Miniature Sensor Technology Integration-3
Minature Sensor Technology Integration - 3 (MSTI-3) mission gathered data on background infrared phenomenology of interest to space based surveillance systems. In addition, MSTI-3 supported tests and demonstrations of uses for other programs. The satellite launched in May of 1996 for a goal of one-year data collection period. SMC/Det-2 operated the spacecraft from their facilities at Onizuka AFB. The MSTI program team supportted payload operations and data processing from the MSTI Payload Operations Center (MPOC) in Alexandria, VA.[1]
The first satellite in the Miniature Sensor Technology Integration MSTI series, MSTI-1, was launched into low earth orbit (LEO) 21 November 1992 from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, on a NASA SCOUT booster and succeeded in meeting all primary mission objectives. The spacecraft operated in its 400-km polar orbit until the spring of 1993. The MSTI-1 spacecraft weighed just 150 kg and was built for $19M in less than twelve months. The mission paved the way for the more sophisticated detection and tracking payload on MSTI-2.[2]
References
- ^ FACT SHEET: Miniature Sensor Technology Integration-3 mission fact sheet, dated May 1996
- ^ The International Laser Ranging Service Fact Sheet| http://ilrs.gsfc.nasa.gov/satellite_missions/list_of_satellites/msti_general.html