General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems completed the launch and early orbit phase (of the Near Field Infrared Experiment (NFIRE) and has turned satellite control authority over to the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA), the company announced May 25.

The spacecraft, which was placed into orbit in April, is designed to collect data that will be used to help with the development of future missile defense technology efforts. The Track Sensor Payload will collect images of the exhaust plume from two rockets to be launched later this year from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.