The Near Field Infrared Experiment (NFIRE) was sponsored by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) to collect high and low resolution images to improve understanding of missile exhaust plume observations and plume-to-rocket body discrimination to assist in the development of future ICBM boost phase intercept systems. In addition, NFIRE demonstrated laser communications between satellites in cooperation with the German TerraSAR-X satellite.
Launched on April 24, 2007 aboard an Orbital Minotaur I rocket, the NFIRE satellite carried an onboard track sensor payload and a laser communication terminal. General Dynamics AIS (acquired by Orbital in April 2010) was the system integrator, responsible for the design and manufacture of the spacecraft, integration of the payload, environmental testing, configuration of two ground-based mission operations centers, and one year of on-orbit operations support.
Performance:
Orbit: 450x450 km, 49.0° inclination
Launch mass: 483 kg
Solar Arrays: 516 W, body mounted
Stabilization: 3-axis, zero momentum
Mission Life: 2 Years
Status:
Operational, launched April 24, 2007 aboard a Minotaur I rocket.
Customer:
U.S. Missile Defense Agency
Mission:
Gather high resolution missile defense phenomonolgy data
Quick Facts:
During its mission, NFIRE’s instruments observed and provided data on the launch of two Orbital Minotaur II long-range target rockets
