The next generation unified mission control center for the Space Based Infrared System has moved from development to testing following the successful integration of software and hardware to the station in March, according to a May 11 release by manufacturer Lockheed Martin. The ground system, dubbed increment 2, is expected to replace previously distributed control sites next year. “Consolidating operations into a centralized SBIRS ground system will enable warfighters to more efficiently monitor worldwide threats and alert responders for immediate action,” said David Sheridan, Lockheed Martin vice president and SBIRS program director.
The Space Force awarded three contracts for rocket launches worth up to a combined $13.68 billion on April 4—and the usual players SpaceX and United Launch Alliance have got some competition in the form of newcomer Blue Origin.