USA-165 or XSS-11 (Experimental Satellite System-11) is a small, washing-machine-sized, low-cost spacecraft developed by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory’s Space Vehicles Directorate to test technology for proximity operations.
The Minotaur I launch system is derived from converted Minuteman II ICBMs and is used to launch small satellites for the US Government. The first and second stages, taken directly from decommissioned Minuteman missiles, are mated to the Orion third and fourth stages taken from the Pegasus XL air-launched rocket family. An optional hydrazine-powered fifth stage called HAPS can be used.The Minotaur I launch system is derived from converted Minuteman II ICBMs and is used to launch small satellites for the US Government. An optional hydrazine-powered fifth stage called HAPS can be used.
When is the Minotaur I | XSS-11 launch?
What rocket is being used for XSS-11?
Where is the Minotaur I | XSS-11 launching from?
What orbit is XSS-11 going to?
Who is launching XSS-11?
Can I watch the Minotaur I | XSS-11 launch live?
Mission Profile
XSS-11 was a Minotaur I mission operated by Orbital Sciences Corporation that lifted off from Space Launch Complex 8, Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA on April 11, 2005. The flight carried its payload on a test flight mission to Low Earth Orbit. The launch was a success.