SBIRS Team Completes Thermal Vacuum Test:

The industry team working the Space Based Infrared System satellite program—despite cutbacks and development of a probable competitor—is taking one step at a time, just completing another phase of its engineering plan—thermal vacuum testing of the payload for the first geosynchronous orbit satellite. Lockheed Martin officials say payloads for the GEO satellites carry two advanced sensors—a scanning sensor designed for continuous observation and surveillance of ICBM threats and a staring sensor designed to detect very low signature theater missiles. The test validated the payload performance in a vacuum, stressing the satellite at extreme temperatures.