The second Space Based Infrared System geosynchronous spacecraft has successfully completed acoustic testing—one of several critical environmental tests that validate the overall design of the satellite and its ability to survive in space, company officials announced. Next up, is the thermal vacuum testing, which will validate its performance at extreme temperatures similar to those it will be exposed to during on-orbit operations. “SBIRS GEO-2 is progressing very smoothly on the path to delivery, and successful acoustic testing of the space vehicle is indicative of the team’s increasing expertise in fielding SBIRS spacecraft,” said Col. Scott Larrimore, chief of the Air Force’s SBIRS space division, in a Lockheed release. The Air Force and Lockheed team are “focused on executing an efficient and thorough environmental test phase and ultimately delivering the much needed capabilities SBIRS GEO-2 will bring to our warfighter.” The first SBIRS satellite was placed in orbit in May and the second is expected to launch next year.
Loved Ones Mourn 6 Airmen Killed in KC-135 Crash
March 16, 2026
Tributes to the six crew members that died in the KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq have flooded social media since the Pentagon released their identities March 14. They were the first Airmen to die while supporting Operation Epic Fury against Iran.