Air Force activates two space tracking satellites

The Air Force has activated two space-based tracking satellites for the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program.

GSSAP 3 and 4 were launched into orbit on Aug. 19, 2016, and activated by the 1st Space Operations Squadron at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, on Sept. 12 of this year.

The first two GSSAP satellites were launched in 2015.

“This addition to GSSAP is vital to expand 1 SOPS’s space-based space situational awareness mission,” according to the Air Force. “It not only provides a significant improvement in space object characterization, but also in detecting threats. Because of its near-geosynchronous orbit, it has a clear and distinct vantage point to avoid the weather interruptions that can limit ground-based space surveillance systems.”

More In Satellites

New US Space Force jammers aim to disrupt China’s SATCOM signals

The Remote Modular Terminals, which disrupt adversary satellites by "yelling in their ear," as one official put it, are cleared for initial fielding,

Space Force must grow to counter China and Russia, lawmaker says

House Armed Services Chairman Mike Rogers, R-Ala., said the service is not sized to meet increasing threats from China and Russia.

SpaceX launches rapid response GPS mission

The effort, dubbed Rapid Response Trailblazer, was meant to demonstrate the ability to quickly plan and launch a mission in around six months.

Space Command strategy aims to boost commercial role in operations

The updated strategy, approved in November, focuses on SPACECOM’s core tasks and how commercial space capabilities fit within those areas.

ULA eyes annual mods to turn rocket stage into space interceptor

The fast-moving vehicle would be highly maneuverable and could be used to tow satellites or for counterspace missions, ULA CEO Tory Bruno told reporters.