SBIRS GEO-4 (USA 282)

Launch data:

Spacecraft data:

Description:

• USA-282 (SBIRS-GEO, Space Based Infra Red Sensor - Geostationary) is the geostationary component of the SBIRS-High program, which will replace the DSP system of early warning satellites in providing early warning for Intercontinental Ballistic Missile launches. The SBIRS sensors are designed to provide greater flexibility and sensitivity than DSP and can detect short-wave and expanded mid-wave infrared signals allowing the system to perform a broader set of missions. These enhanced capabilities will result in improved prediction accuracy for global strategic and tactical warfighters.

Mission details:

• United Launch Alliance flew Atlas mission AV-076 on Jan 20 to place the SBIRS GEO-4 missile early warning satellite in geotransfer orbit. The Centaur stage made an additional manoeuvre at 0202 UTC to lower its perigee, and re-entered around 1013 UTC over the Pacific SW of Hawaii.

External links:

• Satellite tracking (n2ya.com): Real time satellite tracking