The 45th Space Wing at Patrick AFB, Fla., aided NASA on the launch of the space shuttle Discovery Tuesday by providing weather forecasts, helping to organize and train DOD contingency response forces, and tracking the shuttle’s trajectory using radar and other equipment via its Eastern Range, reports Ken Warren. The 45th SW boss, Brig. Gen. Susan Helms, said the Eastern Range is “a national treasure.”
Space Systems Command on July 27 announced a $287 million award to Sphinx Defense to develop a mission planning prototype for the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications program’s ground segment.