Lockheed Martin says it has successfully finished extensive testing of the first geosynchronous orbit satellite of the Space Based Infrared System, showing GEO-1 will “meet performance requirements.” Next up for the sat is thermal vacuum testing to demonstrate its ability to operate in extreme temperatures—greater than expected once it’s on orbit. Launch of GEO-1 is slated for late 2008.
The use of a military counter-drone laser on the southwest border this week—which prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to abruptly close the airspace over El Paso, Texas—will be a “case study” on the complex web of authorities needed to employ such weapons near civilian areas and the consequences of agencies…
