The Space Based Space Surveillance system has passed its critical design review on schedule, according to a Boeing release. The Air Force SBSS program manager, Lt. Col. Steven Nussmiller called the feat a “great team effort” that ensures a “well defined and achievable” road to launch—slated for December 2008.
As Hurricane Melissa hammers the Caribbean, the U.S. Air Force’s “Hurricane Hunters” are busy flying into the massive Category 4 storm to collect atmospheric data—with one experiencing greater than expected turbulence Oct. 28.

