NASASpaceFlight.com Forum
Commercial and US Government Launch Vehicles => ULA - Delta, Atlas, Vulcan => Topic started by: jacqmans on 07/23/2007 06:42 pm
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PAYLOAD FOR LOCKHEED MARTIN-BUILT MISSILE WARNING SATELLITE COMPLETES EXTENSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL TEST PHASE
GEO-1 PAYLOAD READIED FOR DELIVERY FOR START OF INTEGRATION WITH SPACECRAFT
SUNNYVALE, CALIF., July 23, 2007
Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] announced today that the payload for the first Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous orbit (GEO) spacecraft has successfully completed thermal vacuum testing, a key milestone in preparation for launch of this first-of-its-kind satellite.
SBIRS will provide early warning of ballistic missile launches and support other missions simultaneously, including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace characterization. Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, Calif., the SBIRS prime contractor, and Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems, Azusa, Calif., the payload subcontractor, are developing SBIRS for the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles, Calif. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.
The successful test, conducted at Northrop Grumman's Azusa facilities from March 11 to June 15, demonstrated the function and performance of the fully integrated GEO-1 payload in vacuum conditions at temperatures bounding the environments expected when the SBIRS satellite is on orbit.
Key aspects of the test included radiometric performance, simultaneous tasking of both sensors against moving IR targets, on-board target processing against cluttered backgrounds, data downlink formatting and spacecraft interface verification. Test evaluation shows the GEO sensor will perform in family with the SBIRS HEO payload sensor now on orbit.
The GEO payloads feature a scanning sensor that will provide for short revisit times over its full field of view and a staring sensor that can be tasked for step-stare or dedicated stare operations over smaller areas. The GEO scanner and other payload components such as the focal plane assembly, and processing algorithms are identical to those used on SBIRS highly elliptical orbit (HEO) payloads, the first of which has completed initial on-orbit deployment and checkout and demonstrated that its performance meets or exceeds specifications.
"This test, performed over a three-month period, is testimony to the team's drive to attain operational excellence and mission success on this vital national security program," said Mark Crowley, Lockheed Martin's SBIRS vice president. "Our team has completed a series of major milestones and is poised to begin final assembly, integration and test following delivery of the critical payload."
Northrop Grumman will now prepare the payload for delivery to Lockheed Martin's facilities in Sunnyvale, Calif. facilities in early August where it will be integrated with the GEO-1 spacecraft. Lockheed Martin is currently under contract to provide two HEO payloads and two GEO satellites, as well as the ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employees about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2006 sales of $39.6 billion.
Contact:
Steve Tatum
408-742-7531;
e-mail [email protected]
NOTE TO EDITORS: for low- and high-resolution JPEG image files of the SBIRS GEO-1 payload and spacecraft, please visit our SBIRS web page at: http://www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs/
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This is not a Delta II mission
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It is a Atlas-V 401 mission, not a Delta II
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Didn't the origonal DSP's go up on Titan 3/4's. My,My how the payload has shrunk and SBIRS now fits on a 401.
(Of course you should have seen me doing a double take last night when a Delta II was mistakenly listed as the launch vehicle).
So how much is being saved launching on an ATLAS 401 instead of a Titan IV...
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I do not have the mass of the SBIRS-GEO sats, but we can make an estamate, as the second SBIRS-GEO is going on a Delta-IVM+(4,2). The fact, that not the smallest Delta IVM is used indicates a launch mass of more than 4210 kg. The upper limit is the capacity of the Atlas-V-401 of 4950 kg.
The comparison with the DSP is not trivial, as the DSP were delivered directly to GEO, while the SBIRS-GEOs will be dropped off in GTO and have to insert themselves into GEO
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SBIRS GEO 1 is not planned to launch in 2007 at this time (not even before the AV-009 issue). Probably late 08 or early 09.
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kevin-rf - 24/7/2007 12:00 PM
Didn't the origonal DSP's go up on Titan 3/4's. My,My how the payload has shrunk and SBIRS now fits on a 401.
(Of course you should have seen me doing a double take last night when a Delta II was mistakenly listed as the launch vehicle).
So how much is being saved launching on an ATLAS 401 instead of a Titan IV...
The last DSP is going on a D-IV heavy.
SBIRS is split up into GEO, LEO and HEO. So can't make a direct comparsion
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NEW MISSILE WARNING SATELLITE BUILT BY LOCKHEED MARTIN PROGRESSING IN CRITICAL TEST PHASE
SUNNYVALE, Calif., , March 19, 2008 -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] announced today that the first Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous orbit (GEO-1) spacecraft is progressing through a series of key tests that will demonstrate the integrated satellite's readiness to enter the critical environmental test phase in preparation for launch in late 2009.
SBIRS is designed to provide early warning of missile launches, and simultaneously support other missions including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace characterization.
The test phase, known as Baseline Integrated System Test (BIST), is conducted at Lockheed Martin's Space Systems facilities in Sunnyvale, Calif. and is designed to characterize the overall performance of the GEO-1 satellite and establish a performance baseline prior to entering environmental testing.
The first phase of BIST, which included the GEO-1 spacecraft in an expanded configuration, was completed on Jan. 23, 2008. Following the successful test, the team assembled the satellite into the flight configuration, including the GEO-1 bus and payload and other critical subsystems. A comprehensive test of the integrated satellite is now underway.
Upon the completion of BIST in May, the team will integrate the satellite's solar arrays, deployable light shade, and thermal blankets and then prepare for acoustic and pyroshock testing where the integrated spacecraft will be subjected to the maximum sound and vibration levels expected during launch into orbit.
Prior to the start of environmental testing, the team will also conduct a major test to validate that the SBIRS ground components and the GEO satellite can work together during launch and on-orbit operation.
"Our steady progress in this critical integrated satellite test phase reflects the entire team's hard work and dedication to operational excellence on this vital national security program," said Jeff Smith, Lockheed Martin's SBIRS vice president and GEO-1 program manager."This first-of-its-kind satellite will provide unprecedented new capabilities for our warfighters and we look forward to achieving mission success for our customer."
The team was recently selected by the U.S. Air Force as its nominee for the National Aeronautic Association's 2007 Robert J. Collier Trophy for the successful development, deployment, test and on-orbit operations of the first SBIRS Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO) payload.
Considered America's most prestigious award for aeronautical and space development, the Robert J. Collier Trophy is awarded annually for the greatest achievement in aeronautics or astronautics in America, with respect to improving the performance, efficiency, and safety of air or space vehicles, the value of which has been thoroughly demonstrated by actual use during the preceding year.
The first HEO payload has demonstrated that its performance meets or exceeds specifications.The test team safely pushed system performance so that data collection and processing results exceeded government specifications in over 95% of cases. Payload sensitivity, initial report time, pointing accuracy, potential for supporting unplanned missions, efficiency and safety were all largely improved by the multi-disciplinary approach this team undertook.
The SBIRS team is led by the Space Based Infrared Systems Wing at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif. Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, Calif., is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems, Azusa, Calif., as the payload subcontractor. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.
Lockheed Martin is currently under contract to provide two HEO payloads and two GEO satellites, as well as the ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation reported 2007 sales of $41.9 billion.
NOTE TO EDITORS:for low- and high-resolution JPEG image files of SBIRS, please visit our SBIRS web page at: http://www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs/
Media Contact: Steve Tatum, 408-742-7531; e-mail, [email protected]
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LOCKHEED MARTIN ACHIEVES KEY MILESTONE ON NEW MISSILE WARNING SATELLITE
GEO-1 Spacecraft Ready for Environmental Test Phase
SUNNYVALE, Calif., April 30, 2008 -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] announced today that it has achieved a major integrated test milestone on the first Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous orbit (GEO-1) spacecraft that enables the start of environmental testing in preparation for launch in late 2009.
The GEO-1 satellite, designed to provide new missile detection and surveillance capabilities for the nation, has completed a comprehensive Baseline Integrated System Test (BIST) phase which began in early March to characterize the overall performance of the GEO-1 satellite and establish a performance baseline for entering environmental testing.
"I am proud of our entire team for completing this significant milestone ahead of the planned schedule," said Col Roger Teague, the U.S. Air Force's SBIRS Wing Commander. "We continue to build confidence as we march towards the inaugural launch of this vitally important spacecraft."
With the completion of BIST, the team will integrate the satellite's solar arrays, deployable light shade, and thermal blankets and then prepare for acoustic and pyroshock testing where the integrated space vehicle will be subjected to the maximum sound and vibration levels expected during launch into orbit.
"This comprehensive test confirms our readiness to enter the critical environmental test stage," said Jeff Smith, Lockheed Martin's SBIRS vice president and program manager. "Our team continues to make significant progress on this sophisticated satellite and we look forward to achieving mission success for our customer."
SBIRS is designed to provide early warning of missile launches, and simultaneously support other missions including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace characterization.
The SBIRS team is led by the Space Based Infrared Systems Wing at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif. Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, Calif., is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems, Azusa, Calif., as the payload integrator. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.
Lockheed Martin's current contract includes two highly elliptical orbit (HEO) payloads and two GEO satellites, as well as ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data.The Lockheed Martin team has delivered both HEO payloads and the first GEO satellite launch is scheduled for late 2009. The first HEO payload has completed initial on-orbit deployment and checkout and demonstrated that its performance meets or exceeds specifications. The program is in the early stages of adding additional GEO spacecraft and HEO payloads to the planned constellation.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation reported 2007 sales of $41.9 billion.
NOTE TO EDITORS:for low- and high-resolution JPEG image files of SBIRS, please visit our SBIRS web page at: http://www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs/
Media Contact: Steve Tatum, 408-742-7531; e-mail, [email protected]
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Has related notes on GEO-1:
LOCKHEED MARTIN SBIRS TEAM COMPLETES ON-ORBIT HANDOVER OF FIRST HEO PAYLOAD TO U.S. AIR FORCE
SUNNYVALE, Calif., Aug 5, 2008 – Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] announced today the successful on-orbit handover of the first Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO-1) payload and ground system to the U.S. Air Force in preparation for the start of certified operations later this year.
SBIRS is designed to provide early warning of missile launches, and simultaneously support other missions including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace characterization.
Announced to be on-orbit in Nov. 2006, the HEO-1 payload has been exceeding performance specifications during an extensive on-orbit test regimen necessary before it can begin on-orbit operations for the user. The HEO-1 payload and associated ground components will now undergo a final independent operational test and evaluation.
“This major milestone is direct testimony to our entire team's talent and dedication to successfully deliver this vitally important program to the warfighter," said Jeff Smith, Lockheed Martin's SBIRS vice president. "The improved infrared event detection and reporting capabilities provided by SBIRS are critical to our nation's information and intelligence architecture and we look forward to achieving total mission success for our customer."
The SBIRS team is led by the Space Based Infrared Systems Wing at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif. Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, Calif., is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems, Azusa, Calif., as the payload integrator. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.
The U.S. Air Force/Lockheed Martin-led team recently announced that the HEO-2 payload is now on-orbit over the northern hemisphere and that its performance meets or exceeds specifications following early on-orbit checkout. In addition to detecting ballistic missile launches from northern polar regions, HEO payloads also have improved sensitivity needed to detect dimmer theater missiles and can be tasked to scan other areas of military interest. The HEO-2 payload is expected to begin operations by early 2009.
The HEO sensor provides an unprecedented infrared view of the battlefield that represents the first steps in an evolving battlespace awareness capability while also providing real-time data on missiles, aircraft and other events.
The team is also progressing through key integration and test activities on the first geosynchronous orbit (GEO) spacecraft. Preparations are now underway to integrate the GEO-1 satellite's solar arrays, deployable light shade, and thermal blankets in preparation for the start of acoustic and pyroshock testing in August when the integrated spacecraft will be subjected to the maximum sound and vibration levels expected during launch into orbit. Thermal vacuum testing of the completed GEO-1 space vehicle, which will validate its performance at temperature extremes greater than those expected during on-orbit operations, is on track for mid-2009 in preparation for launch in Dec. 2009.
As the SBIRS prime contractor, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company provides program management, the GEO spacecraft bus, HEO and GEO payload pointing, and system engineering and integration. Lockheed Martin Information Systems & Global Services builds and maintains the SBIRS ground segment which has been operational since 2001. Northrop Grumman is the major subcontractor and provides the HEO and GEO payloads and participates in ground system development and systems engineering.
Lockheed Martin's current SBIRS contract includes the two HEO payloads now on-orbit, two GEO satellites, as well as ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data. The program is in the early stages of adding additional GEO spacecraft and HEO payloads to the planned constellation.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation reported 2007 sales of $41.9 billion.
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First SBIRS Satellite With New Flight Software Completes Key Test At Lockheed Martin
SUNNYVALE, Calif., , January 29, 2009 -- The first Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous orbit (GEO-1) satellite, built by a Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] team for the U.S. Air Force, has successfully completed a major test utilizing new flight software that will enable highly reliable spacecraft command and control operations. The SBIRS program is designed to provide early warning of missile launches, and simultaneously support other missions including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness.
The successful test of the GEO-1 spacecraft, known as Baseline Integrated System Test (BIST), was conducted from Jan. 2, to Jan 27, 2009 at Lockheed Martin's Space Systems facilities in Sunnyvale, Calif. The test characterized the performance of the integrated satellite and established a performance baseline prior to entering thermal vacuum testing.
"This achievement is another example of our effective collaboration and joint commitment to successful execution of this critical national system," said Col Roger Teague, the U.S. Air Force's SBIRS Wing Commander. "The team executed a smooth and efficient test, giving us high confidence that we are ready to enter thermal vacuum testing, one of our most critical program milestones."
Lockheed Martin's SBIRS flight software architecture is designed to enable robust command and data handling, fault management and safe-hold capabilities on the GEO satellite system.
"The fully-integrated GEO-1 satellite utilizing our new flight software architecture performed with outstanding results," said Jeff Smith, Lockheed Martin's SBIRS vice president. "We look forward to proceeding with thermal vacuum testing and delivering the first-of-its-kind data from this spacecraft to the warfighter."
The new flight software used during BIST contains applications that control space vehicle electrical power, temperature, attitude and navigation. It also features a robust fault management system, which responds when an anomaly is detected during on-orbit operations, putting the satellite into a safe state while ground operators analyze the situation and take corrective action.
Delivery of the final flight software block is planned for February to support thermal vacuum testing which will validate spacecraft performance at temperature extremes greater than those expected during on-orbit operations. The spacecraft is planned for delivery to the Air Force in fiscal year 2010 in preparation for launch aboard an Atlas V launch vehicle.
The SBIRS team is led by the Space Based Infrared Systems Wing at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif. Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, Calif., is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems, Azusa, Calif., as the payload integrator. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.
Lockheed Martin's current SBIRS contract includes the two HEO payloads now on-orbit, two GEO satellites, as well as ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data. The program is in the early stages of adding additional GEO spacecraft and HEO payloads to the planned constellation.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.
NOTE TO EDITORS: for low- and high-resolution JPEG image files of SBIRS, please visit our SBIRS web page at: http://www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs/
Media Contact:
Steve Tatum
408-742-7531
[email protected]
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has successfully completed a major test utilizing new flight software that will enable highly reliable spacecraft command and control operations
Not to add one and one and get three, but I wonder if this is some sort reaction to the recent DOD payload losses and to stretch further and get 3 1/2, the losses came down to software issues.
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Why is that under GEO, WGS is the next flight
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This launch seems to have slipped off the forum radar.
SPACE & MISSILE SYSTEMS CENTER (AFSPC)
Release no: 11-04-04
Date: April 12, 2011
SBIRS GEO-1 Fueled for Launch
LOS ANGELES AIR FORCE BASE, El Segundo, Calif. -- The Space Based Infrared Systems team passed a major milestone April 11 with the successful completion of the spacecraft fueling for the GEO-1 satellite.
Space vehicle fueling signifies all spacecraft preparations are complete, and the satellite is ready to be mated with the rocket for an early May launch.
The final decision to fuel was given by Lt. Gen. Tom Sheridan, commander of the Space and Missile Systems Center here, after several detailed readiness reviews were conducted in the months prior to beginning fueling operations.
“The joint government/industry team has made tremendous progress and established exceptional commitment in preparing the first SBIRS GEO spacecraft for launch,” said Brig. Gen. (s) Roger Teague, director of SMC’s Infrared Space Systems Directorate. “The completion of fueling GEO -1 is a strong indication we are moving quickly toward final preparation for launch.”
The SBIRS spacecraft propulsion system is a dual-mode design, which operates as a pressure regulated bipropellant system consisting of fuel and oxidizer and a monopropellant system consisting of hydrazine. Propellants include hydrazine and nitrogen tetroxide.
In the bipropellant mode, the system operates with hypergolic propellants, hydrazine (fuel) and nitrogen tetroxide (oxidizer) for high performance during orbital transfer. Once on station, the system operates in monopropellant mode, using only the hydrazine as fuel for simplicity and reliability.
“Fueling of SBIRS GEO-1 is a major milestone, and I am extremely proud of the entire joint government and industry SBIRS team. We have demonstrated outstanding commitment to the program in preparing this spacecraft for launch,” said Jeff Smith, Lockheed Martin’s vice president and SBIRS program director.
The next major milestone for GEO-1 is payload fairing encapsulation and transport to the Vertical Integration Facility where it will be mated to the top of the launch vehicle.
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Launch currently scheduled for May 6, lift-off at 2:25 pm EDT (window 2:25 - 3:05 pm EDT).
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Lockheed Martin-Built Missile Warning Satellite Encapsulated in Launch Vehicle Payload Fairing
Date: 26-Apr-2011 2:47 PM
Team Prepares U.S. Air Force's SBIRS GEO-1 for Early May Liftoff
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla., April 26, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The first Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) - built Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous (GEO-1) spacecraft was encapsulated into its payload fairing April 20 in preparation for an early May liftoff aboard an Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
SBIRS GEO-1 will enhance the nation's missile warning capabilities and improve other critical mission areas simultaneously including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness.
The GEO-1 satellite includes highly sophisticated scanning and starring sensors that will deliver enhanced infrared sensitivity and a reduction in area revisit times over the current constellation. The scanning sensor will provide a wide area surveillance of missile launches and natural phenomena across the earth, while the staring sensor will be used to observe smaller areas of interest with enhanced sensitivity. When GEO-1 is launched, declared operational and its data is fused into the current constellation, SBIRS will deliver unprecedented, global, persistent, taskable infrared surveillance capabilities to the warfighter, nation and allies for decades to come.
The SBIRS team is led by the Infrared Space Systems Directorate at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center. Lockheed Martin is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman, as the payload integrator. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.
Media Contact:
Michael Friedman
303-971-7255
[email protected]
For low- and high-resolution JPEG image files of SBIRS, please visit: http://www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs
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Does anyone know the serial number of this Atlas launch vehicle?
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Does anyone know the serial number of this Atlas launch vehicle?
This (http://www.spaceflightnow.com/atlas/av022/status.html) hints at AV-022, can't find any direct evidence though.
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ULA:
All launch preparations are progressing well in support of the Atlas V Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) GEO-1 launch set for Friday, May 6 for the U.S. Air Force. The launch window is 2:14 until 2:54 p.m. EDT. The weather forecast is looking very favorable with an 80 percent chance of acceptable weather! Satellite coordinates and some important event dates surrounding launch can be found below.
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L-1: Thursday, May 5
10:00 a.m.: Atlas V rolls to the pad (I will send pictures shortly after)
12:30 p.m.: Remote camera photographers meet in the Space Florida parking lot for escort to the SLC-41 to set cameras
L-0: Friday, May 6
12:30: 45th SW/PA meets media at the Kennedy Space Center Pass and ID Building on State Road 3 for escort to media launch viewing site
13:54: The SBIRS launch will be carried live beginning 20 minutes prior to launch and will conclude approximately 45 minutes following launch. A simulcast of the broadcast can be viewed here:
http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml
· 14:14 p.m.: Opening of the launch window (2:14 p.m. EDT)
Satellite Coordinates
ALL TIMES EASTERN DAYLIGHT TIME
MAY 6, 2011
TEST – 1:00 P.M.
BARS AND TONE – 1:23 P.M.
BROADCAST START – 1:54 P.M.
LAUNCH WINDOW – 2:14 – 2:54 P.M.
END TRANSMISSION: 3:45 P.M.
SATELLITE – AMC 3
TRANSPONDER – 16C
BAND – C-BAND ANALOG
ORBITAL POSITION – 87 DEGREES W
CARRIER – SES AMERICOM
BANDWIDTH – 36 MHz
UPLINK FREQ – 6245 MHz (Horizontal)
DOWNLINK FREQ – 4020 MHz (Vertical)
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Mission Booklet:
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and still no mention in the mission book of the Atlas serial number - wonder what is up with that?
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and still no mention in the mission book of the Atlas serial number - wonder what is up with that?
Wasn't a decision made a year or two ago to make EELV vehicles payload-independent? Perhaps they're now moving toward the Delta II/IV method, where there really isn't a mission number, but rather just a launch number decal that is slapped on the rocket night before liftoff? (If that.)
- Ed Kyle
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AV-022
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Everything I've seen indicates that it is AV-022, guess we should know for sure on Thursday when they wheel her out to the pad :)
edit: Jim beat me to it...
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U.S. AIR FORCE POISED TO LAUNCH FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND SPACE BASED INFRARED SYSTEM SATELLITE
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla., May 4th, 2011 – The U.S. Air Force and Lockheed Martin [NYSE : LMT] are ready to launch the first Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous (GEO-1) spacecraft on Friday, May 6 aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V launch vehicle from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. The launch window is 2:14 p.m. EDT to 2:54 p.m. EDT. A live launch broadcast will begin at 1:54 p.m. EDT and will be accessible via the ULA webcast.
SBIRS GEO-1 will enhance early warning of missile launches around the globe, support the nation's ballistic missile defense system, greatly expand our technical intelligence gathering capability, and provide enhanced situational awareness for warfighters on the battlefield.
“SBIRS GEO-1 represents the dawn of a new era in overhead persistent infrared surveillance that will greatly improve national security for years to come,” said Brig Gen (select) Roger W. Teague, the U.S. Air Force’s Infrared Space Systems Directorate director. “We look forward to getting this next generation system on orbit and delivering its enhanced capabilities to the warfigher.”
The GEO-1 satellite includes highly sophisticated scanning and staring sensors that will deliver enhanced infrared sensitivity and a reduction in area revisit times over the current constellation. The scanning sensor will provide a wide area surveillance of missile launches and natural phenomena across the earth, while the staring sensor will be tasked to observe smaller areas of interest with enhanced sensitivity.
“SBIRS GEO-1 will usher in a new era of critical missile warning capabilities vital to our national security, and we are focused on delivering mission success for the warfighter,” said Jeff Smith, Lockheed Martin’s vice president and SBIRS program director. “The dedication, talent and integrity of the entire SBIRS team has been remarkable, and this launch will be a testament to every individual who has supported this vitally important program.”
The SBIRS team is led by the Infrared Space Systems Directorate at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center. Lockheed Martin is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman as the payload integrator. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 126,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation's 2010 sales from continuing operations were $45.8 billion.
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Note to Editors:
· The SBIRS GEO-1 launch will be broadcast live beginning at 1:54 p.m. EDT (20 minutes prior to launch) and will conclude approximately 45 minutes following launch.
- Launch broadcast satellite coordinates:
SATELLITE – AMC 3
TRANSPONDER – 16C
BAND – C-BAND ANALOG
ORBITAL POSITION – 87 DEGREES W
CARRIER – SES AMERICOM
BANDWIDTH – 36 MHz
UPLINK FREQ – 6245 MHz (Horizontal)
DOWNLINK FREQ – 4020 MHz (Vertical)
- A webcast can be viewed online here: http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml
· SBIRS video and high resolution images are available for download at http://www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs
· B-Roll footage of spacecraft manufacturing and on-orbit animation is available upon request
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ULA:
The readiness reviews were completed and everything is proceeding for the Atlas V Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) GEO-1 launch on Friday, May 6 for the U.S. Air Force. The launch window is 2:14 until 2:54 p.m. EDT. Due to an increase in moisture on launch day with an increased threat of showers later in the count, the weather forecast today shows a 70 percent chance of acceptable weather. Please find the updated forecast below.
L-1: Thursday, May 5
10:00 a.m.: Atlas V rolls to the pad (I will send pictures shortly after)
12:30 p.m.: Remote camera photographers meet in the Space Florida parking lot for escort to the SLC-41 to set cameras
L-0: Friday, May 6
12:30: 45th SW/PA meets media at the Kennedy Space Center Pass and ID Building on State Road 3 for escort to media launch viewing site
13:54: The SBIRS launch will be carried live beginning 20 minutes prior to launch and will conclude approximately 45 minutes following launch. A simulcast of the broadcast can be viewed here:
http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml
· 14:14 p.m.: Opening of the launch window (2:14 p.m. EDT)
Weather Forecast
Overall probability of violating weather constraints: 30%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Clouds
Summary:
A cold front transits the peninsula through the day today with isolated showers and a small lightning threat. The front is expected to be South of Central Florida Thursday morning and stalling in South Florida on launch day. Southerly low level winds on Friday result in increased moisture return from the front to the South with an increase in shower potential during the count. For MLP roll, high pressure builds in through the day with winds from the Northeast gusting in the low to mid 20s (230 feet) behind the front. With the breezy on-shore flow, there is a small threat of an isolated coastal shower as the front continues to transit South. On launch day, high pressure persists over Central Florida with an increase of return moisture from the South resulting in an increase in the shower threat during the count with a greater threat late afternoon. Winds expected from the East to East-Southeast with gusts in the mid to upper teens through the count and window. The primary concern for launch is Cumulus Clouds.
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AV-022
Just saw it on the rocket. Finally.
- Ed Kyle
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I would like to catch the Atlas launch from a fair distance i.e. Orlando International Airport area as I am without a car.
A few questions are coming to mind.
Do I have a chance to see anything from that far away and if so how wil it look?
Any alternate spots accessible by public transport, LYNX bus, etc. Port Canaveral or Cocoa beach would probably be best though I would have to check what it costs to get there from the airport and how.
What are the chances that they launch tomorrow weather-wise and if so, what times, from when to when.
Thanks a lot in advance for your answers and ideas/suggestions.
:-)
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Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla. (May 5, 2011) - A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket with the Air Force’s Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) spacecraft rolls out to its Space Launch Complex-41 launch pad arriving at 11 a.m. EDT today. SBIRS is designed to provide global, persistent, infrared surveillance capability to meet 21st century demands in mission areas including missile warning, missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness. The launch of the SBIRS mission is set for Friday, May 6 with the launch period opening at 2:14 p.m. EDT. Photos by Pat Corkery, United Launch Alliance.
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I would like to catch the Atlas launch from a fair distance i.e. Orlando International Airport area as I am without a car.
A few questions are coming to mind.
Do I have a chance to see anything from that far away and if so how wil it look?
Any alternate spots accessible by public transport, LYNX bus, etc. Port Canaveral or Cocoa beach would probably be best though I would have to check what it costs to get there from the airport and how.
What are the chances that they launch tomorrow weather-wise and if so, what times, from when to when.
Thanks a lot in advance for your answers and ideas/suggestions.
:-)
Chances: 70% per LWO. Can't ever tell if a hardware anomaly will get them, but Atlases are pretty reliable these days.
Transport: there are shuttles from MCO to Cocoa Beach, but it's usually cheaper to rent a car for the day. KSC Visitors Center probably has tickets since it's not a Shuttle launch. IIRC, they watch ELV launches from the Saturn V Center, which is a VIP spot for STS launches. Jetty Park and Port Canaveral will probably be uncrowded too.
How it looks from MCO: a spot of light ascending in the Eastern sky, possibly with a vapor trail depending on atmospheric conditions.
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From what we are being told they aren't going to clear us from Pad A. I'm hoping I can take some video. First time being that close to a launch. I've watched the Atlases from Pad B before, but never Pad A.
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See if you can find an SPL meter too.
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See if you can find an SPL meter too.
Hmm. Interesting thought.
I'm wondering what the levels would be that far away: around 90dB?
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I want to say it's only about 2 miles away, if that...
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I checked on one of the Google maps measuring sites. It's about 11300 feet (2.15 miles) between the centers of the two flame buckets.
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Moved for live coverage
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Weather radar doesn't look good due to the storm coming in from the gulf. Looks like it'll be about on top of the launch site during the window.
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Wind advisory just announced on KSC and the Cape. Weather forecasts a Phase 1 lightning advisory around 17:00Z.
Edit: Weather now Red for anvil cloud, expected to clear between 15:15 and 15:30, then Red again.
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From what we are being told they aren't going to clear us from Pad A. I'm hoping I can take some video. First time being that close to a launch. I've watched the Atlases from Pad B before, but never Pad A.
That would be awesome if you can! :)
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ULA:
Everything is progressing well for an on time launch at 2:14 p.m. EDT of an Atlas V carrying the Air Force’s Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) GEO-1 satellite. The team is still monitoring the threat of showers and thunderstorms later in the count and the there is a 60 percent chance of acceptable weather for launch. The SBIRS launch will be carried live beginning 20 minutes prior to launch and will conclude approximately 45 minutes following launch. A simulcast of the broadcast can be viewed here: http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml
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Sounds like we aren't going to be cleared, now if the weather just holds out....
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T-2hours and holding
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Sounds like we aren't going to be cleared, now if the weather just holds out....
Fingers crossed for you! Is there anyone closer during launch?
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Sounds like we aren't going to be cleared, now if the weather just holds out....
Fingers crossed for you! Is there anyone closer during launch?
Is there anyone at SpaceX's HIF or pad at the moment? I think that SLC-40 is closer to SLC-41 than LC-39A.
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T-2hours and counting.
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ULA:
The team just completed the readiness poll for continuing the count and is proceeding with cryogenic tanking operations. The weather continues to be a concern due to anvil and cumulus clouds with the forecast now showing a 30 percent chance of acceptable weather at launch.
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ULA:
The team just completed the readiness poll for continuing the count and is proceeding with cryogenic tanking operations. The weather continues to be a concern due to anvil and cumulus clouds with the forecast now showing a 30 percent chance of acceptable weather at launch.
I know the answer is likely going to be "decades of experience", but I'll go ahead and ask the question. Why would the launch team proceed with the countdown at this point, when the odds of acceptable weather are so low?
- Ed Kyle
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Everything that is spent to keep folks around for an attempt the next day is spent to keep trying today. Weather forecasting is imperfect.
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ULA:
The team just completed the readiness poll for continuing the count and is proceeding with cryogenic tanking operations. The weather continues to be a concern due to anvil and cumulus clouds with the forecast now showing a 30 percent chance of acceptable weather at launch.
I know the answer is likely going to be "decades of experience", but I'll go ahead and ask the question. Why would the launch team proceed with the countdown at this point, when the odds of acceptable weather are so low?
- Ed Kyle
They'd look a bit foolish if they shut shop, went home and the weather was green at launch tme. ;)
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ULA:
Just one hour from launch, the team is not working any technical issues at this time. The range is still red for weather associated with the anvil cloud flight rule.
The launch broadcast is set to begin at 1:54 p.m. and will be simulcast at http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml.
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Launch Day article - by William Graham:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/05/live-atlas-v-launch-with-sbirs-geo1/
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All the clouds overhead are associated with some showers & storms, and the clouds just south of the pad are connected to some big storms over on the west half of the state.
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Weather is temporarily green, expected red soon for about 30 minutes.
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And we're just under L-30 minutes.
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Webcast has begun. Really would love help with screenshots (Rui and or others) :)
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Radio says weather is red.
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Expecting green weather. 18:15 ZULU (17 mins away).
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Red for cumulus. No clearance forecasted before 18:20Z. Cells could continue to form off the seabreeze about 15-20 miles inland from the coast.
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Love this LV:
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You're gonna love it more with a DC up top:)
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... or strapped to an ET derived core....
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About to poll to come out of the hold.
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No go due to weather.
Remain in the hold.
Extend for 10 minutes.
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NO-GO! Holding for 10 minutes.
Orbiter
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New T-0: 24 minutes past the hour.
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Forecast: no clearance prior to 18:45Z
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8 minutes until they come out of the T-4 minute hold if the weather goes Green.
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Extend hold another 5 minutes.
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T-0 now 29 minutes past the hour.
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Two separate weather constraints:
Cumulus clouds (expected to clear shortly)
Electrical field (static electricity, no estimate)
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RED on just one of the weather constraints now.
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Field Mill rule is green, cumulus cloud rule expected to clear between 18:45 and 18:50
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New T-0 34 mintues past the hour.
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Extend the hold again by 5 mins.
New T-0 39 mintues past the hour.
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May go green on weather in 5-10 mins.
New T-0 45 minutes past the hour.
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Will NASA TV not cover this launch live? Its showing STS-134 Crew Interviews right now.
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Will NASA TV not cover this launch live? Its showing STS-134 Crew Interviews right now.
I believe they only show NASA payload launches. A shame because at least camera 001 is HD, Probably a few more are around the Cape.
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Will NASA TV not cover this launch live? Its showing STS-134 Crew Interviews right now.
No, only here: http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml.
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Looks like some additional shower buildup along and to the west of I-95, moving east towards the coast...not sure if that's going to affect the cumulus cloud rule.
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On internal power and configured for launch.
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Range remains Red at this time.
60 seconds to polling.
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Polling. NO GO due to Weather.
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Permission to launch anyway (wow). Going with Red weather expecting it to clear in the count.
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Picking up the count in two minutes.
Sounds like they can call a hold at T-60 seconds if the weather remains Red.
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FCO will initiate hold at L-60s if it remains red.
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Rocketcam onboard, nice!
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This will be the one opportunity for today. Going to try and launch inbetween weather cells.
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T-4 mins and counting.
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T-3 minutes.
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FTS internal.
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T-120 seconds. Still Red. This is going to be tight!!
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FTS armed.
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T-60 seconds. HOLD HOLD HOLD!
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Gosh that guy made me jump..
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Nine minutes remaining on the window.
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Resetting to T-4 minutes and holding.
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Resetting countdown to T-4 and holding.
Orbiter
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5:25 minutes remaining in the window. Need to pick up real soon or it'll be a scrub.
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50 seconds.
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This will be the one opportunity for today. Going to try and launch inbetween weather cells.
Worth a try, but it looks like there might not be a break between the cells. About a minute left before they'd have to pick up...
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SCRUB
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Hah.. Camera didn't hang around after the scrub call. :P
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...damn!
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Great effort. Gave it every chance. Waiting to hear if it's a 24 or 48 hour scrub turnaround.
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evaluating turnaround duration: 24/48 hour.
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We'll stay on this thread for the next attempt.
Back to APU fun and games ;)
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Forecast for Cape Canaveral, Florida
Saturday May 7, 2011 Mostly sunny. Highs in the mid 80s. Northwest winds around 5 mph becoming northeast 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.
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T-60 seconds. HOLD HOLD HOLD!
The HOLD HOLD HOLD guy made me jump out of my chair. He shouted that call!
Great effort. Gave it every chance. Waiting to hear if it's a 24 or 48 hour scrub turnaround.
Yeah, was a very good try.
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Well it's usually best you get the call heard if you're calling a hold, so he did totally the right thing. Not something you whisper ;)
(Wouldn't it be a great job title to be called the "HOLD HOLD HOLD" guy too? ;) Believe he actually is the RSO).
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24 hour turnaround - per ULA release:
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (May 6, 2001) – The launch of an Atlas V carrying the Air Force’s Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) GEO-1 payload was scrubbed today due to weather. Flight rules associated with cumulus clouds were in violation of the launch criteria.
The Atlas V vehicle and SBIRS are safe and secure at this time. The launch is rescheduled for Saturday, May 7 from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. The opening of the launch window is 2:10 p.m. EDT and extends until 2:50 p.m. The forecast for May 7 shows a 90 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for the launch tomorrow.
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24 hour turnaround - per ULA release:
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (May 6, 2001) – The launch of an Atlas V carrying the Air Force’s Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) GEO-1 payload was scrubbed today due to weather. Flight rules associated with cumulus clouds were in violation of the launch criteria.
The Atlas V vehicle and SBIRS are safe and secure at this time. The launch is rescheduled for Saturday, May 7 from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. The opening of the launch window is 2:10 p.m. EDT and extends until 2:50 p.m. The forecast for May 7 shows a 90 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for the launch tomorrow.
Thank you.
We were there. Met a group of local Space geeks with ham radio equipment. Truly great guys, very helpful, knowledgeable and nice.
Weather looked very uncertain plus there was quite some wind sheer at our viewing point nearby Port Canaveral.
I hope I will be able to go back tomorrow. I would really like to see the Atlas take-off.
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Realigned for the second attempt.
Re-post of the launch/mission article - by William Graham:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/05/live-atlas-v-launch-with-sbirs-geo1/
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ULA:
Everything is progressing well and the team is not working any technical issues at this time for the launch of the SBIRS payload for the United States Air Force at 2:10 p.m. this afternoon.
The forecast continues to show a 90 percent chance of acceptable weather for launch.
The broadcast will begin at 1:50 p.m. and will be simulcast at http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml.
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Latest weather briefing: still 10% POV, only unusual item is reduced (5 mile) visibility from smoke coming across Florida due to brush fires.
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Pad is clear of personnel.
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T-2 hours and holding (standard pre-cryo hold)
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Looking more optimistic on the weather? (As much as I do enjoy watching/listening to an interesting window :))
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T-2 hours and counting.
Edit: Only 10% chance of no go today. Crystal clear, no clouds, slightly smoky due to the brush fires in SW Florida.
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Not much excitement in the weather world...
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L-60 minutes.
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ULA:
At L-1 hour, the launch team is not working any technical issues at this time. Weather continues to remain very favorable with a 90 percent chance of acceptable weather at the launch time of 2:10 p.m. this afternoon. The broadcast will begin at 1:50 p.m. and will be simulcast at http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml.
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Had no way to get back to Port Canaveral today. Was there yesterday.
From where I am now near MCO I doubt I will be able to see/hear Atlas due to the far distance. Beautiful weather I don't see what could keep them from flying today other than going technical.
Good luck Atlas and good launch today. I hope all will go for the better.
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You should be able to see it from MCO pretty easily if the sky is clear.
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L-30 minutes.
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Webcast starting.
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T-9 minutes. BIH at T-4 minutes.
Manual screenshot nonsense again, so will take any help with shots.
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Weather briefing was zero chance of violation.
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Coming up on the Built In Hold.
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T-4 minutes and holding for 10 minutes.
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L-10 minutes.
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Polling to come out of the hold shortly.
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Final Polling Happening Now
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Polling - All GO
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L-6 minutes. Two minutes until they come out of the BIH.
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T-4 minutes and COUNTING.
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Securing LO2 topping.
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T-2 minutes
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Vehicle on internal power.
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Securing LH2. At flight pressure.
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T-60 seconds.
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Stable at Step 3.
GO Atlas! GO Centaur!
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LAUNCH!!
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Pitch and Roll program in.
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MaxQ
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Sexy:
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5G throttling.
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MECO
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Staging. 1-2 sep. Second stage ignition
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Shame they cut away during the best bits of the rocket cam. :(
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Fairing Jettison
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Gah, such lovely onboard video and yet they keep switching back to a fuzzy long range tracker and CGI graphics...
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Wow, footage of staging was spectacular!
Also nice to see pads 39A and 39B from "Atlas cam" early in the flight.
Way to look ULA!
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Big boxy bird heading downrange.
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Great pictures - thank you.
Was outside at said time and looking in the right direction but did not see Atlas.
Happy about launch success.
Congratulations!
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It seemed they went away from the "best parts" deliberately--right at the most dynamic times. Still, pretty awesome!
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wow.
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13,800 mph.
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Wow, footage of staging was spectacular!
Also nice to see pads 39A and 39B from "Atlas cam" early in the flight.
Way to look ULA!
I Agree!
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Four minutes in the first burn remaining.
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When I grow up, I want to be Marty Malinowski ;D
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LOL!
...and thanks All for posting the screen-shots!
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Shutdown. 8 min coast phase.
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Heh. Epic anti-North Korea and Iran promo video :)
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The one time you don't want crappy resolution...*cough*
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Coming up on the second burn.
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Nice! Launch viewing #1 in the bag for this trip. :) I watched the launch from Jetty Park so it wasn't the most spectacular view, but it was cool anyway. Let's hope launch viewing #2 happens in a week and a bit...
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Up and burning for just under 4 mins.
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Hugging the west coast of Africa. Coming up on MECO.
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MECO!
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15 minute coast phase to S/C Sep.
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Swinging around.
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Congratulations to the ULA and SBIRS team. Great work!
VR
TPIS
RE327
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Live telemetry all the way .. marvelous technical achievement!
--- CHAS
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Lockheed promo video showing those naughty North Koreans up to no good :)
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Lt. Del Rosario? said: "dawn of a new era in overhead persistent infrared surveillance that will greatly improve national security"
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Boom! Have some of that! ;)
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Seven minutes to go.
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Already past Africa
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Clapping: spacecraft separation
"Go Big Red!"
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S/C Sep!
Congrats to all involved.
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Another launch shot to conclude coverage.
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Excellent! Congrats to ULA and all teams involved!
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And that's the way it's done.. lookout bad guys, you can run but you can't hide...
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Was anyone able to record the whole broadcast? That was excellent!
Way to go ULA & USAF!
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Was anyone able to record the whole broadcast? That was excellent!
Way to go ULA & USAF!
No, it was webcast in flash. Even all the screenshots are from hitting print screen, paste into MS Paint, crop, save, upload each time, ugg.
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Nice job Chris, like your rolling commentaries during the flight
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Was anyone able to record the whole broadcast? That was excellent!
Way to go ULA & USAF!
I recorded around L-5m to the end of the broadcast.
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United Launch Alliance Marks 50th Successful Launch by Delivering the
Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) Satellite to Orbit for the U.S. Air Force
Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., (May 7, 2011) - A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) satellite for the United States Air Force lifted off from Space Launch Complex-41 here at 2:10 p.m. EDT today. This marks the 50th successful launch for ULA since the company was formed in December 2006.
"With this launch, ULA continues to demonstrate its commitment to 100 percent mission success,” said Michael Gass, ULA President and CEO. “This milestone is a testament to the dedicated employees that for every mission deliver excellence, best value and continuous improvement to our customers.”
This mission was launched aboard an Atlas V 401 vehicle configuration, which includes a 4-meter diameter payload fairing. The booster for this mission was powered by the RD AMROSS RD-180 engine and the Centaur upper stage was powered by a single Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne RL-10A engine.
"This is a very important day for our customers and for our nation,” said Jim Sponnick, ULA vice president, Mission Operations. “The ULA team is extremely proud to have served with this strong government and industry team in successfully launching the SBIRS GEO-1 satellite on its critical mission.”
SBIRS is a consolidated system intended to meet United States infrared space surveillance needs for decades to come. The SBIRS program addresses critical warfighter needs in the areas of missile warning, missile defense and battlespace characterization.
ULA's next launch is the Delta II Aquarius mission currently scheduled for June 9, 2011 from Space Launch Complex-3 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
ULA program management, engineering, test and mission support functions are headquartered in Denver, Colo. Manufacturing, assembly and integration operations are located at Decatur, Ala., Harlingen, Texas, San Diego, Calif. Launch operations are located at Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., and Vandenberg AFB, Calif.
For more information on the ULA joint venture, visit the ULA Web site at www.ulalaunch.com, or call the ULA Launch Hotline at 1-877-ULA-4321 (852-4321).
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Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (May 7, 2011) – A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket blasts off from Space Launch Complex-41 at 2:10 p.m. EDT with the Air Force’s Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) GEO-1 payload. This marks the 50th successful launch for ULA since the company was formed in December 2006. SBIRS is designed to provide global, overhead, persistent, infrared surveillance capability to meet 21st century demands in mission areas including missile warning, missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness.
Photo by Pat Corkery, United Launch Alliance.
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Nice job Chris, like your rolling commentaries during the flight
Cheers Tim :)
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Any chance You can upload that Video Mappera?
I too would like to say thanks to Chris and many others who post on this website.
I am a lurker but i would be lost without You's! :)
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Any chance You can upload that Video Mappera?
I too would like to say thanks to Chris and many others who post on this website.
I am a lurker but i would be lost without You's! :)
Certainly. :)
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Any chance You can upload that Video Mappera?
I too would like to say thanks to Chris and many others who post on this website.
I am a lurker but i would be lost without You's! :)
*Tips hat* Thanks :)
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LOCKHEED MARTIN-BUILT NEXT GENERATION MISSILE WARNING SATELLITE LAUNCHED SUCCESSFULLY
National Space Asset to Bolster Missile Warning Capabilities
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla., May 7th, 2011 – The first Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous (GEO-1) spacecraft, built by Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT - News) for the U.S. Air Force, was successfully launched today at 2:10 p.m. EDT from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket. SBIRS GEO-1 is the most technologically advanced military infrared satellite ever developed and will deliver vastly improved missile warning capabilities for the nation while simultaneously improving the Nation's missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness mission areas.
"Today's successful launch is a tribute to the hard work, dedication and unmatched expertise of the entire government and industry SBIRS team. I am proud of the women and men who have worked on this spacecraft, and am confident the nation will be proud of its performance on orbit," said Brig Gen (select) Roger W. Teague, the U.S. Air Force's Infrared Space Systems Directorate director. "SBIRS GEO-1 represents the dawn of a new era in overhead persistent infrared surveillance that will greatly improve our national security for years to come."
SBIRS GEO-1 includes highly sophisticated scanning and staring sensors that will deliver improved infrared sensitivity and a reduction in area revisit times over the current constellation. The scanning sensor will provide a wide area surveillance of missile launches and natural phenomena across the earth, while the staring sensor will be used to observe smaller areas of interest with superior sensitivity. These dual independent sensors will enhance early warning of missile launches around the globe, support the nation's ballistic missile defense system, greatly expand our technical intelligence gathering capability, and bolster situational awareness for warfighters on the battlefield.
"We understand the importance of the SBIRS mission and are proud to partner with the U.S. Air Force on this critical program," said Jeff Smith, Lockheed Martin's vice president and SBIRS program director. "Throughout the development of this first-of-its-kind satellite, our SBIRS team has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to operational excellence. As a result, we are confident SBIRS GEO-1 will deliver unprecedented, global, persistent, taskable infrared surveillance capabilities to the warfighter, nation and our allies for years to come."
The SBIRS team is led by the Infrared Space Systems Directorate at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center. Lockheed Martin is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman as the payload integrator. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.
"The launch of SBIRS GEO-1 heralds a new era for missile warning and other missions enabled by overhead persistent infrared sensors," said Steve Toner, Northrop Grumman's vice president of OPIR and Azusa Programs. "We can't wait to turn it on. These sensors are highly capable, and we know that they will be of great value to our warfighters, our nation, and our allies."
Lockheed Martin's original SBIRS contract includes HEO payloads, two geosynchronous orbit (GEO) satellites, as well as ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data. The team is also under a follow-on production contract to deliver additional HEO payloads and the third and fourth GEO satellites, and associated ground modifications.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 126,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation's 2010 sales from continuing operations were $45.8 billion.
###
Note to Editors:
SBIRS b-roll footage and high-resolution images are available for download at www.lockheedmartin.com/sbirs
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Any chance You can upload that Video Mappera?
I too would like to say thanks to Chris and many others who post on this website.
I am a lurker but i would be lost without You's! :)
Certainly. :)
Cheers for that! :) that Atlas 5 never cease's to to behave,agree with those who sent congrats to ULA.
BTW Chris do You ever sleep? ;D
woops and i see more posts were added since my first on here,not used to posting on the site so finding my way.
Tips hat back at Chris for the most trusted site for accurate information on the web!
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Thanks for the coverage everyone.
Congrats ULA and the teams who made it happen.
Let's hope for a successful checkout on orbit.
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Nothing yet on the ULA homesite,but the first minute of launch is at link below.
http://www.cfnews13.com/video?clip=http://static.cfnews13.com/newsvideo/cfn/rocketlaunch0507.flv&vtitle=Watch Atlas V rocket launch
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Uploaded from T-5m ish to the end of the broadcast here:
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=VMNSJTDM
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Thank you Mapperuo, excellent quality and so great because I missed the first ten minutes into the flight working on the honey-do list outside.
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what's this ?
Lightening tower...
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thanks
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Any idea of the exact launch time 1810:XX.XXX?
Thanks!
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Launch highlights video on here: http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/News.shtml#/70/
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Nation's New Missile Warning Satellite Delivers First Infrared Imagery
Date(s): 7-Jul-2011 2:28 PM
SBIRS GEO-1 Satellite to Provide a Quantum Leap in Infrared Surveillance Capabilities
DENVER, July 7, 2011
The first Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT)-built Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous (GEO-1) spacecraft beamed down its first infrared image on June 21 to the SBIRS ground station. Following its May 7 launch, the satellite is performing as expected, and is now undergoing early orbit testing.
The U.S. Air Force's SBIRS GEO-1 spacecraft is the most technologically advanced military infrared satellite ever developed. The system will enhance the military's ability to detect missile launches around the globe, support the nation's ballistic missile defense system, greatly expand technical intelligence gathering capability, and bolster situational awareness for warfighters on the battlefield.
The satellite includes highly sophisticated scanning and staring sensors that deliver improved infrared sensitivity and a reduction in area revisit times over the current constellation. The scanning sensor will provide a wide area surveillance of missile launches and natural phenomena across the earth, while the staring sensor will be used to observe smaller areas of interest with superior sensitivity.
"We are tremendously proud of Team SBIRS for their superb efforts to initialize the Air Force's newest, most capable infrared payload," said Col. Mike Noble, Deputy Director of the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center's Infrared Space Systems Directorate. "This is another important milestone for the SBIRS' Air Force and industry team. Successful payload activation is a major step toward fielding the all-new GEO capabilities for the nation and joint warfighters."
After launch, the U.S. Air Force/Lockheed Martin SBIRS ground team executed a series of six Liquid Apogee Engine (LAE) burns to propel the spacecraft to its geosynchronous orbital slot. The team then deployed the satellite's solar arrays, light shade and antenna wing assemblies. Most recently, the team opened the satellite's payload doors and activated its sophisticated infrared sensors to begin the start of early orbit calibration and testing.
"SBIRS GEO-1 is performing flawlessly thus far, and the first image sent from the satellite is outstanding," said Jeff Smith, vice president of Lockheed Martin's Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) mission area. "We are focused on executing an efficient and thorough checkout of the spacecraft and ultimately delivering unprecedented infrared surveillance capabilities to our nation."
The SBIRS team is led by the Infrared Space Systems Directorate at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center. Lockheed Martin is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman as the payload integrator. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.
Lockheed Martin's original SBIRS contract includes HEO payloads, two geosynchronous orbit (GEO) satellites, as well as ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data. The team is also under a follow-on production contract to deliver additional HEO payloads and the third and fourth GEO satellites, and associated ground modifications.