USA-205 explained

USA-205
Names List:STSS-ATRR
Block 2010 Spacecraft Risk Reduction
Mission Type:U.S. military technology demonstration
Operator:Missile Defense Agency / U.S. Air Force
Cospar Id:2009-023A
Satcat:34903
Launch Date:5 May 2009, 20:24:25 UTC
Launch Rocket:Delta II 7920-10C
(Delta D341)
Launch Site:Vandenberg, SLC-2W
Launch Contractor:United Launch Alliance
Orbit Reference:Geocentric orbit
Orbit Regime:Sun-synchronous orbit
Orbit Inclination:97.8°
Apsis:gee

USA-205, also known as Space Tracking and Surveillance System-Advanced Technology Risk Reduction (STSS-ATRR), and previously as Block 2010 Spacecraft Risk Reduction is a satellite formerly operated by the United States Missile Defense Agency. It was launched to demonstrate new technology for missile detection early warning systems (MDEWS).[1] The technology demonstrated on STSS-ATRR was used in the development of the Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) part of the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS).[2]

It was launched on a Delta II 7920-10C launch vehicle from Space Launch Complex 2W (SLC-2W) at the Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB) in California, at 20:24:25 UTC on 5 May 2009 into a Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO). The launch was conducted by United Launch Alliance.[3]

Operational and administrative control of the Space Tracking and Surveillance System-Advanced Technology Risk Reduction (STSS-ATRR) satellite was transferred to Air Force Space Command (AFSPC), effective 31 January 2011. In addition to successfully demonstrating required on orbit system performance parameters for a prototype sensor technology, STSS-ATRR conducted Space Situational Awareness and related operations on an as-capable basis.[4]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: STSS-ATRR. Gunter. Krebs. 2009-04-18.
  2. Web site: STSS Risk Reduction Flight Eyes Launch. Aviation Week & Space Technology. April 28, 2009.
  3. Web site: United Launch Alliance Mission Overview.
  4. Web site: Missile Defense Agency Space Tracking and Surveillance System Advanced Technology Risk Reduction Satellite transfers to Air Force Space Command. Missile Defense Agency. 26 February 2011. dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20111202082822/http://www.mda.mil/news/11news0004.html. December 2, 2011. 26 December 2020.