Newest DSP Likely Failing in Orbit

Aviation Weekly and Space Technology ^ | 12/07/2009 | Amy Butler

[ErnstStavroBlofeld]

The U.S. Air Force is asking industry to explore options for quick delivery of a space-based missile warning system, a move which is likely connected to reports that the service's newest ballistic missile warning satellite is failing in orbit.

A broad sources sought notice was issued Nov. 24, and a more specific and classified request for information is expected Dec. 1.

This flurry of activity is likely a response to concerns of a space-based missile warning gap, according to industry officials. The 23rd Defense Support Program (DSP) satellite, launched into orbit last November, has drifted from its original position in geosynchronous orbit and is likely failing, says Theresa Hitchens, director for the Washington-based Center for Defense Information.

Amateur satellite monitors have observed the satellite drifting from its orbit, a sign that the Air Force may lack control of the system, and they note that it is broadcasting data only infrequently, she says. This is a sign of in-orbit failure. These problems have been noted since September, she adds.

Air Force officials refused to discuss the status of the satellite's health, citing security concerns.

The DSP constellation is used to detect the heat plumes of boosting ballistic missiles. As such, it is the first line of defense against such threats. Infrared signatures picked up by this system are used to tip off missile defenses about the location and trajectory of missile threats. DSP was designed and built by TRW, how owned by Northrop Grumman. The satellites have been providing missile warning data since the 1970s

[ErnstStavroBlofeld]

This is a very outdated article. Could you please remove thread?