Author Topic: LIVE: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015  (Read 102914 times)

Offline Targeteer

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LIVE: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« on: 07/11/2014 06:27 pm »
Feature article - by William Graham:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2015/01/ula-atlas-v-third-muos-spacecraft/

Launch Coverage Sponsored by ATK:



http://www.lockheedmartin.com/us/news/press-releases/2014/july/0710-ss-muos.html


Lockheed Martin MUOS Satellite Enters Final Testing Preparing For January Launch

SUNNYVALE, Calif., July 10, 2014 – Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] has successfully completed environmental testing of the U.S. Navy’s third Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite. It recently cleared thermal vacuum trials, which validate performance in simulated space conditions, and the satellite is now in final check out.

“We are committed to quality, and our rigorous environmental testing regimen ensures this system is ready for the harsh environments of space,” said Iris Bombelyn, vice president of Narrowband Communications at Lockheed Martin. “It’s important to check out every aspect of the satellite at this stage so we can prepare it for service. We are on track for delivering the third MUOS satellite to the Navy this year.”

The Navy plans to launch this addition to the constellation in January 2015.

The MUOS satellite was stressed at extreme hot and cold temperatures in a vacuum at Lockheed Martin’s Dual Entry Large Thermal Altitude chamber, simulating the environments the satellite will experience throughout its mission life.

The satellites are equipped with a wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA) payload that leverages commercial cell phone technology. MUOS provides a 10-fold increase in communications capacity compared to the current legacy Ultra High Frequency (UHF) system. Additionally, the WCDMA payload gives users the advantage of high-speed data and priority access that legacy systems did not.
« Last Edit: 01/20/2015 02:06 pm by Chris Bergin »
Best quote heard during an inspection, "I was unaware that I was the only one who was aware."

Offline Targeteer

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Re: Atlas V 551 MUOS-3 January 2015
« Reply #1 on: 11/07/2014 03:26 am »
Is this one of the C-5C aircraft?  Are the mods to allow the "outsized" DOD payloads visible from the outside?

http://www.lockheedmartin.com/us/news/press-releases/2014/november/u-s-navy-and-lockheedmartindeliverthirdmuossecurecommunicationss.html

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Nov. 6, 2014 – The U.S. Navy and Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] have delivered the third Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) spacecraft to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, where it will be prepared for a January 2015 liftoff aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket.

MUOS operates like a smart phone cell tower in the sky, vastly improving current secure mobile satellite communications for warfighters on the move. For the first time, MUOS Wideband Code Division Multiple Access technology users will have beyond-line-of-sight capability to transmit and receive voice and data using an Internet Protocol-based system.

“The delivery of MUOS-3 is an important step toward enabling our warfighters to be able to pick up the phone to seamlessly call or transfer data anywhere around the world,” said Iris Bombelyn, vice president of Narrowband Communications at Lockheed Martin. “With the launch of the third satellite in the constellation, to be followed later in 2015 by the fourth, MUOS will be in place to provide pole-to-pole and global, secure communications for the warfighter.”

MUOS-3’s safe transport to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station began from Lockheed Martin’s Sunnyvale, California, facility to nearby Moffett Federal Airfield. There, the 60th Air Mobility Wing of Travis Air Force Base loaded the satellite aboard a C-5 aircraft for final shipment on Nov. 5.

Prior to launch, Lockheed Martin engineers and technicians at the Cape will complete post shipment testing. Lockheed Martin will fuel the satellite’s propulsion system and the spacecraft will be encapsulated inside the launch vehicle’s payload fairing. The encapsulated spacecraft will then be integrated on top of an Atlas V launch vehicle for final integrated testing and closeout preparations for launch.

MUOS-2 was launched and handed over to the Navy for operations in 2013. MUOS-1 was launched and became operational in 2012. These two on-orbit MUOS satellites already are demonstrating new capabilities, especially in the Arctic, an area previously beyond the coverage of UHF satellites and growing in interest for transportation and natural resources exploration above 65 degrees north latitude. In the past year MUOS successfully connected users near the Arctic poles during independent testing by Lockheed Martin -- and their industry partners General Dynamics, Rockwell Collins and Harris -- as well as during the U.S. Navy’s 2014 Ice Exercise (ICEX) and the U.S. Coast Guard’s Arctic Shield 2014.

Lockheed Martin Space Systems, Sunnyvale, California, is the MUOS prime contractor and system integrator. The Navy's Program Executive Office for Space Systems and its Communications Satellite Program Office, San Diego, California, are responsible for the MUOS program.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 113,000 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 net sales for 2013 were $45.4 billion.
« Last Edit: 11/07/2014 03:28 am by Targeteer »
Best quote heard during an inspection, "I was unaware that I was the only one who was aware."

Offline russianhalo117

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Re: Atlas V 551 MUOS-3 January 2015
« Reply #2 on: 11/07/2014 03:43 am »
Is this one of the C-5C aircraft?  Are the mods to allow the "outsized" DOD payloads visible from the outside?

Yes its a C-5C SCM, but the identifying info on the aircraft and SV container have been blurred out given the file name. It is one of two C-5C Space Cargo Modified (SCM) Galaxy aircraft. Only 68-0216 and 68-0213 SCM Galaxy's support Space Container Transportation System (SCTS) and they belong to the 60th AW.

Yes you can see some of the mods.

LINK http://www.travis.af.mil/
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/c-5c.htm
« Last Edit: 11/07/2014 04:02 am by russianhalo117 »

Offline Jim

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Re: Atlas V 551 MUOS-3 January 2015
« Reply #3 on: 11/07/2014 01:51 pm »

Yes its a C-5C SCM, but the identifying info on the aircraft and SV container have been blurred out given the file name. It is one of two C-5C Space Cargo Modified (SCM) Galaxy aircraft. Only 68-0216 and 68-0213 SCM Galaxy's support Space Container Transportation System (SCTS) and they belong to the 60th AW.


Just wanted to point out that that container is not the SCTS.  Many other containers have been developed and use the C-5C's.

Offline robertross

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Re: Atlas V 551 MUOS-3 January 2015
« Reply #4 on: 11/19/2014 06:02 pm »

Offline jacqmans

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Re: Atlas V 551 MUOS-3 January 2015
« Reply #5 on: 12/17/2014 11:04 am »

Atlas V to Launch the Third Mobile User Objective System (MUOS-3)

Atlas V MUOS-3 Mission ArtworkRocket/Payload: A United Launch Alliance Atlas V 551 will launch the Navy’s third Mobile User Objective System (MUOS-3) satellite.

Date/Site/Launch Time: Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2015, from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.

Mission Description: The Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) is a next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system designed to significantly improve ground communications for U.S. forces on the move.

MUOS will provide military users 10 times more communications capability over existing systems, including simultaneous voice, video and data, leveraging 3G mobile communications technology.

Launch Notes: MUOS-3 will mark United Launch Alliance’s first launch of 2015, and the 52nd Atlas V since the vehicle’s inaugural launch in 2002. MUOS-1 and MUOS-2 also launched on an Atlas V 551: MUOS-1 launched Feb. 24, 2012, and MUOS-2 launched July 19, 2013.

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.
Jacques :-)

Offline jacqmans

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Re: Atlas V 551 MUOS-3 January 2015
« Reply #6 on: 12/20/2014 09:55 am »
Lockheed Martin-Built MUOS-3 Secure Communications Satellite Encapsulated In Launch Vehicle Fairing

Date: 19-Dec-2014 12:17 PM

Satellite Team Ready for January 20 Launch

CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla., Dec. 19, 2014 - The third Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite built by Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] for the U.S. Navy was encapsulated into its payload fairing Dec. 18. It is scheduled to launch Jan. 20 aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket.

MUOS operates like a smart phone network in the sky, vastly improving current secure mobile satellite communications for warfighters on the move. Unlike previous systems, MUOS provides users an on-demand, beyond-line-of-sight capability to transmit and receive high-quality, prioritized voice and mission data, on a high-speed Internet Protocol-based system.

"MUOS is a game changer in communications for our warfighters and will allow them to have high-fidelity voice conversations, networked team calls and data exchange, including video, with anyone connected to a secure terminal around the world," said Iris Bombelyn, vice president of Narrowband Communications at Lockheed Martin. "The launch of MUOS-3 will increase our network coverage to about three-quarters of the globe."

Replacing the legacy Ultra High Frequency (UHF) Follow-On system, MUOS satellites have two payloads to ensure UHF narrowband communications accessibility and new capabilities. MUOS' advanced Wideband Code Division Access (WCDMA) payload incorporates commercial technology and a new waveform to provide users priority-based capacity. Once fully operational, MUOS will provide comparatively 16 times the capacity of the legacy system. More than 50,000 terminals in the field today can be retro-fitted with WCDMA.

MUOS is expected to provide warfighters global coverage before the end of 2015. MUOS-1 and MUOS-2, launched respectively in 2012 and 2013, are already operational and providing high-quality voice communications. MUOS-4 is on track to launch later in the year. The fourth and final required MUOS ground station also is expected to be operational early next year.
Jacques :-)

Offline mmp121

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Re: Atlas V 551 MUOS-3 January 2015
« Reply #7 on: 12/22/2014 03:21 am »
Lockheed Martin-Built MUOS-3 Secure Communications Satellite Encapsulated In Launch Vehicle Fairing

Date: 19-Dec-2014 12:17 PM

Satellite Team Ready for January 20 Launch

CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla., Dec. 19, 2014 - The third Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite built by Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] for the U.S. Navy was encapsulated into its payload fairing Dec. 18. It is scheduled to launch Jan. 20 aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket.

MUOS operates like a smart phone network in the sky, vastly improving current secure mobile satellite communications for warfighters on the move. Unlike previous systems, MUOS provides users an on-demand, beyond-line-of-sight capability to transmit and receive high-quality, prioritized voice and mission data, on a high-speed Internet Protocol-based system.

"MUOS is a game changer in communications for our warfighters and will allow them to have high-fidelity voice conversations, networked team calls and data exchange, including video, with anyone connected to a secure terminal around the world," said Iris Bombelyn, vice president of Narrowband Communications at Lockheed Martin. "The launch of MUOS-3 will increase our network coverage to about three-quarters of the globe."

Replacing the legacy Ultra High Frequency (UHF) Follow-On system, MUOS satellites have two payloads to ensure UHF narrowband communications accessibility and new capabilities. MUOS' advanced Wideband Code Division Access (WCDMA) payload incorporates commercial technology and a new waveform to provide users priority-based capacity. Once fully operational, MUOS will provide comparatively 16 times the capacity of the legacy system. More than 50,000 terminals in the field today can be retro-fitted with WCDMA.

MUOS is expected to provide warfighters global coverage before the end of 2015. MUOS-1 and MUOS-2, launched respectively in 2012 and 2013, are already operational and providing high-quality voice communications. MUOS-4 is on track to launch later in the year. The fourth and final required MUOS ground station also is expected to be operational early next year.

http://www.lockheedmartin.com/us/news/press-releases/2014/december/muos-ss-12-19.html


Offline Galactic Penguin SST

Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #8 on: 01/10/2015 12:42 pm »
Mission booklet: http://www.ulalaunch.com/uploads/docs/Mission_Booklets/AV/av_muos3_mob.pdf

I think the start of launch window has slightly shifted to 7:43 pm Eastern / 00:43 UTC.
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Offline jacqmans

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Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #9 on: 01/16/2015 07:18 am »
Experience the thunderous roar of a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket on January 20, as it lifts off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station carrying the MUOS-3 satellite. MUOS-3, or Mobile User Objective System, is the third in a series of U.S. Navy next-generation satellite communications systems. Learn more about the mission.  Lear

Premium Launch Viewing Locations

Experience this launch from premium launch viewing locations, LC-39 Observation Gantry and the Apollo/Saturn V Center located within the secured areas of Kennedy Space Center.

LC-39 Observation Gantry: This premium viewing location offers the closest view of the rocket on the launch pad and during lift off. Just 2.3 miles away from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, you can feel the force of the launch and hear the roar of the engines. This area features lawn and bleacher seating and live launch commentary. Call 855.475.8415 now  and purchase your tickets!

LC-39 Observation Gantry Package Includes: Launch transportation, a light snack and a souvenir t-shirt. Launch Transportation Tickets to the LC-39 Observation Gantry are available for $49 plus tax in addition to admission, multiday pass or annual pass.

Apollo/Saturn V Center: This special viewing location is 5.4 miles from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station launch pad. The viewing area features an open lawn and bleacher section overlooking the scenic Banana River and live launch commentary. Launch Transportation Tickets to Apollo/Saturn V Center are available for $20 in addition to daily admission, multiday pass or annual pass.

Purchase your launch viewing tickets online today!
https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/?keyword=Rocket%20Launch
Jacques :-)

Offline Chris Bergin

Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #10 on: 01/16/2015 08:47 pm »
ULA:

The ULA Launch Readiness Review was completed today and everything is moving forward for the launch of an Atlas V rocket carrying the MUOS-3 payload for the U.S. Navy. The mission is set to lift off on Tuesday, Jan. 20 from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 7:43 p.m. EST. Today’s L-4 forecast shows a 60 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for launch. Atlas V MUOS-3 mission booklet  and mission art attached.

ALL TIMES EASTERN STANDARD TIME

 

LAUNCH – JANUARY 20, 2015                                       

 

BARS AND TONE – 6:53 P.M.

PROGRAM START – 7:23 P.M.

LAUNCH WINDOW – 7:43 – 8:27 P.M.
« Last Edit: 01/16/2015 08:48 pm by Chris Bergin »
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Online catdlr

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Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #11 on: 01/16/2015 10:26 pm »
Atlas V MUOS-3 Encapsulation

Published on Jan 16, 2015
In preparation for mate to a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, the U.S. Navy's third Mobile User Objective System (MUOS-3) satellite is encapsulated inside a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 5-meter diameter payload fairing.

It's Tony De La Rosa, ...I don't create this stuff, I just report it.

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Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #12 on: 01/16/2015 10:28 pm »
Atlas V MUOS-3 Encapsulated Payload Mate

Published on Jan 16, 2015
The U.S. Navy's third Mobile User Objective System (MUOS-3) satellite, encapsulated inside a 5-meter diameter payload fairing, is mated to a United Launch Alliance Atlas V booster in preparation for launch from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.

It's Tony De La Rosa, ...I don't create this stuff, I just report it.

Offline Galactic Penguin SST

Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #13 on: 01/18/2015 12:57 am »
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Offline baldusi

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Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #14 on: 01/18/2015 05:39 pm »
Is that the medium 5m fairing (the Short + 1 extension?).

Offline russianhalo117

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Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #15 on: 01/18/2015 07:16 pm »
Is that the medium 5m fairing (the Short + 1 extension?).
Has an extension plug at the bottom
« Last Edit: 01/19/2015 05:36 am by Galactic Penguin SST »

Offline Prober

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Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #16 on: 01/18/2015 11:01 pm »
any word on the weather, is it holding up?

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Offline Lee Jay

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Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #17 on: 01/18/2015 11:24 pm »
http://www.patrick.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-070716-027.pdf

Vehicle: Atlas V AV-052 MUOS-3
Issued: 18 January 2014/1300Z (0800 EST)
Valid: 21 January / During Window

Launch day overall probability of violating weather constraints: 30% Primary concern(s): Thick Clouds

24-hour delay overall probability of violating weather constraints 30% Primary concern(s): Cumulus Clouds

I see even the 45th isn't immune to the problem of remembering it's a new year!

Offline jacqmans

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Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #18 on: 01/19/2015 03:47 pm »
Atlas on its way to the pad.....
(Photo: SpaceflightNow)
Jacques :-)

Offline Galactic Penguin SST

Re: Atlas V 551 - MUOS-3 - January 20/21, 2015
« Reply #19 on: 01/20/2015 12:20 am »
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