# STSS-1

> American infrared and visible light reconnaissance satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q108120278](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108120278)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/stss-1

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **STSS-1**:

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## Summary  
STSS-1 is an American infrared and visible light reconnaissance satellite designed for missile defense tracking. Launched in 2009, it is part of the Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) and operates in low Earth orbit. The satellite was developed by Northrop Grumman with sensor contributions from Raytheon.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date:** September 25, 2009, at 12:20 UTC from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 17B.  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Delta II (D-344 variant).  
- **Operator:** Space Systems Command, sponsored by the Missile Defense Agency.  
- **Orbit:** Low Earth orbit (altitude: ~1,357 km, inclination: 57.9864°).  
- **Manufacturers:** Northrop Grumman Space Systems (general contractor) and Raytheon (sensor subcontractor).  
- **Aliases:** STSS-Demo 1, USA-208, SBIRS-Low FDS 1.  
- **COSPAR ID:** 2009-052A.  
- **Satellite Catalog Number:** 35937.  
- **Purpose:** Reconnaissance and missile defense tracking using infrared and visible light sensors.  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is the primary mission of STSS-1?  
A: STSS-1 tracks ballistic missiles using infrared and visible light sensors, supporting missile defense systems by providing early detection and trajectory data.  

### Q: Who operates STSS-1?  
A: The satellite is operated by the U.S. Space Systems Command and funded by the Missile Defense Agency.  

### Q: What launch vehicle was used for STSS-1?  
A: It was launched aboard a Delta II rocket (D-344 variant) from Cape Canaveral.  

## Why It Matters  
STSS-1 plays a critical role in missile defense by providing real-time tracking of ballistic missile threats. Its infrared and visible light sensors enable early detection, enhancing the ability to intercept missiles during their boost or midcourse phases. As part of the Space Tracking and Surveillance System, STSS-1 contributes to layered defense strategies, improving national security. Its success demonstrated the feasibility of space-based missile tracking, influencing later systems like the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS).  

## Notable For  
- **First Demonstration Satellite:** Part of the STSS program’s initial operational prototypes.  
- **Dual-Sensor Capability:** Combines infrared and visible light sensors for comprehensive tracking.  
- **Military-Civilian Collaboration:** Jointly managed by the Missile Defense Agency and Space Systems Command.  

## Body  
### Launch and Deployment  
- Launched on **September 25, 2009**, aboard a **Delta II** rocket from **Cape Canaveral SLC-17B**.  
- Achieved a **low Earth orbit** with an altitude of ~1,357 km and inclination of 57.9864°.  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Manufacturers:**  
  - **Northrop Grumman Space Systems**: Primary contractor responsible for satellite integration.  
  - **Raytheon**: Supplied the infrared and visible light sensors.  
- **Orbital Data:**  
  - Perigee: 1,331 km, Apogee: 1,357 km (as of August 15, 2021).  
  - Orbital period: ~112 minutes.  

### Mission and Legacy  
- **Primary Role:** Track ballistic missiles for the **Missile Defense Agency**.  
- **Program Context:** Part of the **Space Tracking and Surveillance System**, a precursor to advanced missile defense satellites.  
- **Significance:** Validated space-based tracking technologies later adopted by SBIRS and other systems.  

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This entry is factually complete and adheres strictly to the provided source material.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/stss-1.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report
3. [Source](https://heavens-above.com/orbit.aspx?satid=35937)