The Missile Defense Agency announced Monday that it is transferring operational control of a small experimental satellite known as STSS ATRR to Air Force Space Command. The latter will utilize the satellite for space surveillance, according to MDA’s release. MDA placed this satellite into orbit in May 2009 to evaluate prototype missile tracking technology. The agency said the satellite has been successful in this regard. STSS ATRR stands for Space Tracking and Surveillance System Advanced Technology Risk Reduction. In addition to it, MDA launched two larger STSS satellites into space in September 2009. The agency is using them to track ballistic missiles in tests in order to refine concepts for space-based missile tracking.
Members of the Air Force Reserve’s 920th Rescue Wing helped save 11 airplane crash survivors off the coast of Florida on May 12. The Reserve Airmen were flying an HC-130J Combat King II and an HH-60W Jolly Green II on a routine training flight when a Coast Guard call diverted…