Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS)

Abstract

The two Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) satellites launched in 2009 provide an on-orbit capability to validate remote sensor fire control integration to inform design and operation of future Missile Defense Agency (MDA) space-layer capabilities. MDA uses STSS data to characterize contribution of space data into the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) and to provide sensor measurements and background data supporting trade studies and analyses for future MDA space-layer options for both Homeland and Regional Defense. STSS continues to provide risk reduction for future MDA space capabilities, models, algorithms, interface definitions, communications architectures, and performance across threat object acquisition, tracking, complex target signatures, discrimination and multi-mission support. STSS also informs the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Concept of Operations, timelines and performance requirements for remote space sensor cuing for ballistic missile engagements, expanding battle space for weapon systems such as Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD). The STSS program demonstrates the functions and interfaces required for space data delivery to the BMDS, validating the data quality necessary for interceptors to launch and/or engage on STSS sensor data. The two STSS satellites are operated from the ground station processing center at the Missile Defense Space Center (MDSC). The STSS satellites demonstrate MDA space-layer capabilities and reduce risk for future systems by viewing high-value Targets of Opportunity and participating in BMDS flight tests. The MDSC provides MDA's only centralized collaboration and integration environment that leverages existing Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) enterprise integration in support of BMDS research and development test, and sensor operations. The MDSC capabilities and infrastructure support flight tests, operational concept and prototype development, technology demonstrations, experiments, and algorithm development within a multi-security, collaborative environment to integrate and exploit national space asset data. The MDSC also conducts studies and experiments with MDA assets such as the Spacebased Kill Assessment (SKA), and STSS, as well as other agencies' assets.

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Document Details

Document Type
R2 Budgetary Justification
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2019
Source ID
1206893C_4_0400_PB_2019
Change Summary Explanation
Decrease in FY 2019 of $2.498 million reflects a realignment to PE 0603890C, MC30, for Cyber initiatives as well as other Department of Defense priorities.
Service Agency Name
Missile Defense Agency

Entities

Organizations

  • Missile Defense Agency

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Cyber
  • Sensors
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Ballistic Missiles
  • Battle Management
  • Contractors
  • Contracts
  • Cybersecurity
  • Cyberspace Operations
  • Defense Systems
  • Department Of Defense
  • Engineering
  • Information Systems
  • Lessons Learned
  • National Security
  • Situational Awareness
  • Space Situational Awareness
  • Test And Evaluation

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering.
  • Missile Defense Systems.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Satellites
  • Space - Space Objects

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