1992

MSTI-1 launched

Sensors themselves are perhaps the most important component of a satellite's payload. Under the Miniature Sensor Technology Integration (MSTI) program at Phillips Lab, scientists experimented with low-cost integrated sensor technologies to support theater missile launch detection and tracking. MSTI, in a series of satellites, demonstrated for the first time that small spacecraft could be placed in orbit for less than $50 million within 12-24 months. Near-term MSTI objectives demonstrated theater-class ballistic missile detection and tracking abilities and collected critically needed below-the-horizon sensor background data to support other space-based infrared programs.