# USA-282

> infrared-based early warning satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q48815355](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q48815355)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA-282)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/usa-282

## Summary
USA-282 is an infrared-based early warning satellite operated by the United States Air Force as part of the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS). Launched in 2018, it is designed to detect missile launches and provide strategic defense intelligence. The satellite is also known as SBIRS-GEO 4 and orbits in geostationary position.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: January 20, 2018  
- **Operator**: United States Air Force  
- **Manufacturer**: Lockheed Martin  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Atlas V 411  
- **Launch Site**: Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41  
- **Orbit**: Geostationary  
- **Spacecraft Bus**: A2100  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2018-009A  
- **Part of**: Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS)  
- **Alias**: SBIRS-GEO 4  

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of USA-282?  
A: USA-282 is an infrared early warning satellite designed to detect missile launches and provide critical defense intelligence for the U.S. military.  

### Q: Who built USA-282?  
A: It was manufactured by Lockheed Martin and launched by United Launch Alliance aboard an Atlas V 411 rocket.  

### Q: Where was USA-282 launched from?  
A: It was launched from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41 in Florida.  

## Why It Matters  
USA-282 plays a vital role in U.S. national security by providing early warning of missile threats through infrared detection. As part of the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS), it enhances strategic defense capabilities by monitoring global missile activity in real time. Its geostationary orbit ensures persistent surveillance over critical regions, making it a key asset for military and intelligence operations. The satellite’s advanced infrared sensors enable rapid threat assessment, which is crucial for decision-making in defense scenarios.  

## Notable For  
- **Infrared Early Warning**: Specializes in detecting missile launches using advanced infrared sensors.  
- **Geostationary Orbit**: Provides continuous coverage of specific regions from a fixed orbital position.  
- **Military Application**: Operated by the U.S. Air Force for strategic defense intelligence.  

## Body  
### Overview  
USA-282, also designated SBIRS-GEO 4, is a reconnaissance satellite designed for infrared-based missile detection. It is part of the broader Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS), a critical component of U.S. defense infrastructure.  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Manufacturer**: Lockheed Martin  
- **Spacecraft Bus**: A2100  
- **Orbit Type**: Geostationary  
- **Launch Mass**: Not publicly disclosed  

### Launch Details  
- **Date**: January 20, 2018  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Atlas V 411  
- **Launch Site**: Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41  
- **Operator**: United Launch Alliance  

### Operational Role  
- **Primary Function**: Early warning of ballistic missile launches  
- **Operator**: United States Air Force  
- **System Integration**: Part of SBIRS, which includes multiple satellites for global coverage

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report