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ЦитироватьSept. 18    Delta 2  •  STSS Demo
Launch window: 1200-1300 GMT (8:00-9:00 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-17B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida

The United Launch Alliance Delta 2 rocket will launch the Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) technology demonstration mission for the Missile Defense Agency. NASA will oversee the launch. The rocket will fly in the 7920 vehicle configuration. Delayed from Nov. 25, 2007, April, July 16, Nov. 1, Nov. 20, 2008, Jan. 23, June, July 29 and Sept. 15. [Sept. 8]

http://spacefellowship.com/2009/09/05/expendable-launch-vehicle-status-report-41/

ЦитироватьExpendable Launch Vehicle Status Report
Published By Klaus SchmidtOn: 05 September 2009 10:45 AM CEST

(NASA) – Mission: Space Tracking and Surveillance System – Demonstrators Program (STSS-Demo)
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7920-10
Launch Pad: Launch Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Date: No Earlier Than Sept. 17, 2009
Launch Window: 8 – 9 p.m. EDT

Prelaunch preparations at Pad 17B are going well and are on schedule. The Flight Program Verification took place Friday. This is an integrated electrical and mechanical test of the Delta II together with the STSS Demo payload that includes both countdown and flight event milestones.

The next major activity is the installation of the payload fairing around the STSS spacecraft next week on Sept. 9.

(http://s45.radikal.ru/i110/0909/5b/458a7f8582b2.jpg)

У меня такое чувство что эти два спутника это наконец доделаный российско-американский проект, как он там назывался? Помните ещё хруники участвовали?

Как программа по обнаружению МБР может быть совместной разработкой с супостатом?

Элементарно. Забыли уже как пускали за бабло натовские радары с Плесецка? Но понятие не имею, о чем говорит Старый в конкретно этом случае...

ЦитироватьЭлементарно. Забыли уже как пускали за бабло натовские радары с Плесецка? Но понятие не имею, о чем говорит Старый в конкретно этом случае...

Одно дело - пусковая услуга (про натовские радары не помню, про Sar-Lupe - помню; хотя ФРГ входит в НАТО...) и совсем другое - совместное создание спутника. Сразу становится необходим обмен информацией, в т. ч. секретной.

Ну, вы же не думаете, что снимки SAR-Lupe идут в семейный альбом г-жи Меркель? Это вклад Германии в общую систему разведки НАТО, в обмен на которые она получает оптические снимки от Франции, США, и т.д. А насчет "обмена информацией", так для этой программы MDA, он нужен амам только односторонний - какая именно информация им нужна для успеха SSTS - предлагаю догадаться.

ЦитироватьНу, вы же не думаете, что снимки SAR-Lupe идут в семейный альбом г-жи Меркель? Это вклад Германии в общую систему разведки НАТО, в обмен на которые она получает оптические снимки от Франции, США, и т.д. А

Я почему-то думал, что запускали что-то кроме Лупы.

Цитироватьнасчет "обмена информацией", так для этой программы MDA, он нужен амам только односторонний - какая именно информация им нужна для успеха SSTS - предлагаю догадаться.

Даже предположить не могу, что американцам нужно от нас в спутниковых технологиях :(

Причем тут спутниковые технологии? На картинке наверху написаны задачи системы.

ЦитироватьУ меня такое чувство что эти два спутника это наконец доделаный российско-американский проект, как он там назывался? Помните ещё хруники участвовали?

RAMOS он назывался. Породили его в 1992-м президенты Клинтон и Ельцин. Умер не родясь где-то в 2004-2005 году по инициативе американской стороны.

http://www.space.com/businesstechnology/technology/us_russia_satellite_011024-1.html
http://www.cdi.org/missile-defense/ramos.cfm
http://www.lenta.ru/russia/2004/02/13/ramos/
http://www.sdl.usu.edu/programs/ramos-environmental-obj-presentation.pdf

Т.е. это не то. Хотя в целом сходство есть.

ЦитироватьRAMOS он назывался.

О!

ЦитироватьПородили его в 1992-м президенты Клинтон и Ельцин. Умер не родясь где-то в 2004-2005 году по инициативе американской стороны.

Так может он умер как совместный, и собственно из-за того что наши надеялись реализовать свою часть на американские деньги?
 А американцы решили не терять 10-летние наработки и довели проект до реализации уже без нашего участия?

06.05.09, Ср, 12:29, Мск
Как сообщает пресс-служба ВВС США, 5 мая 2009 года ракета-носитель Delta II, стартовавшая с космодрома на базе ВВС "Ванденберг" в Калифорнии, успешно вывела на орбиту экспериментальный спутник космического эшелона системы ПРО STSS-ATRR (Space Tracking and Surveillance System Advanced Technology Risk Reduction).

Спутник STSS-ATRR предназначен для отработки технологий разведки баллистических (и, возможно, иных) целей из космоса, их классификации и дискриминации и определения параметров их траекторий.

Как взаимосвязаны между собой запущенный в мае спутник и новые STSS

ЦитироватьКак взаимосвязаны между собой запущенный в мае спутник и новые STSS

Майский -- экспериментальный КА второго поколения, сентябрьский -- штатные КА первого :-) Как-то так.

ЦитироватьRAMOS он назывался.

До 2002 года программа STSS называлась SBIRS-Low. В свою очередь SBIRS-Low была начата в 1995 году, а Россия включилась в работы по RAMOSу в 1997 году.
Вполне возможно что в STSS использовался задел RAMOSа, учитывая то, что головником по RAMOS и SBIRS-Low была лаборатория SDL. Однако еще в 2000 г. американцы отказались от идеи делать свой спутник в программе RAMOS и предложили нам сделать оба...

А он немаленький...

(http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/images/medium/2009-5053-m.jpg)

ЦитироватьА он немаленький...

Да ну! Высота одного спутника меньше чем высота перил у платформы.

Думаю, что там высота перил метра полтора.

ЦитироватьДумаю, что там высота перил метра полтора.

С чего бы это? Чтоб неудобно было работать?

Так присесть никто не мешает, а вот если упадут...

ЦитироватьТак присесть никто не мешает, а вот если упадут...

Вобщето перила везде для того чтоб не упали...

Думаю, что нужно отличать перила на которые опираются руками, это 90см и те, что для ограждения это 1,2м и выше.

Перила на балконе на 9-м этаже для чего? Чтоб опираться или чтоб не упал? А на башне Союза и Протона?

Никогда не задавался этим вопросом, у меня высота балконных перил 115см. Думаю и там не меньше 120см.

Думаю, эти фото будут нагляднее.

(http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/images/medium/2009-5049-m.jpg)

(http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/images/medium/2009-5044-m.jpg)

Эта штука называется UpRight X26N Scissor Lift

Мммм, дааа... Если мужик не двухметровый с лишним то перила 120 см, как и положено. А спутник высотой максимум метр и шириной два.

Да, на глаз где-то так.

Новерное, будет проще мерять по известным деталям, чем в мужиках-перилах:

(http://i063.radikal.ru/0909/04/bb7ab6c20b21.jpg)

ЦитироватьНоверное, будет проще мерять по известным деталям, чем в мужиках-перилах:

Вобщем по диагонали никак не больше трёх метров. А рама снизу чего, тоже летит в космос?

ЦитироватьА рама снизу чего, тоже летит в космос?

А как же. Неотделяемый переходник.

Я думал подставка...

Сабж подвинулся вправо на сутки. Теперь 20-го.

http://www.spaceflightnow.com/tracking/index.html

ЦитироватьSept. 23    Delta 2  •  STSS Demo
Launch window: 1200-1300 GMT (8:00-9:00 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-17B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida

The United Launch Alliance Delta 2 rocket will launch the Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) technology demonstration mission for the Missile Defense Agency. NASA will oversee the launch. The rocket will fly in the 7920 vehicle configuration. Delayed from Nov. 25, 2007, April, July 16, Nov. 1, Nov. 20, 2008, Jan. 23, June, July 29 and Sept. 15. Pushed back 12 hours from evening T-0 on Sept. 17. Pushed from Sept. 18 due to weather delays during pre-flight processing. Delayed from Sept. 19 to review spacecraft test data. [Sept. 18]

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9226.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9227.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9228.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9229.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9230.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9231.jpg)

http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/090919launchtimeline.html

ЦитироватьSTSS Demo launch timeline
SPACEFLIGHT NOW
T-00:00   Liftoff
The Delta 2 rocket's main engine and twin vernier steering thrusters are started moments before launch. The six ground-start strap-on solid rocket motors are ignited at T-0 to begin the mission.

T+01:03.1   Ground SRM Burnout
The six ground-start Alliant TechSystems-built solid rocket motors consume all their propellant and burn out.

T+01:05.5   Air-Lit SRM Ignition
The three remaining solid rocket motors strapped to the Delta 2 rocket's first stage are ignited.

T+01:06.0   Jettison Ground SRMs
The six spent ground-started solid rocket boosters are jettisoned in sets of three to fall into the Atlantic Ocean.

T+02:11.5   Jettison Air-Lit SRMs
Having burned out, the three spent air-started solid rocket boosters are jettisoned toward the Atlantic Ocean.

T+04:23.3   Main Engine Cutoff
After consuming its RP-1 fuel and liquid oxygen, the Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne RS-27A first stage main engine is shut down. The vernier engines cut off moments later.

T+04:31.3   Stage Separation
The Delta rocket's first stage is separated now, having completed its job. The spent stage will fall into the Atlantic Ocean.

T+04:36.8   Second Stage Ignition
With the stage jettisoned, the rocket's second stage takes over. The Aerojet AJ118-K liquid-fueled engine ignites for the first of two firings needed to place the STSS Demo satellites into the proper orbit.

T+04:41.0   Jettison Payload Fairing
The 10-foot diameter payload fairing that protected the STSS Demo satellites atop the Delta 2 during the atmospheric ascent is jettisoned is two halves.

T+10:32.3   Second Stage Cutoff 1
The second stage engine shuts down to complete its first firing of the launch. The rocket and attached STSS Demo spacecraft are now in a coast period before the second stage reignites. The orbit achieved should be 830 nautical miles at apogee, 100 miles at perigee and inclined 54.6 degrees.

T+42:30.0   Second Stage Restart
Delta's second stage engine reignites for a brief firing that will bring the initial elliptical orbit into a circular one.

T+43:37.0   Second Stage Cutoff 2
The second stage shuts down and completed the powered phase of flight. The circular orbit achieved should be 729 nautical miles high and inclined 58.00 degrees.

T+47:49.0   SV 1 Separation
The upper satellite in the stack of two Space Tracking and Surveillance System spacecraft is released into orbit.

T+55:14.0   SV 2 Separation
The lower satellite in the stack of two Space Tracking and Surveillance System spacecraft is released to complete the launch.

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9232.jpg)
http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

ЦитироватьMONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2009
Awaiting blastoff from Cape Canaveral early Wednesday is a Delta 2 rocket topped with two experimental missile-tracking satellites built to test advanced technologies for the nation's defense against enemy attacks.

The two-stage rocket is aiming for a 730-nautical-mile circular orbit inclined 58 degrees to the either side of the equator where it will deploy a pair of demonstration satellites for the Space Tracking and Surveillance System, a $1.5 billion project known as STSS Demo.

The satellites will be used by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency to test the "birth to death" tracking of missiles from launch to re-entry. NASA is lending its expertise to the oversee the Delta rocket flight and getting the satellites into space on behalf of the MDA.

Liftoff from pad 17B is targeted for 8 a.m. EDT (1200 GMT) at the opening of an hour-long window. Officials gave approval to proceed with the countdown at their Launch Readiness Review held Monday following several days of delays.

Ground crews loaded the Delta 2 rocket's second stage with a storable hydrazine propellant mixture and nitrogen tetroxide oxidizer on Sunday. The fuels will power the stage's main engine during the two firings needed to place the satellites into the planned orbit around the planet.

The pad gantry should be retracted to reveal the 12-story rocket just before midnight Tuesday. The overnight hours will be spent finishing preps ahead of starting the Terminal Countdown at 5:20 a.m. EDT launch morning.

The main question mark going into the launch attempt is the weather. Air Force meteorologists say there's a 50-50 chance clouds and coastal rain showers will interfere with the schedule.

"A tropical wave bearing the remnants of Hurricane Fred is currently over the Bahamas. The timing of this feature over the peninsula is the key forecast issue. Unfortunately, the wave has slowed its westward motion and is now forecast over our area Tuesday through Wednesday afternoon, increasing rain probability during the launch window," forecasters say.

"The main weather concern on launch day will be cumulus clouds and precipitation associated with this system.

"In the event of a launch delay, we will see gradually improving conditions as the tropical wave continues to move westward, away from the launch area."

The odds of acceptable weather on Thursday and Friday increase to 60 and 70 percent, respectively.

The STSS Demo mission has been in the works for years. Northrop Grumman built the spacecraft and was responsible for overall satellite integration, plus the ground control system. The satellites' sensors were made by Raytheon.

"The STSS Demo program represents an investment of approximately $1.5 billion in cutting edge technologies, spacecraft assembly and test, and spacecraft operations center capability," the MDA told Spaceflight Now.

The two craft, weighing nearly 5,000 pounds at launch and each having pairs of power-generating solar wings, are equipped with infrared and visible sensors to spot missile launches, track the vehicles through space and observe the entry back into the atmosphere. By working together from separate vantage points in low-Earth orbit, their imagery will combine to provide 3-D tracking of objects.

"The STSS satellites will demonstrate the unique value of a space-based sensor for the Ballistic Missile Defense System. Space-based systems have inherently long range, are not limited by geographic constraints, and collect infrared tracking and discrimination data that complements conventional ground and sea-based radars."

The U.S. government has long considered fielding constellations of missile-tracking satellites like STSS. Whether such a system is constructed could hinge on how these two demonstration craft perform.

For decades, the Defense Support Program spacecraft have flown in geosynchronous orbits to warn of enemy missile launches. Those satellites use infrared telescopes to spot the superhot plumes of boosters during initial ascent. But STSS is designed to identify and follow missiles throughout all phases of flight.

"STSS will demonstrate the key functions of a space-based sensor, passing missile tracking data to missile defense interceptors with the accuracy and timeliness necessary to enable them to successfully intercept missile targets," says Northrop Grumman.

"STSS is the U.S. Missile Defense Agency's only space-based midcourse tracking system. Using onboard sensors capable of detecting infrared and visible light, STSS will become part of land-, sea-, air- and space-based Ballistic Missile Defense System sensors."

The MDA has no funding or firm plans for developing any satellites beyond the two demonstration craft launching Wednesday. The real-life results from space using MDA's own missile test-launches, including two specifically configured for STSS viewing, could give the political boost needed for Congress to fund a future operational program.

"The greatest hedge against missile defense threats of all ranges remains a highly available early missile tracking capability from space. Decisions on any follow-on programs will be made based on the performance of the STSS satellites," MDA told Spaceflight Now.

The STSS Demo mission is expected to last two to four years.

These two craft follow a quasi-classified research and development testbed satellite launched in May aboard a Delta 2 rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Valued at $400 million, that mission is known as the Advanced Technology Risk Reduction, or STSS-ATRR.

An earlier research craft called the Near Field Infrared Experiment, or NFIRE, was launched for the MDA in 2007 aboard a Minotaur rocket from Wallops Island, Virginia. It tested sensor technology to provide high resolution imagery of missiles and their plumes.

The Missile Defense Space Experimentation Center at Schriever Air Force Base in Colorado Springs is the control site for the four satellites under the MDA umbrella.

"Collections by all four satellites provide a unique opportunity to validate technology and sensor performance from different platforms," the MDA says.

Watch this page for complete live coverage of Wednesday morning's countdown and launch, including play-by-play updates and streaming video.

Пусковой патч миссии:

(http://s45.radikal.ru/i107/0909/ff/85657f01d577.jpg)

Начали заправлять:
http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

Цитировать0950 GMT (5:50 a.m. EDT)
It is a soggy commute to the launch site this morning. Steady rain continues to fall around Brevard County. The radar shows another blob of showers just about to move ashore by the launch pad.

First stage propellant loading has passed the 3,000-gallon mark. This process to load the kerosene fuel takes about 20 min

0945 GMT (5:45 a.m. EDT)
Fueling begins! About 10,000 gallons of the kerosene propellant, called RP-1, are pumping into the base of the rocket from storage tanks at pad 17B as fueling of the Delta 2's first stage begins for today's launch.

0941 GMT (5:41 a.m. EDT)
Preparations for loading the Delta 2 rocket's first stage RP-1 fuel tank are beginning. After verifying valves, sensors, flow meters and equipment are ready, the highly refined kerosene fuel will start flowing into the vehicle a few minutes from now.

0940 GMT (5:40 a.m. EDT)
The first stage helium and nitrogen systems have been pressurized. And the "go" has been given for the start of fueling operations.

0930 GMT (5:30 a.m. EDT)
A reminder that if you will be away from your computer but would like to receive occasional countdown updates, sign up for our Twitter feed to get text messages on your cellphone. U.S. readers can also sign up from their phone by texting "follow spaceflightnow" to 40404. (Standard text messaging charges apply.)

0925 GMT (5:25 a.m. EDT)
The rocket's guidance system is being turned on.

And the launch team is starting the steps to pressurize the first and second stage helium and nitrogen systems and the second stage fuel and oxidizer tanks.

0920 GMT (5:20 a.m. EDT)
BEGIN COUNT. The Terminal Countdown has been initiated for today's launch of the Space Tracking and Surveillance System demonstration satellites aboard the Delta 2 rocket.

The next few hours will be spent fueling the rocket, activating systems and performing final testing before liftoff at 8:00 a.m. EDT from pad 17B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

Workers have cleared the Complex 17 area in advance of the hazardous portion in today's launch operation. But a warning horn is now being sounded three times at the seaside complex as a precaution to alert any remaining personnel in the vicinity that they should leave immediately.

The pad clear status will allow the start of activities such as pressurizing the helium and nitrogen storage tanks inside the rocket's first and second stages, along with the second stage fuel and oxidizer tanks.

0911 GMT (5:11 a.m. EDT)
The launch team has been polled to ensure all stations are manned and systems are set for the Terminal Countdown. There are no constraints standing in the way of beginning the count.

0820 GMT (4:20 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 150 minutes and holding. The countdown is entering the first of two planned holds that will occur over the course of the morning. This first pause is 60 minutes long.

The later hold -- at the T-minus 4 minute point -- will give the launch team some time to catch up on any work running behind and verify all is in readiness for liftoff. The hold will last 10 minutes in duration.

0815 GMT (4:15 a.m. EDT)
United Launch Alliance says there are no technical issues being worked as the countdown activities continue at Cape Canaveral. As expected, the weather is the only question mark.

0810 GMT (4:10 a.m. EDT)
A picture taken earlier this morning by ULA photographer Carleton Bailie showing the Delta 2 rocket poised on the launch pad can be viewed here.

0744 GMT (3:44 a.m. EDT)
The weather forecast for this morning's launch window has improved to a 60 percent chance of acceptable conditions. Coastal rain showers and cloud cover are the primary concerns.

Current observations have cleared the earlier lightning and rain issues. But the cumulus and anvil cloud rules are "no go" at present.

The launch time outlook includes scattered cumulus clouds at 3,000 feet, showers in the area, good visibility, southeasterly winds of 10 gusting to 15 knots and a temperature around 76-78 degrees F.

0710 GMT (3:10 a.m. EDT)
Some stormy weather is passing over the Space Coast at this hour. The current observed conditions at the launch site would be out of limits for liftoff due to violations of the rules for lightning, electrical potential, cumulus clouds and rain. But there's still several hours left to go in the countdown for the weather picture to clear up.

0615 GMT (2:15 a.m. EDT)
A line of showers has moved ashore, bringing rain to the launch pad.

0545 GMT (1:45 a.m. EDT)
The weather outlook continues to predict a 50 percent chance of acceptable conditions during the 60-minute launch window. Coastal rain showers and cloud cover are the primary concerns.

0530 GMT (1:30 a.m. EDT)
With the gantry at its launch position to allow the Delta 2 rocket's morning liftoff carrying the STSS Demo mission for the Missile Defense Agency, workers will turn their attention to configuring the pad and putting the final touches on equipment before clearing Complex 17 overnight.

The Terminal Countdown commences at 5:20 a.m. EDT, followed shortly thereafter by loading kerosene fuel and then super-cold liquid oxygen into the first stage. Liftoff remains scheduled for 8:00 a.m. EDT.

Our live play-by-play call will begin with the Terminal Count. And then live streaming video with an interactive chat starts at 6 a.m. EDT on the right-hand side of this page.

0515 GMT (1:15 a.m. EDT)
The mobile service gantry at Cape Canaveral's pad 17B has slowly rolled away from a Delta 2 rocket for launch. The tower was used to stack the multi-stage vehicle atop the pad's launch mount, attach the nine strap-on solid motors and hoist the payload aboard the rocket. This cocoon-like structure wraps around the Delta to offer weather protection and full access for workers during the pre-launch flow.

Work has been underway this evening at Complex 17, as ground crews retracted access platforms and stowed gear in the tower in advance of the structure wheeling away from the rocket.

The STSS spacecraft launching in the morning were delivered to the pad on August 27 and hoisted into the cleanroom and bolted to its Delta for the ride to orbit. The rocket's two-piece nose cone to shroud the satellite during ascent through the atmosphere was installed around the craft a couple of weeks later.

0320 GMT (11:20 p.m. EDT Tues.)
Ground crews are busy at work preparing the mobile service tower for retraction from around the Delta 2 rocket at Cape Canaveral's pad 17B. The sliding doors on the backside of the tower just opened up to reveal the full vehicle standing tall. The doors enclose the cleanroom area where Delta payloads get attached to the rockets during the campaigns leading up to launch.

A few more access platforms still have to be folded up, then the tower will be free to roll back later tonight.

0001 GMT (8:01 p.m. EDT Tues.)
Final pre-flight preparations are getting underway this evening as the Delta rocket and STSS spacecraft teams target an 8:00 a.m. EDT launch Wednesday morning from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Началась трансляция:
http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

На NASA TV тоже :
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html

Брошюра по STSS :
http://www.floridatoday.com/content/blogs/space/launch/STSS1.pdf

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/61298.jpg) (http://www.floridatoday.com/content/blogs/space/uploaded_images/stsspad1-748223.jpg)
Картинка раскрывается при нажатии.

http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

Цитировать1037 GMT (6:37 a.m. EDT)
NEW LAUNCH TIME. Liftoff is being retargeted for 8:39 a.m. EDT.

The countdown clocks are going to be reset for the new time.
1030 GMT (6:30 a.m. EDT)
The launch team has been instructed not to start liquid oxygen loading as this next band of showers moves through.
1028 GMT (6:28 a.m. EDT)
NASA launch manager Omar Baez has completed a poll to confirm the agency management team is "go" for liquid oxygen loading.
1021 GMT (6:21 a.m. EDT)
Weather forecasters hope the showers will clear out by about 7 a.m. EDT. Lingering clouds will remain the concern.
1017 GMT (6:17 a.m. EDT)
There's some light rain just east of the launch site moving onto the coast. The current weather conditions are violating cumulus and anvil cloud rules, the electrical potential in the air and rain in the rocket's flight path.
1014 GMT (6:14 a.m. EDT)
The launch team has completed work to turn on and configure the Delta's onboard guidance computer.
1007 GMT (6:07 a.m. EDT)
The next milestone in the count will be loading super-cold cryogenic liquid oxygen into the first stage starting about 30 minutes from now.

The kerosene and liquid oxygen will be consumed by the stage's Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne RS-27A main engine and twin vernier steering thrusters during the initial four-and-a-half minutes of flight.
1005 GMT (6:05 a.m. EDT)
The first stage fuel tank of the Delta 2 rocket has been fully loaded for today's planned 8:00 a.m. EDT launch. The tank was filled with a highly refined kerosene, called RP-1, during a 19-minute, 25-second process that concluded at 6:05 a.m.
1002 GMT (6:02 a.m. EDT)
Rapid-loading of the RP-1 tank has concluded with 9,700 gallons having been pumped into the rocket. Fine load is continuing.
0959 GMT (5:59 a.m. EDT)
The launch team has computed that the full load for the first stage fuel tank will be 9,901 gallons.

Once the tank is filled to the 98 percent level, or 9,700 gallons, the "rapid load" valve will be closed and the slower "fine load" phase will continue to top off the tank.

Судя по метеорадару, шансы улететь сегодня постепенно смывает дождём. Уже поставили в конец окна, на 12:59 GMT.

Начали заправку окислителем.

Цитировать1150 GMT (7:50 a.m. EDT)
A bright white plume of vapors have begun streaming from a vent on the rocket and the bottom of the vehicle is icing over as the super-cold liquid oxygen continues to flow into the first stage.
1145 GMT (7:45 a.m. EDT)
Now 10 minutes into this approximate 25-minute process to fill the first stage liquid oxygen tank.
1135 GMT (7:35 a.m. EDT)
LOX loading begins! Cryogenic liquid oxygen, chilled to Minus-298 degrees F, has started flowing from the storage reservoir at Complex 17, through plumbing and into the bottom of the Delta 2 rocket. The LOX will be consumed by the first stage main engine during the first four-and-a-half minutes of flight along with the 10,000 gallons of RP-1 kerosene already loaded aboard the vehicle.
1131 GMT (7:31 a.m. EDT)
The concern about rain showers hitting the pad during tanking has diminished. And so the official "go" has been given by the launch director to start filling the rocket's first stage with liquid oxygen.

The anvil and cumulus clouds around remain "no go" for launch. But forecasters say those conditions should clear in the next hour.
1125 GMT (7:25 a.m. EDT)
The countdown has been recycled to target the 8:59 a.m launch time. Clocks now read T-minus 84 minutes and counting. There will be a 10-minute planned hold at the T-minus 4 minute mark.
1121 GMT (7:21 a.m. EDT)
NEW LAUNCH TIME. Liftoff is being retargeted for 8:59 a.m. EDT. That's the end of the today's available launch window.
1119 GMT (7:19 a.m. EDT)
To recap, the team has gotten the prep work done for loading liquid oxygen but stopped just short of actually starting the process to flow the cryogenic oxidizer into the rocket. Although it's not raining at the pad right now, there's showers around the Cape and uncertainty about the weather.
1114 GMT (7:14 a.m. EDT)
With still some rain showers to the north and south of the launch pad, the decision has been made to again delay the start of liquid oxygen loading.
1109 GMT (7:09 a.m. EDT)
The launch team has received approval to begin preparations for loading the rocket's first stage liquid oxygen tank.
1050 GMT (6:50 a.m. EDT)
Dawn is beginning to break here at Cape Canaveral. A light drizzle continues to fall and liquid oxygen loading has been pushed back. NASA says weather is the primary reason for the delay in the morning's launch to 8:39 a.m. EDT.
1044 GMT (6:44 a.m. EDT)
The countdown has been recycled to target the 8:39 a.m launch time. Clocks now read T-minus 105 minutes and counting. There will be a 10-minute planned hold at the T-minus 4 minute mark.

Цитировать1224 GMT (8:24 a.m. EDT)
The launch team is beginning the "slew" or steering checks of the first and second stage engines. These are gimbal tests of the nozzles on the first stage main engine and twin vernier engines and second stage engine to ensure the rocket will be able to steer itself during launch.
1220 GMT (8:20 a.m. EDT)
A wall of towering clouds fills the eastern horizon, slowly marching toward the coast.
1214 GMT (8:14 a.m. EDT)
The checks of the rocket's safety systems are underway. That will be followed a short time from now by engine steering tests.
1210 GMT (8:10 a.m. EDT)
A reminder that if you will be away from your computer but would like to receive occasional countdown updates, sign up for our Twitter feed to get text messages on your cellphone. U.S. readers can also sign up from their phone by texting "follow spaceflightnow" to 40404. (Standard text messaging charges apply.)
1206 GMT (8:06 a.m. EDT)
Meteorologists are watching the next area of weather inbound toward the Cape that has the potential to develop into characteristics that would violate the cumulus cloud rule starting around 8:30 a.m.
1200 GMT (8:00 a.m. EDT)
Loading of the Delta 2 rocket's first stage liquid oxygen tank has been accomplished. The filling process took 25 minutes and 31 seconds, ending at 8:00 a.m. The tank will be replenished through the countdown to replace the super-cold liquid oxygen that naturally boils away.

The rocket now stands fully fueled for liftoff. The vehicle's first stage was successfully loaded with RP-1 kerosene fuel along with the liquid oxygen this morning. The second stage was filled with its storable nitrogen tetroxide and Aerozine 50 fuels on Sunday. The nine strap-on booster rockets use solid propellants.
1159 GMT (7:59 a.m. EDT)
Now 60 minutes away from the planned launch time for the Delta 2 rocket and the STSS Demo spacecraft.
1158 GMT (7:58 a.m. EDT)
The first stage liquid oxygen tank just reached the 95 percent full level. The "rapid load" valve was closed, with the slower "fine load" phase continuing to fill the tank.
1157 GMT (7:57 a.m. EDT)
The cumulus cloud rule is back in a "go" for launch status. However, the anvil cloud rule remains "no go" at the curren time.

http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

Цитировать1232 GMT (8:32 a.m. EDT)
The weather officer says the forecast is "looking grim" given clouds around the Cape and today's launch window closing at 8:59 a.m. EDT.
1231 GMT (8:31 a.m. EDT)
Now both cumulus and anvil cloud rules are "no go" for a launch.
1230 GMT (8:30 a.m. EDT)
The first stage engine steering checks just finished. Technicians will take the next few minutes to review the data from the tests.
1227 GMT (8:27 a.m. EDT)
The second stage engine slews are complete. First stage tests have begun.

Цитировать1239 GMT (8:39 a.m. EDT)
The rocket and payloads remain in good shape for launch. But the weather is unacceptable and meteorologists aren't sure conditions will improve in time for 8:59 a.m. EDT launch. That is the last moment of today's available launch opportunity.
1235 GMT (8:35 a.m. EDT)
Countdown clocks are continuing to the T-minus 4 minute mark where a 10-minute built-in hold is planned, leading to the target liftoff time of 8:59 a.m. EDT.

Цитировать1245 GMT (8:45 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 4 minutes and holding. The countdown has entered the final planned hold point for today's launch. If the weather doesn't somehow clear up, the launch team will run out of window to get the rocket airborne today.
1244 GMT (8:44 a.m. EDT)
The weather officer reports to the launch team that current conditions are "no go" for anvil and cumulus cloud rules.

На сегодня все, перенесли на завтра из-за погоды, жаль, красивый запуск бы был :(

На сегодня отбой.

(http://i077.radikal.ru/0909/7a/291fa59eb2cd.jpg)

Цитировать1245 GMT (8:45 a.m. EDT)
SCRUB. Inclement weather moving ashore from the Atlantic Ocean has forced today's launch of the Delta 2 rocket from Cape Canaveral to be postponed. The next launch opportunity will be tomorrow morning at 8 a.m. EDT.

Цитировать1258 GMT (8:58 a.m. EDT)
A gradual improvement in the weather situation is expected over the next couple of days. There's a 30-40 percent chance of weather again preventing launch tomorrow and 30 percent or less on Friday, the weather officer just told mission managers.

The launch time outlook for tomorrow includes scattered cumulus clouds at 3,000 feet, isolated coastal showers, good visibility, easterly winds of 10 knots and a temperature around 76-78 degrees F.
1253 GMT (8:53 a.m. EDT)
Draining of liquid oxygen from the first stage after today's scrub is starting.

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9243.jpg)

Перенесли пуск еще на сутки, на пятницу 25 сентября из-за течи в топливной системе

http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

ЦитироватьTHURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2009
DELAY. Launch of the Delta 2 rocket carrying a pair of experimental missile-tracking satellites has been postponed an additional 24 hours due to a small fuel leak at the pad.

Liftoff from Cape Canaveral's pad 17B is retargeted for Friday morning at 8 a.m. EDT.

"Following Wednesday morning's weather launch scrub, teams detected a small leak in a flange in the fuel transfer system under the launch pad," a NASA spokesman says.

"Teams plan to assess the fuel leak and determine what steps to take to support the next launch attempt."

NASA says the Delta 2 rocket and the STSS Demo spacecraft remain in good condition with no technical issues.

Salo
А на какое время назначен пуск в пятницу? На 16-00 мск?

Думаю, Salo не станет возражать, если отвечу: окно в пятницу то же, 16.00-16.59 лмв.

V.V.
Спасибо!
Принято!

Обычно время стоит в заголовке темы. :wink:

ЦитироватьОбычно время стоит в заголовке темы. :wink:

Отож!
Слепой уже и рассеяный!
Про перенос в посте прочитал, а задрать глаза и посмотреть на изменение заголовка - "сосредоточенности" не хватило! :)

Фото сделанное 23.09.09:
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/61330.jpg) (http://www.floridatoday.com/content/blogs/space/uploaded_images/stsspad-739145.jpg)
http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

Цитировать0515 GMT (1:15 a.m. EDT)
The mobile service tower at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's pad 17B has been wheeled to its launch position a safe distance away from the Delta 2 rocket for this morning's liftoff.

The gantry was instrumental in helping to assemble the multi-piece vehicle beginning in mid April by erecting the first stage. The nine strap-on solid boosters were added in the following days, then the second stage motor was hoisted into place in early May. The STSS Demo satellites were brought out to the pad at the end of August.

"Every vehicle has its own personality. Every spacecraft have their own personality. This was just the same. They had some challenges we had to work through during our integration process," said Garrett Skrobot, the mission manager from NASA's Kennedy Space Center.

The combined weight of the payload amounts to nearly 5,000 pounds, a mass this two-stage launcher will deliver into a 730-nautical-mile orbit inclined 58 degrees to the equator.

"The Delta 2 has been a workhorse for the government. The mass of 5,000 pounds fits right into the Delta 2 performance class very well, which made this a very good match," Skrobot said.

0448 GMT (12:48 a.m. EDT)
Rollback of mobile tower is underway.

0145 GMT (9:45 p.m. EDT Thurs.)
The xenon spotlights have been turned on to shine brightly upon the Delta 2 rocket at launch pad 17B. The gantry-like mobile service tower will be retracted by ground crews a little later tonight to reveal the booster in the final hours before blastoff carrying the two Space Tracking and Surveillance System demonstration satellites. Liftoff remains on target for 8 a.m. EDT

Свеженькое фото:

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/61331.jpg) (http://www.floridatoday.com/content/blogs/space/uploaded_images/stsspad2-752813.jpg)

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9254.jpg)

Цитировать0820 GMT (4:20 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 150 minutes and holding. The countdown is entering the first of two planned holds that will occur over the course of the morning. This first pause is 60 minutes long.

The later hold -- at the T-minus 4 minute point -- will give the launch team some time to catch up on any work running behind and verify all is in readiness for liftoff. The hold will last 10 minutes in duration.

0800 GMT (4:00 a.m. EDT)
Workers have finished their hands-on chores at pad 17B and cleared the complex for the rest of today's countdown. Meanwhile, the hold-fire safety checks to ensure the countdown could be stopped if a problem arises were just performed.

Ыыыыых, есть что космическое в этой Дельте! Жалко будет когда её не будет...

ЦитироватьЫыыыых, есть что космическое в этой Дельте! Жалко будет когда её не будет...

Может, раскраска :wink:? Рыжие баки подсознательно выглядят приземлённее синих и белых.

Цитировать0911 GMT (5:11 a.m. EDT)
The launch team has been polled to ensure all stations are manned and systems are set for the Terminal Countdown. There are no constraints standing in the way of beginning the count.
 
0830 GMT (4:30 a.m. EDT)
There are coastal showers and storms around again this morning. So far most of the activity is occurring south of the Cape. But the associated clouds and any rain moving close to the pad will be concerns as launch time nears.

ЦитироватьМожет, раскраска :wink:? Рыжие баки подсознательно выглядят приземлённее синих и белых.

Да вообще она какаято устремлённая. И надкалиберный набалдашник (по крайней мере 10С) её ничуть не портит, даже наоборот...

http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

Цитировать0925 GMT (5:25 a.m. EDT)
The rocket's guidance system is being turned on.

And the launch team is starting the steps to pressurize the first and second stage helium and nitrogen systems and the second stage fuel and oxidizer tanks.

0920 GMT (5:20 a.m. EDT)
BEGIN COUNT. The Terminal Countdown has been initiated for today's launch of the Space Tracking and Surveillance System demonstration satellites aboard the Delta 2 rocket.

The next few hours will be spent fueling the rocket, activating systems and performing final testing before liftoff at 8:00 a.m. EDT from pad 17B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

Workers have cleared the Complex 17 area in advance of the hazardous portion in today's launch operation. But a warning horn is now being sounded three times at the seaside complex as a precaution to alert any remaining personnel in the vicinity that they should leave immediately.

The pad clear status will allow the start of activities such as pressurizing the helium and nitrogen storage tanks inside the rocket's first and second stages, along with the second stage fuel and oxidizer tanks.

Начали заправлять керосином.

Цитировать0944 GMT (5:44 a.m. EDT)
Fueling begins! About 10,000 gallons of the kerosene propellant, called RP-1, are pumping into the base of the rocket from storage tanks at pad 17B as fueling of the Delta 2's first stage begins for today's launch.

0941 GMT (5:41 a.m. EDT)
Preparations for loading the Delta 2 rocket's first stage RP-1 fuel tank are beginning. After verifying valves, sensors, flow meters and equipment are ready, the highly refined kerosene fuel will start flowing into the vehicle a few minutes from now.

0940 GMT (5:40 a.m. EDT)
The first stage helium and nitrogen systems have been pressurized. And the "go" has been given for the start of fueling operations.

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/61333.jpg)
Cape Canaveral weather

Цитировать1000 GMT (6:00 a.m. EDT)
Passing the 9,000-gallon mark.

0957 GMT (5:57 a.m. EDT)
The launch team has computed that the full load for the first stage fuel tank will be 9,897 gallons.

Once the tank is filled to the 98 percent level, or 9,700 gallons, the "rapid load" valve will be closed and the slower "fine load" phase will continue to top off the tank.

0956 GMT (5:56 a.m. EDT)
The rocket's RP-1 tank has 7,000 gallons aboard.

0950 GMT (5:50 a.m. EDT)
First stage propellant loading has passed the 3,000-gallon mark. This process to load the kerosene fuel takes about 20 minutes.

Цитировать1010 GMT (6:10 a.m. EDT)
The launch team has completed work to turn on and configure the Delta's onboard guidance computer.

1003 GMT (6:03 a.m. EDT)
The first stage fuel tank of the Delta 2 rocket has been fully loaded for today's planned 8:00 a.m. EDT launch. The tank was filled with a highly refined kerosene, called RP-1, during a 18-minute, 47-second process that concluded at 6:03 a.m.

1001 GMT (6:01 a.m. EDT)
Rapid-loading of the RP-1 tank has concluded with 9,800 gallons having been pumped into the rocket. Fine load is continuing.

Цитировать1035 GMT (6:35 a.m. EDT)
There is a "pop up" cloud development just east of the Cape that has prompted a last-minute concern that is going to delay the start of liquid oxygen loading this morning. Rules prohibit fueling from occurring if it is raining.

1030 GMT (6:30 a.m. EDT)
The launch team has received approval to begin preparations for loading the rocket's first stage liquid oxygen tank as planned.

1023 GMT (6:23 a.m. EDT)
NASA launch manager Omar Baez has completed a poll to confirm the agency management team is "go" for liquid oxygen loading.

1019 GMT (6:19 a.m. EDT)
All of the weather rules are "go" for launch at this time and the outlook for today's window calls for a 70 percent chance of acceptable conditions.

The official forecast includes a few cumulus clouds at 3,000 feet, isolated coastal showers, good visibility, easterly winds from 100 degrees at 8 to 10 knots and a temperature around 76-78 degrees F.

Новое время старта 16:20 ЛМВ.
http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

Цитировать1048 GMT (6:48 a.m. EDT)
NEW LAUNCH TIME. Liftoff has been delayed to 8:20 a.m. EDT due to this delay in liquid oxygen loading. The countdown clocks are being stopped and reset to target the revised launch time.

Цитировать1057 GMT (6:57 a.m. EDT)
Although conditions are acceptable for fueling to begin, a check of the launch weather criteria shows the cumulus cloud rule is out of limits now. The weather team keeps managers updated as rules go green and red throughout the countdown.

1056 GMT (6:56 a.m. EDT)
LOX loading begins! Cryogenic liquid oxygen, chilled to Minus-298 degrees F, has started flowing from the storage reservoir at Complex 17, through plumbing and into the bottom of the Delta 2 rocket. The LOX will be consumed by the first stage main engine during the first four-and-a-half minutes of flight along with the 10,000 gallons of RP-1 kerosene already loaded aboard the vehicle.

1053 GMT (6:53 a.m. EDT)
After waiting a little while for a small weather cell that popped up off shore to move away, the official "go" has been given by the launch director to start filling the rocket's first stage with liquid oxygen.

Цитировать1106 GMT (7:06 a.m. EDT)
Now 10 minutes into this approximate 25-minute process to fill the first stage liquid oxygen tank.

Цитировать1136 GMT (7:36 a.m. EDT)
The checks of the rocket's safety systems are underway.

1132 GMT (7:32 a.m. EDT)
The launch weather officer has increased odds of acceptable conditions for today's launch opportunity to 80 percent.

1130 GMT (7:30 a.m. EDT)
A reminder that if you will be away from your computer but would like to receive occasional countdown updates, sign up for our Twitter feed to get text messages on your cellphone. U.S. readers can also sign up from their phone by texting "follow spaceflightnow" to 40404. (Standard text messaging charges apply.)

1122 GMT (7:22 a.m. EDT)
Loading of the Delta 2 rocket's first stage liquid oxygen tank has been accomplished. The filling process took 26 minutes and 8 seconds, ending at 7:22 a.m. The tank will be replenished through the countdown to replace the super-cold liquid oxygen that naturally boils away.

The rocket now stands fully fueled for liftoff. The vehicle's first stage was successfully loaded with RP-1 kerosene fuel along with the liquid oxygen over the past hour-and-a-half. The second stage was filled with its storable nitrogen tetroxide and Aerozine 50 fuels on Sunday. The nine strap-on booster rockets use solid propellants.

1120 GMT (7:20 a.m. EDT)
Now 60 minutes away from launch.

The first stage liquid oxygen tank just reached the 95 percent full level. The "rapid load" valve was closed, with the slower "fine load" phase continuing to fill the tank.

1114 GMT (7:14 a.m. EDT)
The cumulus cloud rule violation has ended. All of the weather rules are back in a "go" status as the sun rises and fueling continues.

1112 GMT (7:12 a.m. EDT)
A bright white plume of vapors have begun streaming from a vent on the rocket and the bottom of the vehicle is icing over as the super-cold liquid oxygen continues to flow into the first stage.

А это справа в углу, ферма обслуживания?

Заправили жидким кислородам. Погода хорошая.
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/61333.jpg)

Трансляция:
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html

ЦитироватьА это справа в углу, ферма обслуживания?

Мобильная башня. :wink:

Цитировать1146 GMT (7:46 a.m. EDT)
The second stage engine slews are complete. First stage tests have begun.

1145 GMT (7:45 a.m. EDT)
The launch team is beginning the "slew" or steering checks of the first and second stage engines. These are gimbal tests of the nozzles on the first stage main engine and twin vernier engines and second stage engine to ensure the rocket will be able to steer itself during launch.

1140 GMT (7:40 a.m. EDT)
NASA says no technical issues are being worked in the countdown. Liftoff is 40 minutes away.

Цитировать1150 GMT (7:50 a.m. EDT)
The first stage engine steering checks just finished. Technicians will take the next few minutes to review the data from the tests.

Цитировать

ЦитироватьА это справа в углу, ферма обслуживания?

Мобильная башня. :wink:

Да да да, это я о наболевшем  :wink:  Симпотишная

Здесь тоже трансляция и возможен полноэкранный режим:
http://spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

(http://i079.radikal.ru/0909/fc/3cbeea7bb684.jpg)
(http://s45.radikal.ru/i108/0909/ca/fbadb392a50c.jpg)

(http://s42.radikal.ru/i098/0909/2a/ecfa706275a1.jpg)

Цитировать1200 GMT (8:00 a.m. EDT)
Now 20 minutes from liftoff.

Countdown clocks are continuing to the T-minus 4 minute mark where a 10-minute built-in hold is planned starting at 8:06 a.m. EDT. The target liftoff time is set for 8:20 a.m. EDT.
1154 GMT (7:54 a.m. EDT)
Weather continues to look promising. The current observed conditions remain acceptable for launch, the weather officer just told mission managers.

(http://i081.radikal.ru/0909/ff/f8932bd7fcda.jpg)

В РМВ показывают сколько людей смотрят трансляцию. Ребята из ТВ ЦЭНКИ. Это для Вас, есть на что посмотреть
http://www.livestream.com/spaceflightnow?origin=embedplayer&utm_medium=EmbeddedPlayer&utm_campaign=Videos&utm_source=spaceflightnow.com

(http://s49.radikal.ru/i126/0909/73/650f17ffade2.jpg)

Гы, вертолет пролетел метрах в ста  :lol:  Думал на таран идет!

(http://s48.radikal.ru/i120/0909/9a/d8e810048366.jpg)

http://spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/status.html

Цитировать1206 GMT (8:06 a.m. EDT)
The STSS spacecraft cargo atop the Delta 2 rocket are switching to internal power for launch.

1206 GMT (8:06 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 4 minutes and holding. The countdown has entered the final planned hold point for today's launch. During this planned 10-minute hold, officials will poll the team members in the various control centers to ensure all systems are "go" to proceed with the countdown for liftoff at 8:20 a.m. EDT.

Цитировать1208 GMT (8:08 a.m. EDT)
The two STSS Demo satellites will become the 219th and 220th primary payloads put into space by the venerable Delta 2 rocket over the past 20 years. Here's a look at some other stats about today's mission. This will be:
The 344th Delta rocket launch since 1960
The 8th Delta of 2009
The 145th Delta 2 rocket mission since 1989
The 109th Delta 2 rocket to fly from Cape Canaveral
The 47th Delta 2 launch from Cape's pad 17B
The 46th Delta 2 mission overseen by NASA

ЦитироватьГы, вертолет пролетел метрах в ста  :lol:  Думал на таран идет!

Он за кем-то гнался! :)
впереди что-то чёрное летело. а он за ним!
Наверное инопланетяне? :)

Цитировать

ЦитироватьГы, вертолет пролетел метрах в ста  :lol:  Думал на таран идет!

Он за кем-то гнался! :)
впереди что-то чёрное летело. а он за ним!
Наверное инопланетяне? :)

Можь шпиёны с Хруничева? :wink:

Цитировать1215 GMT (8:15 a.m. EDT)
Standing by to resume the countdown in one minute. A "go" to continue the count has been announced. Clocks will be ticking down from the T-minus 4 minute mark for launch at 8:20 a.m. EDT.

1214 GMT (8:14 a.m. EDT)
Two minutes remain in the built-in hold.

1212 GMT (8:12 a.m. EDT)
Final instructions are being given the launch team before the countdown resumes.

1211 GMT (8:11 a.m. EDT)
The team poll confirms that all systems remain "go" for liftoff at 8:20 a.m. EDT. The rocket, payloads, ground systems and weather are ready for launch.

1211 GMT (8:11 a.m. EDT)
The launch team readiness polling is underway.
1209 GMT (8:09 a.m. EDT)
NASA launch manager Omar Baez has performed his ready-to-launch poll of the space agency's management team.

NASA is lending its expertise to the oversee the Delta rocket flight and getting the satellites into space on behalf of the MDA.

Цитировать1219 GMT (8:19 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 30 seconds. The launch ignition sequence will begin in the final two seconds of the countdown when a United Launch Alliance engineer pushes the engine start switch. The process begins with ignition of the two vernier engines and first stage main engine start. The six ground-lit solid rocket motors then light at T-0 for liftoff.

1219 GMT (8:19 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 1 minute. Sixty seconds from launch. The vehicle's second stage hydraulic pump has gone to internal power after its pressures were verified acceptable.

1218 GMT (8:18 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 100 seconds. First stage LOX topping to 100 percent is underway.

1218 GMT (8:18 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 2 minutes. Pressurization of the first stage liquid oxygen is now beginning. Puffs of vapor from a relief valve on the rocket will be seen in the remainder of the countdown as the tank pressure stabilizes.

1217 GMT (8:17 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 2 minutes, 40 seconds. The STSS spacecraft have been declared "go" for launch.

1217 GMT (8:17 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 3 minutes and counting. At liftoff, the six ground-lit solid boosters and the first stage main engine will fire to power the Delta away from pad 17B and begin the ascent to deploy the STSS Demo satellites.

1216 GMT (8:16 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 3 minutes, 45 seconds. The Delta 2 rocket's systems are now transferring to internal power for launch.

1216 GMT (8:16 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 3 minutes, 45 seconds. The Delta 2 rocket's systems are now transferring to internal power for launch.

1216 GMT (8:16 a.m. EDT)
T-minus 4 minutes and counting! The final phase of this morning's countdown has commenced for launch of the Delta 2 rocket from pad 17B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

(http://s58.radikal.ru/i159/0909/eb/2898d7562aad.jpg)

Цитировать1224 GMT (8:24 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 4 minutes, 27 seconds. MECO. The first stage main engine cutoff is confirmed.

1224 GMT (8:24 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 4 minutes. A half-minute remaining in the first stage burn. Everything is reported normal aboard the vehicle.

1223 GMT (8:23 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 3 minutes, 50 seconds. The main engine is still firing normally, burning a mixture of highly refined kerosene fuel and supercold liquid oxygen.

1223 GMT (8:23 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 3 minutes, 30 seconds. The vehicle is 51 nautical miles in altitude, 195 miles downrange from the launch pad, traveling at 8,900 mph.

1222 GMT (8:22 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 2 minutes, 55 seconds. A smooth ride, good controls on the rocket as it soars into cloudless skies.

1222 GMT (8:22 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 2 minutes, 14 seconds. The three air-ignited solid rocket boosters have burned out and separated. The rocket is now flying solely on the power generated by the liquid-fueled first stage main engine.
 
1221 GMT (8:21 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 1 minute, 30 seconds. The Delta 2 rocket now weighs half of what it did at liftoff 90 seconds ago.

1221 GMT (8:21 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 1 minute, 9 seconds. All six ground-start solid rocket boosters have burned out of propellant and separated from the Delta 2's first stage. A moment before the jettison occurred, the three remaining motors strapped to rocket ignited to continue assisting the rocket's RS-27A main engine on the push to space.

1220 GMT (8:20 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 56 seconds. The rocket has passed through the region of maximum aerodynamic pressure during its atmospheric ascent.

1220 GMT (8:20 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 35 seconds. Delta has broken through the sound barrier.

1220 GMT (8:20 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 30 seconds. The six solid rocket motors ignited on the launch pad have surpassed their period of maximum thrust. Each of the Alliant Techsystems-made boosters generate roughly 100,000 pounds of thrust.

1220 GMT (8:20 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 10 seconds. The Delta 2 rocket has cleared the tower at Complex 17B and begun its maneuvers to target a northeasterly heading.
 
1220 GMT (8:20 a.m. EDT)
Ignitors are armed, T-minus 10, 9, 8, all systems remain go across the board, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, engine start, and LIFTOFF! Liftoff of STSS Demo, putting advanced missile-tracking technologies to the test.

Разделение ступеней смотрелось особенно эффектно

Какая она шустрая, эта Дельта!
Быстро умотала со старта!

Цитировать1225 GMT (8:25 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 5 minutes, 50 seconds. The vehicle is91 miles in altitude, 614 miles downrange from the launch pad and traveling over 14,423 mph.

1225 GMT (8:25 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 5 minutes, 5 seconds. The vehicle is 79.9 miles in altitude, 469 miles downrange from the launch pad and traveling over 14,011 mph.

1224 GMT (8:24 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 4 minutes, 48 seconds. The rocket's nose cone enclosing the spacecraft has been jettisoned.

1224 GMT (8:24 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 4 minutes, 40 seconds. The spent first stage has been jettisoned and the Delta's second stage engine has ignited!

Интересно, а вот мультик ктоторый сейчас показывают, он как то привязан к ТМИ поступающей с борта, я имею ввиду команды на разделение ступений ГО и т.д. Если привязано, то они просто красавцы!!!

Цитировать1227 GMT (8:27 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 7 minutes, 10 seconds. The vehicle is 104 miles in altitude, 884 miles downrange from the launch pad and traveling 15,294 mph.
1227 GMT (8:27 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 7 minutes. Pitch and yaw controls are performing normally on the second stage.
1226 GMT (8:26 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 6 minutes, 10 seconds. Second stage engine chamber pressure continues to look good.

Кстати обратил внимание ГО отделился после третьей ступени. У нас обычно ГО отстреливается на этапе работы первых двух ступеней

Цитировать1228 GMT (8:28 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 8 minutes, 25 seconds. Still good second stage engine chamber pressure.

Цитировать1229 GMT (8:29 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 9 minutes, 15 seconds. The second stage engine is still firing, consuming a hydrazine propellant mixture and nitrogen tetroxide oxidizer. This burn is needed to achieve a parking orbit around Earth.
1229 GMT (8:29 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 9 minutes, 5 seconds. The vehicle is 114 miles in altitude, 1,341 miles downrange from the launch pad and traveling over 17,041 mph.

Цитировать1230 GMT (8:30 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 10 minutes, 10 seconds. The vehicle is 120 miles in altitude, 1,590 miles downrange from the launch pad and traveling at 18,135 mph.
1229 GMT (8:29 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 9 minutes, 35 seconds. About a minute left in this initial firing of the second stage.

Цитировать1230 GMT (8:30 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 10 minutes, 34 seconds. SECO 1. The second stage engine cutoff has occurred, completing the motor's first firing of the day. The Delta 2 rocket with STSS Demo has arrived in a preliminary orbit around Earth following launch today from Cape Canaveral. The vehicle will coast for about 32 minutes before the second stage is re-ignited to circularize the orbit.

Циклограмма:

ЦитироватьT-00:00   Liftoff
The Delta 2 rocket's main engine and twin vernier steering thrusters are started moments before launch. The six ground-start strap-on solid rocket motors are ignited at T-0 to begin the mission.

T+01:03.1   Ground SRM Burnout
The six ground-start Alliant TechSystems-built solid rocket motors consume all their propellant and burn out.

T+01:05.5   Air-Lit SRM Ignition
The three remaining solid rocket motors strapped to the Delta 2 rocket's first stage are ignited.

T+01:06.0   Jettison Ground SRMs
The six spent ground-started solid rocket boosters are jettisoned in sets of three to fall into the Atlantic Ocean.

T+02:11.5   Jettison Air-Lit SRMs
Having burned out, the three spent air-started solid rocket boosters are jettisoned toward the Atlantic Ocean.

T+04:23.3   Main Engine Cutoff
After consuming its RP-1 fuel and liquid oxygen, the Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne RS-27A first stage main engine is shut down. The vernier engines cut off moments later.

T+04:31.3   Stage Separation
The Delta rocket's first stage is separated now, having completed its job. The spent stage will fall into the Atlantic Ocean.

T+04:36.8   Second Stage Ignition
With the stage jettisoned, the rocket's second stage takes over. The Aerojet AJ118-K liquid-fueled engine ignites for the first of two firings needed to place the STSS Demo satellites into the proper orbit.

T+04:41.0   Jettison Payload Fairing
The 10-foot diameter payload fairing that protected the STSS Demo satellites atop the Delta 2 during the atmospheric ascent is jettisoned is two halves.

T+10:32.3   Second Stage Cutoff 1
The second stage engine shuts down to complete its first firing of the launch. The rocket and attached STSS Demo spacecraft are now in a coast period before the second stage reignites. The orbit achieved should be 830 nautical miles at apogee, 100 miles at perigee and inclined 54.6 degrees.

T+42:30.0   Second Stage Restart
Delta's second stage engine reignites for a brief firing that will bring the initial elliptical orbit into a circular one.

T+43:37.0   Second Stage Cutoff 2
The second stage shuts down and completed the powered phase of flight. The circular orbit achieved should be 729 nautical miles high and inclined 58.00 degrees.

T+47:49.0   SV 1 Separation
The upper satellite in the stack of two Space Tracking and Surveillance System spacecraft is released into orbit.

T+55:14.0   SV 2 Separation
The lower satellite in the stack of two Space Tracking and Surveillance System spacecraft is released to complete

Выделил жёлтым оставшиеся этапы.

Второе включение примерно через 30 минут.

ЦитироватьКакая она шустрая, эта Дельта!
Быстро умотала со старта!

Ну так наши Союзы к примеру затачивались под пилотируемую тематику, поэтому и не так шустро уходят со старта

Цитировать1241 GMT (8:41 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 21 minutes, 15 seconds. Oakhangar has acquired the rocket's signal for relaying data to engineers at Cape Canaveral.

1238 GMT (8:38 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 18 minutes. As the rocket coasts in this parking orbit, it performs a "BBQ roll" maneuver to keep the thermal conditions on the vehicle equal.

1235 GMT (8:35 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 15 minutes. The official liftoff time was 8:20:00.223 a.m. EDT.

1232 GMT (8:32 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 12 minutes, 30 seconds. The rocket is flying out of range from the Air Force's New Hampshire tracking station over the North Atlantic. The next site to acquire signal will be the Oakhangar site in England a few minutes from now.

1231 GMT (8:31 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 11 minutes, 15 seconds. The vehicle is 127.5 miles in altitude, over 1,800 miles northeast of the launch pad and traveling at 18,568 mph.

ЦитироватьНу так наши Союзы к примеру затачивались под пилотируемую тематику, поэтому и не так шустро уходят со старта

Пилотируемая тематика тут ни при чем, просто семерочный пакет почти не изменился и добавление третьей ступени снизило тяговооруженность.

Цитировать

ЦитироватьКакая она шустрая, эта Дельта!
Быстро умотала со старта!

Ну так наши Союзы к примеру затачивались под пилотируемую тематику, поэтому и не так шустро уходят со старта

Да нет, просто шесть ускорителей они на то и ускорители чтоб ускорять...

//

Цитировать1520 GMT (11:20 a.m. EDT)
"This morning we had a very successful launch," NASA launch manager Omar Baez says. "We had a very nominal flight for the first (stage) and both burns of the second stage and we inserted the satellites at about a-tenth-of-a-mile higher than what was targeted. So we are very happy. The Delta 2 performed just perfect."

"The launch and deployment this morning from the Delta 2 rocket went flawlessly. Both satellites are in their expected orbits, both are safe, communicating with the ground station, responding to commands and receiving solar power," said Rear Adm. Joseph Horn, deputy director of the Missile Defense Agency.
1406 GMT (10:06 a.m. EDT)
High definition video of this morning's Delta 2 rocket launch is available for Spaceflight Now+Plus users here.

If you aren't a subscriber, learn more about the service.
1400 GMT (10:00 a.m. EDT)
NASA and the Missile Defense Agency plan to hold a post-launch news conference at 11 a.m. EDT to recap today's ascent and give an update on the state of health for both STSS Demo satellites.
1330 GMT (9:30 a.m. EDT)
This is the 90th consecutive successful Delta 2 rocket launch dating back to May 1997. The Delta 2's overall history since debuting in 1989 has achieved 143 successes in 145 flights.

The next Delta 2 rocket launch will occur from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California on October 8. That mission will deliver the WorldView 2 commercial Earth-imaging spacecraft into orbit for the DigitalGlobe company.
1318 GMT (9:18 a.m. EDT)
"Building on the launch of the STSS ATRR mission in May, I congratulate both the Missile Defense Agency and NASA for the start of a second successful mission that will demonstrate technologies very important to the defense of our nation," said Jim Sponnick, United Launch Alliance vice president, Delta Product Line.

"Exceptional teamwork between, NASA, the 45th Space Wing, the Missile Defense Agency, and ULA Delta 2 team enabled today's successful launch of the STSS Demo mission."
1315 GMT (9:15 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 55 minutes, 18 seconds. SEPARATION NO. 2! The lower satellite in the stack of two Space Tracking and Surveillance System spacecraft has been deployed, completing this morning's launch sequence.
1312 GMT (9:12 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 52 minutes. The second stage is pitching around 180 degrees to the desired position for casting free the second satellite.
1310 GMT (9:10 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 50 minutes, 30 seconds. The Delta 2 rocket is performing a retro maneuver to back away from the satellite it just deployed.
1307 GMT (9:07 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 47 minutes, 49 seconds. SEPARATION NO. 1! The upper satellite in the stack of two Space Tracking and Surveillance System spacecraft has been released into orbit.
1305 GMT (9:05 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 45 minutes. The two STSS Demo satellites are stacked one on top of the other. The separation system will fire to eject the first satellite. The upper stage then backs away and performs a turn to release the second craft that's affixed to the special carrier structure mounted atop the rocket.
1303 GMT (9:03 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 43 minutes, 4 seconds. The second stage has completed its second burn of this launch. In the next minute, the rocket will be maneuvering itself into the proper orientation for deploying the first STSS Demo satellite.
1302 GMT (9:02 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 42 minutes, 32 seconds. The Delta 2 rocket's second stage is firing again. The burn is in progress to place the vehicle into the planned circular orbit.

1301 GMT (9:01 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 41 minutes. The Diego Garcia tracking site located in the Indian Ocean is receiving data from the rocket for transmittal to the launch site.

1300 GMT (9:00 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 40 minutes. The rocket is soaring over the northwestern Indian Ocean, and restart of the second stage engine is just a couple of minutes away.

1257 GMT (8:57 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 37 minutes. The Delta 2 rocket should entering into the Diego Garcia tracking station's coverage zone, restoring a live telemetry link from the vehicle.

1255 GMT (8:55 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 35 minutes. Restart of second stage engine is expected at about T+plus 42 minutes, 30 seconds. The stage will fire for approximately 67 seconds to reach a circular orbit 729 nautical miles high and inclined 58.00 degrees for deployment of the two payloads.
1251 GMT (8:51 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 31 minutes. "We have a tandem launch today, so we have two satellites going up on the same launch vehicle, which is a little bit unusual and complicates mission somewhat. But once we get the birds up on orbit, we'll be using the two satellites together to simulate a constellation of satellites and we'll do this to test the sensor layer for the Ballistic Missile Defense System," said Lt. Col. Matthew Murdough, an MDA representative.

"We have a latch and spring mechanism that will release and the first satellite will separate away and move forward from the second satellite. We actually do a 180-degree flip maneuver with the second stage of the Delta 2 and we release the second satellite in the opposite direction as the first."

1247 GMT (8:47 a.m. EDT)
T+plus 27 minutes, 20 seconds. The vehicle just passed out of range from the Oakhangar tracking site in England. The next station to acquire the rocket's signal will be Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean for coverage of the second stage restart and deployment of the STSS payloads.

(http://s43.radikal.ru/i099/0909/26/98bf70fc73d2.jpg)
(http://i032.radikal.ru/0909/d1/598ca1de5869.jpg)

http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/090925jetty/index.html
(http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/090925jetty/01.jpg%5B/%5Bimg%5Dimg%5Dhttp://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/090925jetty/02.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9258.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9259.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9260.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9261.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9262.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9263.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9264.jpg)

Международная группа радиолюбителей (Робертс, Гран, Кристи, Марш и Кеннеди) запеленговала пару STSS Demo на частотах 2247.485 МГц (USA 208) и 2247.485 МГц (USA 209), соответственно.

Фотогалерея со старта:
http://www.spaceflightnow.com/delta/d344/gallery/index.html

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9331.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9332.jpg)
(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/9333.jpg)

Интересно, а чем они собираются их тестировать. В пресс-релизах ничего не сказано о мишенях. "Минитмены" и "Трайденты" пускаются еденицами. Маловато, наверное, для тестирования системы. Есть ли данные о пролетах над полигонами РФ и Ирана во время проведения там ракетных стрельб?

ЦитироватьИнтересно, а чем они собираются их тестировать. В пресс-релизах ничего не сказано о мишенях. "Минитмены" и "Трайденты" пускаются еденицами. Маловато, наверное, для тестирования системы. Есть ли данные о пролетах над полигонами РФ и Ирана во время проведения там ракетных стрельб?

Да ладно, заложено два специализированных пуска.

Интересно, будут ли задействованы сабжи в сегодняшнем перехвате с Кваджлейна. Объявленное окно 22:00-01:30 GMT, в районе 23:10 пара хорошо видит пуск мишени. По данным Боба Кристи, ведущий КА сманеврировал 27-28 января. Кроме того, через пять минут над теми краями проходит STSS-ATRR. А вот NFIRE в схему не вписывается.

Испытание проведено  в 23:45 GMT, так что все STSS не при делах.

Какие ракеты участвовали в перехвате: http://www.mda.mil/news/10news0001.html ?

Фото запуска с Кваджалейна:

(http://www.asdnews.com/data_news/ID25818_600.jpg)

И еще:

http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/asd/2010/01/28/01.xml&headline=GMD%20Facing%20Countermeasures%20In%20Upcoming%20Test

The U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) plans to conduct a flight test of the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system Jan. 31 and hopes to execute the first-ever intercept attempt by the Airborne Laser soon after.

The goal of the GMD test, expected between 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. EDT, will be to achieve an intercept against a new target, the Lockheed Martin LV-2, according to Rick Lehner, an MDA spokesman.

This will also be the first flight of this target type, an intermediate-range ballistic missile that will deploy countermeasures during the test. Last fall, program officials said this would be the most complex test to date of the GMD system. With a target launching from Meck Island and the interceptor boosting from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., the test will feature similar geometry to a launch from North Korea.

This flight test originally was slated for last September. An intercept attempt also was a goal in a December 2008 flight test of the GMD system against a different target.

But during that test the countermeasures developed by Sandia National Laboratories failed to deploy.

Following the GMD test, MDA will then quickly reset the team to prepare for the first intercept attempt of the 747-400F-based Airborne Laser (ABL), likely within one month. During the flight trial, the ABL will be pitted against two short-range ballistic missiles.

This first intercept test has been long-anticipated, having originally been expected in 2002. Though the Pentagon has dashed plans to buy a fleet of 747-400F-based ABLs with the current chemical oxygen iodine laser configuration, the test likely will provide data that could be used if the department decides to pursue a follow-on ABL effort.

http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp?plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog:27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post:16575b23-e9aa-4605-b7a9-d5a7f405c582

The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) test fired the rocket motor of a new Flexible Target Family (FTF) target vehicle.

The LV-2 target vehicle will be a two-stage launch vehicle that employs C4 rocket motors from retired U.S. Navy Trident missiles in both stages. MDA officials hope to use the FTF later this year for the first time as a target for a missile defense test.

The FTF program is designed to use as much commonality as possible in crafting targets for missile defense tests, eliminating maintenance hungry and out-of-date legacy systems.

The test took place Jan. 22 at China Lake Naval Warfare Center, Calif.

Below is a pic of the test (pardon the writing, please)

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/61840.jpg)

credit: MDA

Also, a graphic of the configuration LV-2

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/61841.jpg)

credit: MDA

Early March observations and pulsing (?) brightness of the STSS Demo-1 (http://sattrackcam.blogspot.com/2010/03/early-march-observations-and-pulsing.html)

Подтверждение версии, подсказанной симулятором:

ЦитироватьКак сообщает пресс-служба компании Northrop Grumman, в ходе проведенного 6 июня 2010 года испытательного пуска перехватчика системы ПРО GBI (Ground Based Interceptor) была также испытана космическая система предупреждения о ракетном нападении STSS (Space Tracking and Surveillance System).

06 июня 2010, 22:25 GMT

(http://i061.radikal.ru/1007/9c/b5f6971b077f.jpg)


Не менее интересен и пуск "Минитмена" 16 июня 2010, 10:01 GMT

(http://s003.radikal.ru/i202/1007/ed/16121c1daf78.jpg)

http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=196675

ЦитироватьThe Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) Demonstration program satellites, built by Northrop Grumman Corp (NYSE:NOC) and Raytheon Company (NYSE:RTN), detected and tracked an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) launched on June 16 by the U.S. Air Force. The launch, designated Glory Trip 200GM-1, was the 200th scheduled test launch of an ICBM Minuteman Missile.

Сабжи задействовались и в испытании THAAD 29 июня 07:32 GMT, над Гавайями:

(http://s53.radikal.ru/i139/1007/d0/6dde17b1d7b6.jpg)

http://www.aviationnow.com/aw/generic/story.jsp?id=news/awst/2010/08/16/AW_08_16_2010_p21-247313.xml&headline=STSS%20Scoring%20Incremental%20Testing%20Milestones&channel=defense

ЦитироватьSTSS Scoring Incremental Testing Milestones

Aug 19, 2010
 
By Amy Butler
Washington

After a rough start in orbit, two satellites launched last year to demonstrate the complex challenge of midcourse ballistic missile tracking are beginning to achieve some successes, according to Northrop Grumman, which developed the spacecraft.

Progress with the Missile Defense Agency's (MDA) Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) is a significant step in the Pentagon's decades-long quest to track boosting ballistic missiles from "birth to death," or from launch to, ideally, intercept by U.S. defenses. STSS satellites are uniquely equipped to address the challenge of following a warhead after booster separation, as it cools against the cold backdrop of space, a tricky task as infrared sensors are geared to lock on to the differential between a target's temperature versus the background.

The satellites were launched into a tandem formation in an orbit about 1,350 km. (840 mi.) above Earth in September, and they initially had problems transmitting data. In May, officials were focused on calibrating the two Ray­theon-made sensors on the STSS spacecraft. The first is a single-axis short-wave infrared aperture designed to stare down on the Earth looking for the bright heat plumes of a ballistic missile booster. The second is a two-axis gimbaled sensor capable of collecting data in the short-, mid- and long-wave IR bands; it also has a visible focal-plane array. This technology is optimized to follow the warhead after booster separation as it cools and careens through space. The tracking sensor is designed to capture the target and track it from a side axis.

The sensor calibration trials have led to increasingly difficult tasks in orbit that will culminate in a major graduation exercise by year-end when both STSS satellites will be expected to acquire and track a boosting ballistic missile during an MDA flight trial, says Gabe Watson, missile defense and missile warning vice president at Northrop Grumman.

During two experiments last month, STSS Space Vehicle-2—which is ahead of SV-1 in calibration—achieved incremental milestones needed to achieve that graduation exercise. During the first on July 19, SV-2's tracking sensor detected and tracked a U.S.-owned satellite, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 17. This is one of a series of Polar-Orbiting Operational Environmental Satellites, and it acted as a cold surrogate against cold space. Watson says the tracking sensor followed the target in multiple infrared bands and looked sideways for the bulk of the engagement.

Though officials knew the exact location and trajectory of the NOAA satellite, Watson says the trial demonstrates the basic functionality of the sensor to follow a target. During an actual ballistic missile attack, each tracking sensor would be capable of following multiple targets and relaying the data to a ground station at Schriever AFB, Colo. Operators in the ground station then collate the data to form a 3D picture of the battlespace; intelligence collected from the multiple IR bands can also be sent to analysts at the National Air and Space Intelligence Center, which builds profiles of ballistic missile threats. This type of infrared collector could also contribute to the bevy of MDA sensors geared to discriminate actual ballistic missile warheads from countermeasures, which are designed to fool sensors and misguide interceptors.

During another trial on July 23, SV-2's acquisition sensor detected a ground-based laser source from the Starfire Optical Range at Kirtland AFB, N.M. The sensor then handed off this target to the tracking sensor, which followed it as the satellite passed overhead. Watson declined to say how long a target on the Earth is visible as the spacecraft speeds overhead, but a program official previously told Aviation Week the viewing time is typically 15-20 min. This was the first such handoff between the two sensors for STSS "without prior intervention or real-time control," according to a Northrop Grumman official.

While data transfer is significant, it is also notable that the tracking sensor has demonstrated the ability to follow a fixed target on Earth (the Starfire laser) as well as the swiftly moving NOAA satellite. STSS satellites are not in a relatively fixed location like spacecraft in geosynchronous (GEO) orbit. So, the satellites are forced to precisely calculate where they are in space as they orbit and follow the target.

Earlier achievements for the acquisition sensor included spotting a three-stage Minuteman III ICBM, a two-stage Ground-Based Interceptor and a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense missile, all fired during flight trials.

Tests for STSS will continue to become more complex, leading up to the graduation exercise later this year. These spacecraft were designed for two years of in-orbit life, and officials see "no indication at this point that the satellites won't last longer than that," Watson says.

STSS emerged as an MDA program in 2002 after the U.S. Air Force shelved its predecessor, the Space-Based Infrared System Low, which was conceived in the 1990s as an adjunct to the Sbirs satellites now being built by Lockheed Martin for the ballistic missile detection mission in GEO. Parts for the satellites had been placed in storage until MDA issued Northrop Grumman a contract to ready them for flight.

Meanwhile, MDA officials are preparing for a competition to build an STSS follow-on constellation called the Persistent Tracking and Surveillance System (PTSS). The agency has set aside $1.21 billion through the future-years defense plan for this effort, but a formal request for proposals has yet to be released. In their Fiscal 2011 budget request, MDA officials said they hoped to conduct an in-orbit PTSS demonstration by 2014. However, MDA's plans for constellation architecture are unknown; global coverage would require multiple spacecraft and could be viewed by a belt-tightening Pentagon as cost-prohibitive.

Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, Boeing and Ball Aerospace have all expressed interest in at least a portion of that forthcoming work.

http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=211247

ЦитироватьNorthrop Grumman-Built STSS Demonstration Satellites Complete On-Orbit Calibration, Ready for BMDS Tests

REDONDO BEACH, Calif., Jan. 19, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Space Tracking and Surveillance (STSS) Demonstration program satellites are ready to fully participate in Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) tests after on-orbit calibration of the acquisitions and track sensors for both spacecraft was completed Nov. 3 by prime contractor Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC), and infrared sensor payload provider Raytheon Company (NYSE:RTN).

Calibration of those sensors was the last major step during the on-orbit tests of the space vehicles, which were launched Sept. 25, 2009, in tandem configuration from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.

"We are confident that upcoming BMDS tests involving STSS will generate the kind and quality of data that will validate our projections of the value of space-based sensors for missile tracking," said Doug Young, vice president of Missile Defense and Warning Programs for Northrop Grumman's Aerospace Systems sector. He noted the data will validate models used to define an operational system.

"STSS brings unique capabilities to missile defense. It's the only system capable of tracking ballistic missiles through all phases of flight, starting with boost extending through midcourse and terminal phases," Young added. "In 2010, the satellites demonstrated many capabilities essential to performing their missile defense role in initial exercises, such as tracking U.S. missile test launches. While those were not operational tests, they point to the potential applications of this satellite technology."

Using sensors capable of receiving infrared radiation, the STSS demonstration satellites are able to detect missile launches, provide continuous target tracking and communicate with missile defense command and control systems. The STSS Demonstration satellites will be integrated into MDA's overall testing strategy that calls for multiple missile defense elements to participate in each test event.

"Integrated tests involving multiple BMDS elements will provide opportunities for STSS to demonstrate a wide range of missile tracking capabilities geared toward decisions regarding required future operational systems capabilities," Young said.

These capabilities include boosting missile detection and tracking; midcourse object tracking and characterization; missile track handover between the two space vehicles; and interceptor cueing via downlink communications to the ground station.

Как и предполагалось по времени пуска:

STSS Satellites Demonstrate 'Birth to Death' Missile Tracking (http://spacenews.com/military/110323-stss-demo-birth-death-missile-tracking.html)

ЦитироватьA pair of low Earth orbiting demonstration satellites built by Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems for the first time on March 16 detected and tracked a ballistic missile launch through all phases of flight

ЦитироватьКак и предполагалось по времени пуска:

STSS Satellites Demonstrate 'Birth to Death' Missile Tracking (http://spacenews.com/military/110323-stss-demo-birth-death-missile-tracking.html)

ЦитироватьA pair of low Earth orbiting demonstration satellites built by Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems for the first time on March 16 detected and tracked a ballistic missile launch through all phases of flight

А вот здесь есть фотка:
http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=8882

http://www.militaryparitet.com/perevodnie/data/ic_perevodnie/1484/

ЦитироватьСпутниковая система STSS сопровождала БР от старта до падения[/size]
13 апреля 2011 г.

(https://img.novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/17753.jpg)

«Военный Паритет». Два последних испытания космической системы слежения и наблюдения STSS (Space Tracking and Surveillance System, на фото) производства компании Northrop Grumman, выполненных в рамках разработки расширенной системы ПРО BMDS (Ballistic Missile Defense System-wide), показали, что спутниковая система может успешно выполнять обнаружение и слежение за баллистической ракетой с момента ее пуска и до перехвата («от рождения и до смерти»).

«Это произошло впервые, когда космический датчик отслеживал полет БР на всех этапах – от старта, маршевой траектории и до падения на Землю. Это означает, что мы теперь можем иметь возможность оптимального распределения ракет-перехватчиков для поражения целей на маршевом участке траектории, где объекты маневрируют», заявил вице-президент компании Northrop Grumman Дуг Янг (Doug Young).

Испытания двух спутников STSS совместно с ракетой-мишенью  Aegis Readiness Assessment Vehicle были проведены 9 и 15 марта. Спутники продемонстрировали способность обнаружить старт ракеты и ее полет вплоть до конечного участка траектории, когда мишень входит в плотные слои атмосферы. «Это историческое достижение для развития системы ПРО. Впервые космический датчик отслеживал полет БР от старта и до конечной точки. До сих пор для обнаружения и слежения за баллистической ракетой мы использовали комплекс датчиков, размещенных в космосе, воздухе, на земле и на море. Теперь мы видим, что два спутника STSS способны справиться с этой задачей самостоятельно», заявил менеджер программы STSS Дэвид Бладгуд (David Bloodgood).  

Система STSS продемонстрировала возможность использования спутников для обнаружения с особой точностью пусков БР и  слежение за полетом ракеты на всех этапах в реальном масштабе времени, что позволяет одновременно задействовать как региональные, так и стратегические системы ПРО.

http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Tracking_Ballistic_Missiles_From_Birth_to_Death_999.html

Но тем не менее,

MDA Drops Target-Acquisition From Next Sats (http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=space&id=news/asd/2011/04/14/01.xml&headline=MDA%20Drops%20Target-Acquisition%20From%20Next%20Sats)

ЦитироватьThe U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) will not include a target-acquisition sensor in its forthcoming missile-tracking satellites, as part of an effort to streamline the system and control costs.

The agency's new design for its next space-based missile-tracking system will be simpler than the two Northrop Grumman Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) satellites now conducting a demonstration in space, according to MDA and industry officials.

STSS Demonstrator Satellites, Built by Northrop Grumman, Track Short-Range, Air-Launched Rocket in Missile Defense Test (http://missiledefense.wordpress.com/2011/07/20/stss-demonstrator-satellites-built-by-northrop-grumman-track-short-range-air-launched-rocket-in-missile-defense-test/)

И текст официального пресс-релиза Нортроп Груммана для истории:
http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=226850

ЦитироватьSTSS Demonstrator Satellites, Built by Northrop Grumman, Track Short-Range, Air-Launched Rocket in Missile Defense Test

NAVAIR SEA RANGE, POINT MUGU, Calif., July 19, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) demonstration satellites successfully acquired and tracked a short-range, air-launched target (SRALT) July 8 in a test that showed their ability to track dim objects that have extremely short flight timelines. The satellites were built by Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC), prime contractor, and Raytheon Company, sensor payload provider, for the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA). The exercise verified target capabilities and did not involve an intercept attempt.

"Air-launched targets have a wide variety of trajectories. There's nothing predictable about their flights. The STSS demonstrators successfully tracked this target and collected key data about test conditions and the dynamics of air-launched targets that will be valuable for MDA's predictive capability," said Doug Young, vice president of missile defense and missile warning programs for Northrop Grumman's Aerospace Systems sector.

One single-stage, solid-fueled rocket was drop-launched from the rear of a C-17 cargo aircraft by MDA over the Pacific Ocean Test Range near San Nicolas Island off the Central California coast. The SRALT was selected as a target because it closely replicates realistic engagement scenarios.

"This was the first time the STSS sensors have been tested against air-launched targets, and they performed flawlessly," said Bill Hart, vice president, Raytheon Space Systems. "Against such short-range targets, split seconds count. That's why a near-immediate reaction system like STSS is so important to our national defense."

Plans call for the STSS satellites to continue on-orbit testing by participating in a series of performance demonstration tests with ground, airborne, resident space objects and ballistic missile targets to reduce the risk of an operational constellation of space-based sensors for missile defense.

According to MDA, the additional flight tests will demonstrate the ability to track various targets, providing critical demonstrator performance characterization while progressing towards closing the fire control loop with Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) interceptors using space-based infrared tracking.

MDA is operating STSS as an experimental space layer of the BMDS.  Using sensors capable of detecting visible and infrared light, the STSS satellite constellation is part of a collection of land-, sea-, air- and space-based BMDS sensors. They are gathering critical engagement conditions and empirical measurement event data, among other missions.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide. Please visit www.northropgrumman.com for more information.

CONTACT: Bob Bishop
         (310) 812-5227 office
         (310) 251-0261 cell
         bob.j.bishop@ngc.com

First STSS Images Released (http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp?plckController=Blog&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&newspaperUserId=27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7&plckPostId=Blog%3a27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3ab527d358-2075-4b94-8402-74c278589bec&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest)

(http://sitelife.aviationweek.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/10/9/3a9617d9-bb90-456c-89ee-b744775fa596.Full.png)
(http://sitelife.aviationweek.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/8/6ddda1a3-fa3d-4253-a872-b3fee3eecacc.Full.jpg)

ЦитироватьThese images (above) were included in a public presentation by Lt. Gen. Patrick O'Reilly, the MDA director, to the Space and Missile Defense Conference this month in Huntsville, Ala.

Unfortunately, MDA spokesman Rick Lehner says classification prevents the agency from identifying the targets of these images. However, the STSS satellites have been used to "view" as many missile events as possible—such as rocket launches and MDA flight tests—since they got up and running. The goal is for the agency to experiment with them in advance of the Precision Tracking Space System (PTSS), a follow-on now being designed by the MDA and Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL).

The two STSS satellites each have two different sensor arrays — one utilizing shorter wave infrared (IR) bands and optimized to acquire the target while it is boosting and emitting a hot plume, and another employing longer wave IR bands and optimized to track the cold warhead body after booster separation as it flies through space.

During the recent FTM-15 flight test, the satellites provided a "fire-control quality track solution," according to O'Reilly. This is a significant leap forward, because the agency has long sought the ability to remotely launch interceptors based on tracking data from space.

The addition of STSS to the MDA's sensor family effectively plugs a gap in missile tracking. Though the DSP and Space-Based Infrared Systems can see a missile past boost, they were not designed to track through the longwave IR bands as the reentry vehicle cools down and heads for its target. S- and X-band radars can track in midcourse, but they don't necessarily provide fire-quality data with enough fidelity to get an interceptor's payload into the right kill box for a hit.

A major graduation exercise for STSS is slated in the fourth quarter of 2012 (in fiscal 2013) when an Aegis ship commands the launch of an SM-3 IB interceptor from targeting information provided by STSS. The satellites will relay the data before the Aegis ship's radar is capable of acquiring the Aegis Readiness Assessment Vehicle (ARAV) target.

This is called "launch-on-remote" and is critical for MDA as it seeks to expand the reach of its current Aegis defense system.

Meanwhile, plans continue to be made for the PTSS design, though details are being kept under wraps at MDA. APL will likely lead an effort to build the first PTSS satellites. An RFP for companies seeking to build that design is slated for release in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.

Цитировать(http://sitelife.aviationweek.com/ver1.0/Content/images/store/13/8/6ddda1a3-fa3d-4253-a872-b3fee3eecacc.Full.jpg)

Ой, что это?  :roll:

:shock:  :shock:  :shock: Это из чего делают выводы "аналитики", столь любимые Старым  :D
Ну давайте рассуждать логически: скорее всего это съёмки ИК-камерой. и соответственно белое- что-то очень горячее (факел двигателя ?) , а чёрное- холодное (относительно белого) (продукты сгорания ? ) .

ЦитироватьНу давайте рассуждать логически: скорее всего это съёмки ИК-камерой. и соответственно белое- что-то очень горячее (факел двигателя ?) , а чёрное- холодное (относительно белого) (продукты сгорания ? ) .

Я понимаю. Но что изображено то?
Я сначала подумал что Америка и Евразия, вид с полюса, но чтото Берингов пролив широковат... :(

Цитировать

ЦитироватьНу давайте рассуждать логически: скорее всего это съёмки ИК-камерой. и соответственно белое- что-то очень горячее (факел двигателя ?) , а чёрное- холодное (относительно белого) (продукты сгорания ? ) .

Я понимаю. Но что изображено то?
Я сначала подумал что Америка и Евразия, вид с полюса, но чтото Берингов пролив широковат... :(

А что за вспышка посреди Берингова пролива тогда? Ядерный взрыв?  :shock:

Цитировать

ЦитироватьНу давайте рассуждать логически: скорее всего это съёмки ИК-камерой. и соответственно белое- что-то очень горячее (факел двигателя ?) , а чёрное- холодное (относительно белого) (продукты сгорания ? ) .

Я понимаю. Но что изображено то?
Я сначала подумал что Америка и Евразия, вид с полюса, но чтото Берингов пролив широковат... :(

А куда у нас последнее время ракеты летали? Как вариант либо черный цвет земля, а белый-вода либо наоборот. В этом случае вспышка, например, поражение кассетным боеприпасом цели.

Цитировать

ЦитироватьЯ понимаю. Но что изображено то?
Я сначала подумал что Америка и Евразия, вид с полюса, но чтото Берингов пролив широковат... :(

А куда у нас последнее время ракеты летали? Как вариант либо черный цвет земля, а белый-вода либо наоборот. В этом случае вспышка, например, поражение кассетным боеприпасом цели.

мне думается, что чёрный-вода. голубой-земля.. а вот белый.. кассетный боезаряд накрывший и нас и Аляску  :) я скорее поверю, что его ослепили, чем в то, что это взрыв на земле.

Я как раз голубой имел ввиду  :oops:

Цитироватьмне думается, что чёрный-вода. голубой-земля.. а вот белый.. кассетный боезаряд накрывший и нас и Аляску  :) я скорее поверю, что его ослепили, чем в то, что это взрыв на земле.

Место как-то слабо похожа на Камчатку и Аляску. Думаю масштаб карты другой на снимке изображена куда меньшая площадь.

ЦитироватьА что за вспышка посреди Берингова пролива тогда? Ядерный взрыв?  :shock:

Это северный ледовитый океан. :)

Другой вариант.
Это снятое крупным планом с помощью телеобъектива горячее отделение космического аппарата от разгонного блока. Чёрное внизу - космический аппарат. Чёрное вверху - разгонный блок. Красное и белое - пламя из двигателей КА, причём маленькое правее - из патрубка турбинного газа. :)

Прогресс! Он понял, что умирает, отделился от РН и его тут зафотали  :D

ЦитироватьПрогресс! Он понял, что умирает, отделился от РН и его тут зафотали  :D

У спутника нет выхлопа ТНА. Значит это сам Бриз отделяется от Протона! :)

 У Прогресса тоже нет выхлопа ТНА. Хотя вот задняя часть на прогрессовскую похожа...

я так понял, что они опубликовали по одному снимку с обоих сенсоров. т.е. на втором, возможно, как он видит bus.

ЦитироватьУ Прогресса тоже нет выхлопа ТНА. Хотя вот задняя часть на прогрессовскую похожа...

А! Это наверно один из ДПО! Компенсирует возмущения разделения! :)

Не.. Версия с картой мне нравиться больше.. А то кривые какие то спутник с блоком.  Очень кривые!

Плюс я как-то плохо понимаю как они могли быть расположены. Так как тяга должна быть перпендикулярна связке.

ЦитироватьНе.. Версия с картой мне нравиться больше.. А то кривые какие то спутник с блоком.  Очень кривые!

Дык что ты хочешь с такого расстояния? :) А карта разве не кривая?

ЦитироватьПлюс я как-то плохо понимаю как они могли быть расположены. Так как тяга должна быть перпендикулярна связке.

Дык спутник и смотрит на них сбоку. Перпендикулярно осевой линии.

ЦитироватьДык что ты хочешь с такого расстояния? :) А карта разве не кривая?

Карта похоже нормальная, просто район мы определить не можем. Был бы выбор из нескольких координат сразу бы нашли.

Опознание прошло успешно :) а первая фотка- это пока двигатель работает нормально (относительно)

СТССы отметили 1000 дней на орбите:

Цитировать12-NEWS-0009
June 27, 2012
MDA Space Tracking and Surveillance System Demonstrators (STSS-D) Marks 1,000 Days on Orbit

On June 21, 2012 the two Space Tracking and Surveillance System Demonstrators (STSS-D) satellites marked their 1,000th day on orbit. The two Missile Defense Agency satellites were launched into low earth orbit on a NASA Delta II launch vehicle from Cape Canaveral, Fla. on Sept. 25, 2009. Both satellites are operating nominally on-orbit under the control of the Missile Defense Space Development Center at Schriever Air Force Base, Colo., and continue to deliver an operational availability rate of over 99 percent.

STSS-D has performed a remarkable series of 'firsts' in the areas of space-based missile tracking, data collection, and integration, providing risk reduction for future Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) programs. The STSS-D satellites participated in numerous Missile Defense Agency flight tests since launch, tracking ballistic missiles through all phases of flight and demonstrating the viability of space based remote networked sensors to deliver fire control quality tracks to BMDS weapons systems.

In addition to precision ballistic missile tracking, STSS-D is tasked to fully leverage its unique sensor capabilities to collect data across the broad range of missions to include tracking of space launches, on-orbit satellites, satellite re-entries, and collecting of scientific background and scene data on space and terrestrial environments. During the last two years, improvements in mission planning, spacecraft and payload software, ground automation, and power management have allowed a dramatic increase in STSS-D data collection workload. Since January 2012, STSS-D has conducted over 1200 collections, an average of seven per day during round-the-clock operations.

STSS-D has laid a solid foundation and provided risk reduction for the Precision Tracking Space System (PTSS), the follow-on operational missile tracking system which will provide low-earth orbit missile tracking through all phases of flight, delivering accurate and repeatable fire control quality tracking to the BMDS. STSS-D data integration with the BMDS has also demonstrated the viability of networked sensors supporting the Aegis Launch-on Remote capability to defend larger areas with earlier interceptor launch.

http://www.mda.mil/news/12news0009.html

успешная стрельба SM-3 по целеуказанию от STSS-D   
            
                   

ЦитироватьAegis Missile Defense System Intercepts Target in Test
 
 American Forces Press Service
 
 WASHINGTON, Feb. 13, 2013
 
 The Missile Defense Agency and sailors aboard the USS Lake Erie conducted a successful flight test of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system today, resulting in the intercept of a medium-range ballistic missile target over the Pacific Ocean by a Standard Missile-3 Block IA guided missile.
 
 At 4:10 a.m. EST, a unitary medium-range ballistic missile target was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Kauai, Hawaii. The target flew northwest toward a broad area of the Pacific Ocean.
 
 The in-orbit Space Tracking and Surveillance System-Demonstrators, or STSS-D, detected and tracked the target, and forwarded track data to the USS Lake Erie. The ship, equipped with the second-generation Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense weapon system, used "Launch on Remote" doctrine to engage the target.
 
 The ship developed a fire control solution from the STSS-D track and launched the SM-3 Block IA guided missile about five minutes after target launch. The SM-3 maneuvered to a point in space and released its kinetic warhead. The warhead acquired the target re-entry vehicle, diverted into its path, and, using only the force of a direct impact, engaged and destroyed the target.
 
 Initial indications are that all components performed as designed, officials said. Program officials will assess and evaluate system performance based upon telemetry and other data obtained during the test, they added.
 
 Today's event, designated Flight Test Standard Missile-20, or FTM-20, was a demonstration of the ability of space-based assets to provide mid-course fire control quality data to an Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense ship, extending the battle space, providing the ability for longer-range intercepts and defense of larger areas, officials said.
 
 FTM-20 is the 24th successful intercept in 30 flight test attempts for the Aegis BMD program since flight testing began in 2002. Across all Ballistic Missile Defense System programs, this is the 58th successful hit-to-kill intercept in 73 flight tests since 2001.
 
 Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense is the sea-based component of the Missile Defense Agency's Ballistic Missile Defense System. The Aegis BMD engagement capability defeats short- to intermediate-range, unitary and separating, midcourse-phase ballistic missile threats with the SM-3, as well as short-range ballistic missiles in the terminal phase with the SM-2 Block IV missile.
 
 The MDA and the Navy cooperatively manage the Aegis BMD program.
 
 http://www.defense.gov//news/newsarticle.aspx?id=119281 (http://www.defense.gov//news/newsarticle.aspx?id=119281)                   

https://www.gazeta.ru/science/news/2022/03/15/17429461.shtml

ЦитироватьАмериканцы отключили два спутника противоракетной обороны
Американское агентство противоракетной обороны вывело из эксплуатации два спутника для отслеживания ракет. Об этом сообщает (https://spacenews.com/) издание Space News.
Оба спутника системы космического наблюдения (STSS) были произведены компанией Northrop Grumman и запущены в 2009 году на ракете Delta 2. Агентство противоракетной обороны выключило их и перевело на орбиту захоронения 8 марта. На этой орбите спутники не будут угрожать другим космическим аппаратам и проведут около 6 тысяч лет.
До отключения спутники STSS делали в день 12 оборотов вокруг Земли по орбите с высокой около 1350 километров. Они использовали инфракрасные датчики, чтобы фиксировать факелы двигателей стартующих ракет и следить за американскими ракетными испытаниями.
Первоначально, в 1990-х годах, Министерство обороны планировало развернуть группировку из 24 подобных аппаратов, которые должны были дополнить группировку SBIRS, выполняющую те же задачи, но на геостационарной орбите. Однако цель в 24 спутника никогда не была достигнута по финансовым соображениям, и в бюджете на 2022 год заложено $15 млн на вывод STSS из эксплуатации и закрытие программы.
Данные, собранные STSS, учитываются при разработке системы для отслеживания гиперзвуковых и баллистических целей (HBTSS), испытания прототипов которой начнется в 2023 году.