began a series of planned Liquid Apogee Engine transfer orbit maneuvers to safely place the spacecraft into its final orbit. GEO-3 reached its intended orbit and began spacecraft checkout activities by deploying the satellite’s light shade, solar array wing assemblies, and antenna wing assemblies. With the spacecraft safely on orbit, sensor testing and checkout activities began, leading to a tuned and calibrated payload ready for warfighter use.
“The achievement of operational acceptance means the spacecraft’s infrared sensors are now considered fully operational and ready for warfighters”, said Lt Col Leroy Brown, Jr., Program Manager for SBIRS GEO-3. “This is a huge win for the combined Program Office, Lockheed Martin Space, and Northrop Grumman team, as well as, the military, civilian, and civil users of the infrared data the SBIRS satellite constellation provides.”
The GEO-3 launch marked the fourth launch of a Geosynchronous satellite, providing worldwide coverage as the Air Force replaces the legacy Defense Support Program missile warning and missile detection satellites that began operations over 45 years ago.
The Remote Sensing Systems Directorate at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center at Los Angeles AFB in Los Angeles, California manages the SBIRS program. Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, California, is the SBIRS prime contractor, and Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems, Azusa, California, is the payload integrator. The 460th Space Wing at Buckley AFB in Aurora, Colorado, operates the SBIRS constellation. The SBIRS program delivers timely, reliable and accurate missile-warning and infrared surveillance information to the president of the United States, the secretary of defense, combatant commanders, the intelligence community and other key decision makers. The system enhances global missile launch detection capability, supports the nation’s ballistic missile defense system, expands the country’s technical intelligence gathering capacity and bolsters situational awareness for warfighters on the battlefield.
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There is obviously some confusion about the ID of the satellite. The launch date ID's this a GEO-4 but the story consistently calls it GEO-3. Paragraph 4 does refer to this as the 4th launch. Didn't the order of launch get switched and does that explain the (my) confusion? :o
https://www.afspc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/1631971/sbirs-geo-3-successfully-achieves-operational-acceptance/
SBIRS GEO-3 Successfully Achieves Operational Acceptance
SMC Public Affairs / Published September 13, 2018
The Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) Geosynchronous Earth Orbit satellite (GEO-3) successfully achieved Air Force Space Command operational acceptance. The satellite is healthy and sending data to the Mission Control Station, operated by the 460th Space Wing located at Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado.
SBIRS GEO-3 launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 411 booster on January 19, 2018. Upon separation from the booster, satellite operations personnel began a series of planned Liquid Apogee Engine transfer orbit maneuvers to safely place the spacecraft into its final orbit. GEO-3 reached its intended orbit and began spacecraft checkout activities by deploying the satellite’s light shade, solar array wing assemblies, and antenna wing assemblies. With the spacecraft safely on orbit, sensor testing and checkout activities began, leading to a tuned and calibrated payload ready for warfighter use.
“The achievement of operational acceptance means the spacecraft’s infrared sensors are now considered fully operational and ready for warfighters”, said Lt Col Leroy Brown, Jr., Program Manager for SBIRS GEO-3. “This is a huge win for the combined Program Office, Lockheed Martin Space, and Northrop Grumman team, as well as, the military, civilian, and civil users of the infrared data the SBIRS satellite constellation provides.”
The GEO-3 launch marked the fourth launch of a Geosynchronous satellite, providing worldwide coverage as the Air Force replaces the legacy Defense Support Program missile warning and missile detection satellites that began operations over 45 years ago.
The Remote Sensing Systems Directorate at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center at Los Angeles AFB in Los Angeles, California manages the SBIRS program. Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, California, is the SBIRS prime contractor, and Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems, Azusa, California, is the payload integrator. The 460th Space Wing at Buckley AFB in Aurora, Colorado, operates the SBIRS constellation. The SBIRS program delivers timely, reliable and accurate missile-warning and infrared surveillance information to the president of the United States, the secretary of defense, combatant commanders, the intelligence community and other key decision makers. The system enhances global missile launch detection capability, supports the nation’s ballistic missile defense system, expands the country’s technical intelligence gathering capacity and bolsters situational awareness for warfighters on the battlefield.
Yes, the 3rd and 4th launches were production numbers SV4 and SV3 respectively.
Previously I've seen this vehicle as "SBIRS-GEO SV3" but "SBIRS GEO-4"
but I guess they've changed the practice