US Space Force Eyes Two New Surveillance Satellites After Decommissioning One

The U.S. Space Force has decommissioned a space surveillance satellite under its Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program and plans to launch two satellites for the program’s constellation in 2024 and 2027. 

The satellite, called GSSAP Space Vehicle 2, has been in orbit since 2014 and now transferred from Space Operations Command to Space Systems Command. Northrop Grumman manufactured the satellite, which surpassed its seven-year projected lifespan.

According to the SpOC, the satellite’s deactivation will “make way for new more advanced technology in the space domain.”

Six satellites comprise the GSSAP constellation orbiting about 22,000 miles above the Earth to monitor activities and objects of interest, Air & Space Forces Magazine reported.

The program’s latest satellite launch was in January 2022, with its two spacecraft reaching their orbit in April. United Launch Alliance sent the satellites into orbit using an Atlas V rocket. Northrop Grumman also built the two spacecraft, named GSSAP-5 and GSSAP-6.