HBTSS 1 [L3 Harris]
HBTSS (Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor) is an experimental early warning mission by the to evaluate a new sensor with improved sensitivity to detect and track hypersonic missiles, which have lower heat signatures from their exhaust plumes than larger long-range ballistic missiles, making them more challenging to see with the military's existing missile tracking satellites.
The two satellites were built by Northrop Grumman, with L3 Harris providing the payload.
Nation: | USA |
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Type / Application: | Early warning |
Operator: | Missile Defense Agency (MDA) |
Contractors: | Northrop Grumman Space Technology, L3 Harris |
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Orbit: | 992 km × 1004 km, 39.99° (#1); 993 km × 1002 km, 40.00° (#2) |
Satellite | COSPAR | Date | LS | Launch Vehicle | Remarks | |
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HBTSS 1 | 2024-028F | 14.02.2024 | CC SLC-40 | Falcon-9 v1.2 (Block 5) | with HBTSS 1, 2, T0TR 5, 6, 7, 8 | |
HBTSS 2 | 2024-028A | 14.02.2024 | CC SLC-40 | Falcon-9 v1.2 (Block 5) | with HBTSS 1, 2, T0TR 5, 6, 7, 8 |