The Space Development Agency (SDA) is gearing up for its second Launch of a satellite constellation in low-Earth orbit. Thirteen satellites from Tranche 0 of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture are scheduled to be launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base on August 31. The launch was originally planned for June but was delayed due to policy hurdles, delayed deliveries, and severe weather. The launch will be livestreamed on SpaceX’s YouTube page.

The 13 satellites include 10 data transport satellites manufactured by Lockheed Martin, one data transport satellite from York Space Systems, and two Missile Tracking Satellites from SpaceX. These satellites, combined with the 10 launched in April, will complete most of Tranche 0, which is referred to as the “warfighter immersion tranche.” This tranche will demonstrate capabilities that later tranches will operationalize, giving service members the opportunity to work with the systems and understand their capabilities.

In addition to the planned second launch, SDA officials have announced a change in plans to include a third launch before the end of 2023. This launch will involve four missile tracking satellites from L3Harris and will be a collaboration with the Missile Defense Agency. The purpose of this collaboration is to demonstrate the tracking capabilities of both agencies’ satellites on the same targets.

Since the first launch, SDA has decided to keep a York data transport satellite on the ground as a testbed. As a result, Tranche 0 will consist of 27 satellites in orbit, 19 for data transport and 8 for missile warning. The testbed will be used to develop and test software applications for future tranches.

While the second batch of Tranche 0 is being launched, the first batch is still undergoing testing. The data transport satellites have yet to maneuver to their final intended orbit or test their ability to relay data to the ground using the military’s tactical data network. Approval for these tests is pending due to policy issues.

The success of Tranche 0 will serve as a proof of concept for SDA’s unique approach, which involves rapid timelines, multiple small spacecraft, and increased contractor competition. The Pentagon and Congress are closely monitoring the progress of Tranche 0 as SDA plans to field new capabilities every two years and conduct a steady stream of launches.

Definitions:
– Space Development Agency (SDA): An organization responsible for developing and fielding new space capabilities for the Department of Defense.
– Low-Earth Orbit: The region of space around the Earth with an altitude between 160 and 2,000 kilometers.
– Tranche: A phase or stage of a larger project or program.
– Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture: SDA’s satellite constellation that aims to provide advanced capabilities for military personnel.
– Falcon 9: A two-stage orbital launch vehicle manufactured by SpaceX.
– Livestreamed: Broadcasted live over the internet.
– Lockhead Martin: An American aerospace and defense company.
– York Space Systems: A company specializing in developing small satellites.
– SpaceX: An American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation company.
– Missile Tracking Satellites: Satellites designed to track and monitor the trajectory of missiles.
– Link 16: A military tactical data network used for communication between sensors and shooters.
– Proof of Concept: A demonstration or test to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of an idea or concept.

Sources:
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