Sensor payload for next-gen missile-defense satellites completes design review
NewsAugust 06, 2021
FALLS CHURCH, Va. and BOULDER, Colo. A new sensor payload developed by Northrop Grumman and Ball Aerospace that is intended to equip satellites that detect missile launches has passed a critical design review.
According to news from Northrop Grumman, the Critical Design Review (CDR) for the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) Geosynchronous (GEO) mission payload is now complete, which means that the Northrop Grumman and Ball Aerospace team will manufacture, integrate, and test the flight mission payload. The flight mission payload is expected to be delivered to satellite maker Lockheed Martin in 2023.
The Next-Gen OPIR -- the successor to the Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) -- is aimed at giving the U.S. Space Force a more resilient missile-warning system to counter current and emerging threats.
Northrop Grumman and Ball Aerospace are one of two teams selected by Lockheed Martin to develop a competitive payload design for the program; another payload design is under construction by Raytheon.
