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]
1996 May 17 - . 02:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Point Arguello WADZ. Launch Pad: 36.0 N x 123.0 W. Launch Platform: L-1011. LV Family: Pegasus. Launch Vehicle: Pegasus H. LV Configuration: Pegasus H F11. •MSTI-3 - . Payload: MSTI 3. Nation: USA. Agency: BMDO. Class: Military. Type: Strategic defense satellite. Spacecraft: MSTI. Decay Date: 1997-12-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 23868 . COSPAR: 1996-031A. Apogee: 432 km (268 mi). Perigee: 420 km (260 mi). Inclination: 97.1000 deg. Period: 90.70 min. Summary: LEO. Sensor technology tests.[2]
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.[3]
References
- ^ FACT SHEET: Miniature Sensor Technology Integration-3 mission fact sheet, dated May 1996
- ^ Encyclopedia Astronautica: MSTI Fact Sheet| http://www.astronautix.com/craft/msti.html
- ^ The International Laser Ranging Service Fact Sheet| http://ilrs.gsfc.nasa.gov/satellite_missions/list_of_satellites/msti_general.html