Defense Satellite Communications System
The Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) is a United States Space Force satellite constellation that provides the United States with military communications to support globally distributed military users. Beginning in 2007, DSCS began being replaced by the Wideband Global SATCOM system. A total of 14 DSCS-III satellites were launched between the early 1980s and 2003. Two satellites were launched aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis in 1985 during the STS-51-J flight. As of 14 September 2021, six DSCS-III satellites were still operational. DSCS operations are currently run by the 4th Space Operations Squadron out of Schriever Space Force Base.
Illustration of the DSCS III satellite
Artist's rendering of a Transtage deploying IDSCP satellites
Illustration of a DSCS II satellite
United States Space Force
The United States Space Force (USSF) is the space service branch of the United States Armed Forces. Along with the Air Force, it is part of the Department of the Air Force, led by the secretary of the Air Force. Its military heads are the chief of space operations, who is one of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the vice chief of space operations.
Concept for a Space Force Rocket Cargo program conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations
Launch of the Army Ballistic Missile Agency's Explorer 1, America's first satellite
The X-20 Dyna Soar was intended to be the Air Force's first spaceplane
Cobra Dane radar at Shemya Air Force Base, Alaska
