Another Junk To Monitor Space Junk

The Space-Based Space Surveillance (SBSS) satellite was scheduled to launch on July 8, but it was grounded by concerns about software in the Minotaur IV rocket and a problem in the rocket’s electronics.

Officials said there were no problems in the satellite itself.

It’s designed to give the Air Force its first full-time, space-based surveillance of satellites and debris in Earth’s orbit. It monitors them for possible collisions.

“Every day, threats to our nation’s valuable satellites and space platforms are growing,” said Col. J.R. Jordan, vice commander of the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center’s Space Superiority Systems Wing. “SBSS will revolutionize our ability to find and monitor objects that could harm the space assets we depend on for security, communications, weather forecasting and many other essential services.”

Launch will be at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. A command center at Schriever Air Force Base, Colo., will oversee day-to-day operations once in orbit.

Filed Under: Technology & Science