Lightweight Electro-Optical Space Sensor (LEOSS)

In September 2006 Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. was selected for phase A of the Lightweight Electro-Optical Space Sensor (LEOSS) program as prime contractor by the United States Air Force Research Laboratory, Kirtland Air Force Base, Albuquerque, N.M.

Ball Aerospace will study the utility of lightweight electro-optical technology and data products for search, acquisition, tracking, and characterization of resident space objects. The LEOSS program will serve as a pathfinder for future Department of Defense geosynchronous space situational awareness sensors. Subsequent phases of the program may include a flight demonstration. Broad Reach Engineering will provide Ball Aerospace with the electronics for the LEOSS program.

Ball Aerospace maintains an active research and development capability in the application of advanced lightweight materials. It will also apply space situational awareness experience from the Space-Based Space Surveillance program, and space electro-optical payload experience to this critical technology demonstration program.

The development of systems to collect resident space object information ensures safe operations in space. The LEOSS demonstration program represents Ball Aerospace's commitment to provide advanced technology systems that include precision optics and electro-optical systems for aerospace and defense applications.