The launch of the first space based infrared satellite, GEO-1, may slip again, this time beyond 2010. When we inquired about this, the SBIRS Wing at Los Angeles AFB, Calif., a unit of the Space and Missile Systems Center, offered no specific timelines, but did tell the Daily Report that there are two issues affecting GEO-1’s delivery schedule—and its subsequent launch. We asked because a release earlier this month on the successful completion of a flight software subsystem for GEO-1 noted that the satellite was scheduled for “a spring 2011 delivery.” Continue
The Air Force has embraced new technical approaches like open mission systems and rapid software updates for cutting-edge aircraft like the B-21 and Collaborative Combat Aircraft. Increasingly, though, the service is also working to apply these to its older, “legacy” aircraft, officials said this week.