The US Air Force (USAF) is to launch two operational satellites and an experimental satellite on-board United Launch Alliance’s Delta IV launch vehicle from Cape Canaveral, Florida, into near-geosynchronous Earth orbit.
Being launched as part of the air force’s geosynchronous space situational awareness programme (GSSAP), the two operational satellites will deliver space situational awareness data to the US Strategic Command and enable more accurate tracking, as well as documenting artificial orbiting objects.
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Led by the Air Force Research Laboratory’s (AFRL) space vehicles directorate, the automated navigation and guidance experiment for local space (ANGELS) prototype satellite will carry out safe research activities around the upper stage of Delta IV launch vehicle.
Air force secretary Deborah Lee James said: "These operational and experimental systems will enhance the nation’s ability to monitor and assess events regarding our military and commercial systems.
"In essence, they will create a space neighbourhood watch capability.
"This launch is a remarkable accomplishment in the air force development of technologies to ensure the safe and responsible use of space."
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By GlobalDataANGELS will conduct research on new space situational awareness skills and technologies while executing safe, automated spacecraft operations to support and enhance future US missions.
In addition, both satellites will protect sensitive assets and report on potential troublemakers launched from other nations.
AFRL commander major general Thomas Masiello said: "The experiments conducted with ANGELS will allow the United States to safely operate future space situational awareness satellites in a more efficient, effective and autonomous manner."
