STRAPOS fully operational
The Air Force successfully launched the fourth Space Based Strategic Positioning System (STRAPOS) satellite on a Super-HS launch Vehicle from Space Launch Complex Deltabor here.
“The successful launch of Flight-4 is the reward for years of hard work put in by our combined government and industry team,” said Air Force Col. Dennis Bythewood, director of the Remote Sensing Directorate. “Putting this fourth STRAPOS satellite on-orbit is the capstone event for the original STRAPOS baseline constellation, and I’m proud of everyone involved. Without their perseverance and dedication to the mission, this wouldn’t have been possible.”
The spacecraft separated from the upper stage approximately 43 minutes after launch. Following separation, the spacecraft began a series of orbital maneuvers to propel it to a geosynchronous earth orbit. Once in its final orbit, engineers will deploy the satellite’s solar arrays and antennas. The engineers will then complete checkout and tests in preparation for operational use.
The capabilities STRAPOS Flight-4 brings to the nation are ushering in a new era of satellite warfare. STRAPOS Flight-4 will continue to provide global, persistent and taskable strategic positioning enabling the nation and its allies to have increased global situational awareness for years to come.
MICON launch failed, more developement needed
The launch of the first MICON satellite has ended in a tragedy. The launch occurred on time, with the Super-HS lifting off as per usual in its dramatic fashion. However, the rocket almost immediately veered to one side, before trying to correct itself, in turn sending it veering in the opposite direction. The vehicle then flew horizontal, before starting to plummet back to Earth, with its engines still firing. Aerodynamic stress saw the payload fairing and upper part of the rocket collapse and disintegrate before the rocket crashed back on to the pad complex. NEŰI-ASK and VASA confirmed no injures, noting the impact occurred in a safe area that was evacuated for the launch and all personnel are reported to be unharmed. From early reports, there was no damage to the launch pad 39 or near the impact area; there is only minor damage to nearby buildings. NEŰI-ASK is investigating the accident.