Next SBIRS missile detection satellite set for launch

United Launch Alliance (ULA) is set to send the third Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (SBIRS GEO-3) into space for the U.S. military. The $1.2 billion satellite will be part of a system designed to spot missiles threatening the United States or its allies. image: http://www.spaceflightinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/718-470x655.jpeg SBIRS GEO-3 encapsulation SBIRS GEO-3 being encapsulated prior to launch. Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin The Lockheed Martin-built spacecraft will ride to space atop an Atlas V 401 rocket, the most basic version of ULA’s workhorse rocket, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 41. Liftoff will be during a 40-minute window that opens at 7:46 p.m. on Jan. 19, 2017 (00:46 GMT on Jan. 20, 2017). The 45th Weather Squadron at the Cape is predicting an 80 percent chance of acceptable launch conditions with the only concern being cumulus clouds. More

(Source: SpaceFlight Insider - Jan 19)