[Satellite TODAY 10-30-09] The second Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous orbit (GEO-2) spacecraft is progressing through a series of tests that will demonstrate the integrated satellite’s readiness to enter the critical environmental test phase in preparation for launch, the spacecraft’s manufacturer Lockheed Martin announced Oct. 29.
    Lockheed Martin is under contract by the U.S. Air Force to develop and manufacture the system, designed to provide early warning of missile launches, and simultaneously support other missions including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace characterization.
    “This is yet one more step towards providing revolutionary missile warning capabilities to the warfighters and national decision makers in the coming years,” Air Force Lt. Col Heath Collins said in a statement.
    The first SBIRS spacecraft (GEO-1) is in thermal vacuum testing, the last environmental test phase prior to final checkout and shipment to the launch site in late 2010.