STSS Demo Satellites Complete Acoustic Tests

摘要

Two missile-tracking demonstration satellites have completed acoustic testing at the facilities of prime contractor Northrop Grumman Space Technology in Redondo Beach, Calif., the company said in an Aug. 28 press release. The satellites are precursors to the U.S. Missile Defense Agency's proposed Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS), which would track ballistic missiles as they coast through space after their motors burn out. Such a system, if deployed, would be an important cueing tool for missile defense radars and interceptors. During the test, the demonstration satellites were placed in their launch configuration and subjected to the maximum noise and vibration levels they are likely to experience during launch. The satellites are slated to launch together later this year aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta 2 rocket.