GEO-2, the second Space Based Infrared System geosynchronous satellite, has arrived at Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., in preparation for its scheduled launch into space in March, announced prime contractor Lockheed Martin on Tuesday. A C-5 transport brought the spacecraft from Moffett Federal Airfield, Calif., to Cape Canaveral on Jan. 11, according to the company’s Jan. 15 release. Lockheed Martin assembled the satellite at its facility in Sunnyvale, Calif. “We performed a disciplined integration and test campaign for GEO-2 and are now looking forward to successfully launching this spacecraft to ultimately help protect our nation and allies,” said Jeff Smith, company vice president for the overhead persistent infrared mission area. A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket is slated to carry GEO-2 into orbit. SBIRS satellites are designed to provide early warning of missile launches and other types of overhead intelligence. GEO-1 is already on orbit, as are two SBIRS payloads on satellites in highly elliptical orbits. (See also SBIRS GEO-2 Closer to Launch.)
Airmen and Guardians in the Active and Reserve component, as well as civilian employees, in “mission critical and high-risk populations” are now required to receive influenza vaccinations annually to “preserve force readiness,” according to a recent Department of the Air Force memo.