DOD Acquisition: Case Study of the Air Force Space Based Space Surveillance System
Abstract
The purpose of space surveillance is to detect, track, identify, and assess space objects of all kinds, especially satellites and antisatellite interceptors. Through space surveillance the United States can: determine the place of objects put into orbit by other nations, identify their orbits, and determine the space object's mission. With this information, actions can be taken to protect U.S. satellites from attack or initiate attacks against enemy satellites should the need arise. The purpose of the Space Based Space Surveillance (snss) Program, deferred in March 1984, was to develop a survivable system capable of providing surveillance of space activities and timely information on those activities to the appropriate agencies. The SBSS Program had its origin in conceptual studies begun in the early 1970s. At that time, it was recognized that objects in space (resident space object population), both foreign and domestic, would increase dramatically in the next two decades. In fiscal year 1976, the Space Infrared Sensor Program and the early phases of the SBSS Program were initiated. The Space Infrared Sensor Program was to provide a proof of concept demonstration for a longwave infrared sensor system. The SBSS was to address the definition, design, and acquisition of a system employing more advanced technology than the Space Infrared Sensor Program. During its conceptual phase, SESS had been referred to as Deep Space Surveillance Satellite or Low Altitude Surveillance Satellite.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 31, 1986
- Accession Number
- AD1173643
Entities
People
- Frank C. Conahan
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office