US Space Force Retires Classified Surveillance Satellite & Orders Replacement

A geosynchronous surveillance satellite, part of the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) operated by the U.S. Space Force, has been retired after completing an exceptional eight-year mission in orbit.

The Space Systems Command officially confirmed the deactivation of GSSAP Space Vehicle 2, which had been in operation since 2014.

"GSSAP 2 has run through the passivation and end of life checklist. It is now in a graveyard orbit" - Lieutenant Colonel Greg Fertig, Deputy Program Manager at the Space Systems Command’s GSSAP Program Office

The GSSAP program, a classified initiative, became public in 2014 after being declassified by the Pentagon. Comprising a total of six satellites, including GSSAP 2, the program's primary objective is to monitor activities and objects in geosynchronous orbit, approximately 22,000 miles above Earth. The satellites are engineered to be maneuverable, enabling them to perform rendezvous and proximity operations to gather close-up data about satellites and objects of interest.

GSSAP 2, manufactured by Northrop Grumman, exceeded its projected lifespan of seven years, contributing invaluable surveillance data to U.S. Space Force operations. However, as more countries deploy assets in geosynchronous orbit, the demand for GSSAP satellites has surged.

Although GSSAP satellites are designed to operate for up to seven years, meticulous planning is required to minimize fuel consumption during maneuvers. The US Space Force is looking to address this limitation by developing refuelable satellites, allowing military operators greater flexibility in maneuvering.

The Space Systems Command has announced plans for experiments and demonstrations of in-orbit satellite refueling, aiming to enhance satellite longevity and maneuverability.

The Space Force has placed an order for two more GSSAP satellites, designated GSSAP 7 and 8, from Northrop Grumman, aiming to meet the escalating demand for geosynchronous surveillance assets.

The successful retirement of GSSAP 2 marks another milestone in the U.S. Space Force's efforts to ensure the safety and security of assets in geosynchronous orbit, bolstering the nation's ability to monitor and respond to activities in this vital area of space.