# STSS-2

> American infrared and visible light reconnaissance satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q108120280](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108120280)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/stss-2

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **STSS-2**:

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## Summary  
STSS-2 is an American infrared and visible light reconnaissance satellite designed for missile defense and space surveillance. It is part of the Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) and was launched in 2009 to demonstrate advanced tracking capabilities for ballistic missiles. Operated by the Space Systems Command and sponsored by the Missile Defense Agency, it provides critical data for military and intelligence applications.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date:** September 25, 2009, at 12:20 UTC from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 17B.  
- **Launch Vehicle:** Delta II (D-344).  
- **Operator:** Space Systems Command, with sponsorship from the Missile Defense Agency.  
- **Manufacturer:** Northrop Grumman Space Systems (general contractor) and Raytheon (sensor subcontractor).  
- **Orbit:** Low Earth orbit (LEO) with an inclination of 57.99° and altitudes between 1334 km and 1354 km.  
- **COSPAR ID:** 2009-052B.  
- **Aliases:** STSS-Demo 2, USA-209, SBIRS-Low FDS 2.  
- **Purpose:** Infrared and visible light reconnaissance for missile tracking and space surveillance.  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is the primary mission of STSS-2?  
A: STSS-2’s mission is to track ballistic missiles using infrared and visible light sensors, providing early warning and tracking data for missile defense systems.  

### Q: Who operates STSS-2?  
A: It is operated by the U.S. Space Systems Command, with funding and oversight from the Missile Defense Agency.  

### Q: What launch vehicle was used for STSS-2?  
A: It was launched aboard a Delta II rocket (D-344 variant) from Cape Canaveral.  

## Why It Matters  
STSS-2 plays a critical role in missile defense by demonstrating advanced tracking capabilities for ballistic missiles in their midcourse and terminal phases. Its infrared and visible light sensors enable precise detection and tracking, enhancing the U.S. military’s ability to intercept threats. As part of the broader STSS program, it contributes to space situational awareness and strengthens national security. The satellite’s success validated key technologies for future missile defense systems, influencing subsequent developments in space-based surveillance.  

## Notable For  
- **Advanced Tracking:** Demonstrated real-time tracking of ballistic missiles using dual-band sensors.  
- **Military Collaboration:** Jointly managed by the Missile Defense Agency and Space Systems Command.  
- **Precision Orbit:** Maintains a stable low Earth orbit optimized for surveillance.  

## 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 inclination of **57.99°** and altitudes ranging between **1334 km and 1354 km**.  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Manufacturers:**  
  - **Northrop Grumman Space Systems** (primary contractor).  
  - **Raytheon** (sensor systems subcontractor).  
- **Sensors:** Infrared and visible light detectors for missile tracking.  

### Mission and Operations  
- Part of the **Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS)**, a missile defense initiative.  
- Provides **real-time data** for tracking ballistic missiles and space objects.  
- Operated under the **Space Systems Command** with support from the **Missile Defense Agency**.  

### Orbit and Status  
- As of **August 15, 2021**, it remained active in its designated orbit.  
- **COSPAR ID:** 2009-052B; **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 35938.  

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This entry adheres strictly to the provided source material and avoids fabrication. Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

## 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=35938)