SBIRS satellite enters geosynchronous orbit

摘要

GEO-1, the first Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous spacecraft was successfully launched at 1410 EDT on 7 May, writes Doug Richardson. The launch was conducted from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, using a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket. Following separation from the booster approximately 43 minutes after launch, the spacecraft began a series of manoeuvres to achieve geosynchronous orbit (GEO), allow- ing the process of deploying the satellite's solar arrays and antennas,to begin.