Official Site of the U.S. Air Force   Right Corner Banner
Join the Air Force

News > 45th Space Wing launches second SBIRS GEO satellite
 
Photos 
SBIRS GEO-2
In this image released by the United Launch Alliance, a ULA Atlas V rocket blasts off from Space Launch Complex-41 on March 19, 2013 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., carrying the second Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) GEO-2 satellite for the Air Force. SBIRS persistent surveillance capabilities enable detection and reporting of missile launches around the globe, support the nation’s ballistic missile defense system, expand technical intelligence, and gather and bolster situational awareness for warfighters on the battlefield. (United Launch Alliance photo/Pat Corkery)
Download HiRes
45th Space Wing launches second SBIRS GEO satellite

Posted 3/22/2013   Updated 3/22/2013 Email story   Print story

    


by Staff Report
AFSPC Public Affairs


3/22/2013 - CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. (AFNS) -- The 45th Space Wing successfully launched a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying the second Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) GEO-2 satellite into orbit from Space Complex 41 here March 19.

A combined team of military, government civilians and contractors from across the 45th Space Wing provided support to the mission, including weather forecasts, launch and range operations, security, safety and public affairs.

The launch of SBIRS GEO-2 continues the replacement of the Defense Support Program (DSP) constellation, which has been in operation since 1960. The SBIRS GEO-1 was launched May 7, 2011, also from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.

"This spacecraft will provide next-generation missile warning, missile defense, and battlespace characterization for the next two to three decades," said Lt. Col. Paul Konyha, the 45th Launch Support Squadron commander.

"Once again, the entire team worked hand-in-hand to make this another successful launch for the Air Force and our nation," said Brig. Gen. Anthony Cotton, the 45th Space Wing commander. "Our hats go off to them for all their hard work."

For more information about the 45th Space Wing, see www.patrick.af.mil, visit us at www.facebook.com/45SpaceWing, or contact 45th Space Wing Public Affairs at (321)494-5933 or (321)508-2072.



tabComments
No comments yet.  
Add a comment

 Inside AF.mil

ima cornerSearch

tabSubscribe AF.MIL
tabMore HeadlinesRSS feed 
SecAF discusses Airmen morale

Through Airmen's Eyes: Marathon man trains to buckle up

Deployed Airmen save lives miles from front lines

Air Force, Italian medics simulate joint patient care

Nobel Laureate gives important decision-making tips

Doolittle Raiders greet, inspire Hurlburt Field Airmen during final reunion  2

Sequestration will affect force readiness  3

Airmen, EPA combine conservation efforts for Earth Day

Sequestration impact on combat aviation: decreased readiness  1

USAFE commander confirmed for NATO/EUCOM command

Airman's sharp eye saves AF $348K  16

Earth Day: Air Force officials emphasize water conservation

General, wife die in private plane crash  6

Warrior Games camp prepares Air Force team

tabCommentaryRSS feed 
The difficult discussion

A tribute to the Doolittle Raiders  4


Site Map      Contact Us     Questions     USA.gov     Security & Policy     No Fear Act     E-publishing