Space Force Explores Satellite Operations at Lower Altitudes

The U.S. Space Force is considering whether to use developing approaches for satellite operations in very low Earth orbit, according to Air & Space Forces Magazine.

Key details

• Commercial companies, universities and research agencies are developing approaches for operating satellites at lower altitudes.
• The reported assessment covers potential use in both the near term and over a longer horizon.

Why it matters

The work spans commercial, academic and research organizations, giving the Space Force developments from several parts of the satellite sector to assess. Very low Earth orbit operations place satellites at lower altitudes than conventional low Earth orbit missions.