AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

a The semi-major axis of the elliptical path traced by any satellite in orbit about the earth...see "Keplerian elements"

A ALFA {military phonetics alphabet}Þ amberÞ ampere(s)Þ International space object designator suffix usually reserved for "payload."

AA administrative arrangement {Thule AB}Þ affirmative actionÞ antiaircraftÞ associate administrator {NASA}Þ attack assessment

A/A air-to-air {TAB93-1}

AAA antiaircraft artillery

AAACT all-aspect adversary counter-tactics {TAB93-1}

AABCP advanced airborne command post

AAC acquisition advice code {AFSCN}Þ allied advisory committeeÞ assignment availability code {AFMPC}

AACB aeronautics and astronautics coordinating board

AACC airborne alternate command center

AADOC alternate air defense operations center {TW/AA}

AAF auxiliary airfield {ASCN}

AAFB Andersen AFB, GuamÞ Andrews AFB MD

AAFE aeroassist flight experiment...a reentry vehicle that will simulate the atmospheric flight phase of, and provide environmental and design data for, an aeroassisted orbital transfer vehicle (AOTV) returning from geosynchronous orbit

AAFES Army and Air Force Exchange Service

AAM air-to-air missile

AAMD air-to-air missile defense {TAB93-1}Þ automated air movement data {C4SMP}

AAMSS Arinc aeronautical mobile satellite service...a proposed integrated comsat system to provide air surveillance and data link comm for air traffic control and air carrier use

AAQS ambient air quality standards {EPA}

AAR after-action review {AFSPC/SP}

AAT anomaly analysis team {20 AF}

AAV advanced aerospace vehicle...obsolete, replaced by national aerospace plane (NASP)

AAW antiair warfare

ABACUS austere backup communications unmanned system {C4SMP}

abandon and replace...a satellite replacement concept in which failed satellites are replaced with spare satellites. Proliferation, the alternative, is a replacement concept in which the spare satellites are placed in orbit at the time of constellation deployment as inactive spares and activated when needed.

ABCI Advanced Business Communications, Inc...an aerospace firm taken over by Hughes

ABG air base group

ABL airborne laser

ABNCP airborne command post

ABQ Albuquerque, NM

ABR aero ballistic rocket {Lockheed}

ABREK Soviet military monkey launched on COSMOS 1514, who now resides at the Soviet Institute of Medical and Biological Problems.

ABS agile beam systemÞ air base squadron, e.g., 1012 ABS, Thule AB GLÞ ammonia boiler system

A/C air conditioningÞ aircraftÞ aircraft commander

ACAT acquisition category {NAVSPACECOM}

ACC Air Combat Command...merger of SAC, TAC, MAC elementsÞ air control centre {TW/AA}Þ area control center

ACCS AFSPC cellular communications systemÞ airborne command control squadron {AFSPC/DOM}Þ air command and control system {NATO}

ACDS Assistant Chief of Defence Staff {MOD}

ACE agile control experiment...to demonstrate line-of-sight stabilization for scalable optical structures in spaceÞ alternate command element {TW/AA}Þ attitude control electronics {DSCS}

ACEM AFSCN communications enhancement and modernization

Ace of Hearts - French echocardiograph...an improved version of the system flown by French astronauts on Salyut 7 and STS-51G. A further joint Soviet/French mission is planned.

ACES acoustic containerless experiment system...a Shuttle demonstration to obtain early microgravity tests of gas transport phenomena in a 3-axis levitation furnace

ACIG aircrew combat information guide {AFSPC/DOX}

ACINT acoustic intelligence {OPSEC}

ACM air combat maneuver(ing) {TAB93-1}Þ asbestos-containing material {ECAMP}

ACMI air combat and maneuvering instrumentation {TAB93-1}

ACN authorization change notice

ACOC air command operations center {TW/AA}Þ area communications operations center {DCA}

ACOT advanced communications-computer officer training {AFSPC/LK}

ACP alternate command post {AFSPC/DOM}

ACPS architectural compatibility paint scheme {HQ USAF/XOO}

ACS administrative communications services {CSOC}Þ afloat correlation system {NAVSPACECOM}Þ alternate command system {AFSCN}Þ attitude control system

AC2S Alaskan command and control system {C4SMP}

ACSU antenna configuration switching unit {AFSCN}

ACT ACE (attitude control electronics) command timing {DSCS}Þ acoustic charge transport...a gallium arsenide device that can be used as a hybrid signal processor. Promises greater dynamic range, linearity and bandwidth, and lower noise.Þ American college test

ACTS advanced communications technology satellite...a NASA testbed for Ka-band (30/20 GHz) time division multiple access (TDMA) communications technology. Managed by Langley Research Center, being developed by Martin's Astro Electronics.

ACV armored combat vehicle

ACWG AFSPC CSOC working group

Ada DOD's standard computer software language, named for Augusta Ada Byron (1815-1852), Countess of Lovelace, daughter of Lord Byron and Annabella Milbanke Byron. Ms Byron worked with Charles Babbage and his "difference engine" (computer) and developed a program to compute Bernoulli numbers. She thus became known as the first computer programmer. {Encyclopedia of Computer Science and Engineering, 1983}

ADA air defense artillery {C4SMP}

ADARS advanced defensive avionics response system {AFSPC/DO}Þ automated data analysis and reduction system {20AF}

ADC air defense center {BMEWS Site III}Þ analog-to-digital converterÞ area defense counsel {UCMJ}

ADCCP advanced data communications control procedure {TW/AA}Þ advanced digital communications control protocol

ADCCS air defense command and control system {C4SMP}

ADCOM Aerospace Defense Command...obsolete, now USSPACECOM

ADCOMS advanced communication subsystem {AFSC2S}

ADDISS advanced deployable imagery support system {NAVSPACECOM}

ADE air defense emergency {C4SMP}

ADF air defense fighter {TAB93-1}Þ automatic direction finder

ADFS automated digital facsimile subsystem {DMSP}

ADI air defense initiative {C4SMP}Þ attitude directional indicator {TAB93-1}

ADIC aerospace defense intelligence center {TW/AA}

ADIZ air defense identification zone {TW/AA}

ADL active duty list {AFMPC}

ADM acquisition decision memorandum {AFSPC/XP}Þ admiralÞ advanced development model

ADMF ARTS development and modification facility {AFSCN}

ADNET anti-drug network {C4SMP}

ADOC air defense operations center {TW/AA}

ADPS automated data processing system {CSOC}

ADS advanced decommutation system {DSCS}Þ air defense squadron {BMEWS Site III}Þ attitude determination system {Milstar}Þ automated data system {AFSC2S}

ADSF automatic directional solidification furnace...a Shuttle technology demonstration of directional solidification of magnetic materials, immiscible and IR detection materials

ADSI air defense systems integrator {AFSPC/DOX}

ADT annual daily traffic {EIS}

ADW air defense warning {TW/AA}

A&E architectural and engineering

AEA Association for European Astronauts...a professional association formed by European astronauts to represent their interests in organizing future manned space missions and to provide a forum for exchanges of information

AEAO airborne emergency action officer {STRATCOM}

AEC AFSCN executive councilÞ Atomic Energy Commission...obsolete, now Energy Research and Development Agency (ERDA)

AECC automated entry control card {CCAFS}

AECS advanced entry control system

AEF Aerospace Education Foundation {Air Force Association}

AEG annotated error guide {Milstar}

AEHR automated equipment historical records {AFSCN}

AEI audio end instrument {AFSCN}

Aelita A multi-functional clinical instrument carried on Soviet space stations to record cosmonaut physiological parameters.

AEM arsenal exchange model {20AF}

AEOS advanced electro-optical sensor {TW/AA}

AERIE aerial intercept element...a Rockwell project employing a positioning missile that carries six small interceptors; has a 186 mi altitude reach

Aeros advanced earth resources observational system...a 3-axis, body-stabilized, 600 lb Earth remote-sensing satellite. Provides stereoscopic imagery using solid-state sensors without moving parts. Low (80 m) and high resolution (43 m) linear detector arrays. Sun-synchronous polar orbit at 917 km altitude and 99.1° inclination.

Aerosat aeronautical satellite...a joint U.S./European Space Agency/Canadian program (late-1960s/early-1970s) to build a satellite for aircraft applications. Terminated in the mid-1970s.

Aerosol Salyut-7 experiment to obtain data on luminescent clouds, gas composition of the atmosphere, and its optical and spectral characteristics.

Aerospatiale - Societe Nationale Industrielle Aerospatiale...a French aerospace manufacturer

AET annual ethics training {OGE}

AETC Air Education and Training Command...formerly ATC; familiarly called "Air, Etc."

AEW airborne early warning {C4SMP}

A&F accounting and financeÞ arm(ing) and fuze(ing) {20 AF}

AFA (U.S.) Air Force AcademyÞ Air Force Association

AFAMPE Air Force automated message processing exchange...an interface with the Air Force AUTODIN message network

AFAMRL Air Force Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433-6573

AFATL Air Force Armament Laboratory (AFMC), Eglin AFB FL 32542-5000

AFBCMR Air Force board for correction of military records

AFC area frequency coordinatorÞ automatic frequency control {AFSCN}

AFCA Air Force commercialization agreement {AFSPC/DOP}Þ Air Force Communications Agency

AFCCB Air Force configuration control board

AFCENT Allied Forces Central Europe

AFCERT Air Force computer emergency response team {AFSPC/SC}

AFC2M2 Air Force command and control modernization methodology {AFSC2S}

AFC2S Air Force command and control system {AFSC2S}

AFCSC Air Force Cryptologic Support Center

AFDFS Air Force department fire service {BMEWS Site III}

AFDTC Air Force Development Test Center, 101 West D Ave, Suite 117, Eglin AFB FL 32542-5495

AFE American flight echocardiograph...collects data on cardiovascular changes in the Shuttle crew

AFELO Air Force Engineering Liaison Office {HULA}

AFEMS Air Force equipment management system {BMEWS Site III}

AFETR Air Force Eastern Range...obsolete, now Eastern Space and Missile Center (ESMC)

AFEWC Air Force Electronic Warfare Center

AFG Air Force group {C4SMP}

AFHRA Air Force Historical Research Agency

AFI Air Force instruction

AFIA Air Force Inspection Agency, Norton AFB CA 92409-5000

AFIC Air Force Intelligence Command...formerly Electronic Security Command, now Air Intelligence Agency

AFIS American Forces Information Service

AFISC Air Force Inspection and Safety Center

AFLC Air Force Logistics Command...obsolete, merged with AFSC in 1992 to form AFMC

AFMC Air Force Materiel Command...1992 merger of AFSC and AFLC, provides cradle-to-grave engineering support and logistics management of Air Force systems

AFMPS Air Force mission planning system {AFSPC/DOX}

AFNET Air Force integrated telecommunications network {50 LSS}

AFNORTH Allied Forces Northern Europe

AFO accounting and finance office

AFOS automation of field operations services {DMSP}

AFOSH Air Force Occupational Safety and Health

AFOTEC Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center, Kirtland AFB NM 87117-7001...independently tests systems before they are turned over to operational commands; formerly AFTEC

AFOTECP Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center pamphlet

AFPD Air Force policy directive

AFPOA Air Force Personnel Operations Agency

AFQA Air Force quality assurance

AFRAMS Air Force recoverable assembly management system {BMEWS Site III}

AFRED Air Force Readiness Command

AFRTS Armed Forces Radio and Television Services {ASCN}

AFSA Air Force Safety Agency, Norton AFB CA 92409-7001Þ Air Force Sergeants Association

AFSAA Air Force Studies and Analysis Agency

AFSATCOM - Air Force satellite communications (system)...provides channelized, low-data-rate teletype communications for emergency action message (EAM) dissemination, CINC netting, force direction (C2 of nuclear-capable forces, including bombers, missiles, submarines and theater nuclear weapons) and force report-back. Has no dedicated satellites; uses UHF transponders on host satellites.

AFSC Air Force specialty codeÞ Air Force Systems Command...obsolete, merged with AFLC in 1992 to form AFMCÞ Armed Forces Staff College, Norfolk VA 23511...AFSC Pub 1, "Joint Staff Officer's Guide," publisher

AFSCF Air Force Satellite Control Facility...obsolete, now SMC/CU Det 2

AFSCN Air Force satellite control network...worldwide network of USAF ground stations and control centers that provide TT&C services to DOD satellites. The AFSCN consists of satellite operations centers, scheduling and C2 centers at Falcon AFB CO, and Onizuka AFB CA; remote tracking stations around the world; the NAVSTAR Global Positioning System network with a master control station at Falcon AFB and ground antennas and monitor stations around the world; and the DMSP control network with a multipurpose satellite operations center (MPSOC) at Offutt AFB, NE, and the Fairchild satellite operations center (FSOC) at Fairchild AFB, WA. The network is operated by the 50th Space Wing (AFSPC).

AFSCO Air Force Security Clearance Office

AFSCR Air Force Systems Command regulation...obsolete

AFSC2S AFSPC command and control system

AFSFC Air Force Space Forecast Center, Falcon AFB CO 80912-5000

- Det 2: Sagamore Hill Solar Observatory MA

- Det 3: Ramey Solar Observatory PR

- Det 4: Holloman Solar Observatory NM

- Det 5: Palehua Solar Observatory HI

- Det 8: San Vito Solar Observatory, Italy

- Det 9: Learmonth Solar Observatory, Australia

AFSIP Air Force satellite intelligence program {TW/AA}

AFSOUTH Allied Forces Southern Europe

AFSPA Air Force Security Police Agency, Kirtland AFB NM 87117-6001

AFSPACECOM - see "AFSPC"

AFSPC Air Force Space Command (formerly AFSPACECOM), Peterson AFB CO 80914-5001. "Guardians of the High Frontier." Component of USSPACECOM. Approximately 11,000 personnel. The operational advocate for USAF space activities.

AFSPCR Air Force Space Command regulation...formerly AFSPACECOMR

AFSSM Air Force systems security memorandum

AFSTC Air Force Space Technology Center (AFMC), Kirtland AFB NM 87117...formed Oct 82

AFTCO Air Force Telecommunications Certification Office, 203 W Losey St, Scott AFB IL 62225-5219

AFTMS Air Force training management system {50 CTS}

AFTRC Air Force technical reference codes {AF/SC}

AFWCCS Air Force wing command and control system {AFSC2S}

AFWTR Air Force Western Test Range (obsolete, now Western Space and Missile Center (WSMC))

A/G air-to-ground

AGA Ascension ground antenna {GPS}

AGARD Advisory Group for Aerospace Research and Development...NATO scientific advisory board under the authority of the NATO Military Committee

AGC automatic gain control

Agena LMSC booster operational since 1959. Agena-D operational since 1962.

AGI auxiliary general intelligence {C4SMP}Þ Intelligence collection ship.

AGL above ground level

AGMC Aerospace Guidance and Metrology Center (AFMC), Newark AFB OH 43057-5475

AGR Active Guard and Reserve

AHF adaptive high frequency

AI action itemÞ air intercept {TAB93-1}Þ artificial intelligence...capabilities that enable a computer to learn from experience, to be able to make logical leaps to conclusions in the absence of complte data, and to be able to make judgmental decisions

AIA Aerospace Industries AssociationÞ Air Intelligence Agency, San Antonio TX 78243-5000... formerly AFIC

AIAC Air Industries Association of Canada...represents Canadian aerospace and communications companies employing approximately 45,000 people

AIAWS automated intelligence and attack warning system {C4SMP}

AICC air intercept control common {C4SMP}

AICU advanced interface control unit {C4SMP}

AICUZ air installation compatible use zone {EPA}

AIDAA Associazione Italiana di Aeronautica e Astronautica

AIDS acquired immune deficiency syndrome

AIE antenna interface equipment {AFSCN}

AIGFC Ascension Island Game Fishing Club {ASCN}

AIL ARTS integration laboratory

AIM action item master {CSOC plan}Þ air intercept missileÞ airmen information manual {AFSPC/DOG}

AIMS advanced inertial measurement system {20AF}

AIO Acquisition Integration Office {ESD}

AIQ acronym intelligence quotient...pronounced "ache" {GT}

AIRS advanced inertial reference system {20AF}

AIS airborne intercept systemÞ Ascension Island Services {ASCN}Þ automated information system {50 SPS}

AIU AFSPC IDHS upgrade {TW/AA}

AIWO aerospace intelligence watch officer...of the NORAD/USSPACECOM CIW

AKA also known as {50 SPS}

ALASAT Air-launched antisatellite. U.S. ASAT program. Langley AFB VA operating location. F-15 launcher, short-range attack missile (SRAM) lower stage, Altair III solid propellant second stage (fourth stage of Scout), miniature vehicle warhead. First flight test 21 Jan 84. Destroyed P78-1 satellite 13 Sep 85. Congressional moratorium canceled this program in 1987.

albedo The ratio of the intensity of light reflected from a body to that received from the sun; important to the thermal design of spacecraft in low earth orbits.

ALCC airborne launch control center {TW/AA}

Alcoa Aluminum Company of America...developing a directional solidification alloy experiment to fly on Shuttle

ALCOR ARPA (Advanced Research Projects Agency) Lincoln C-band observables radar...aka ARPA-Lincoln coherent radar

ALCS airborne launch control system {20 AF}

ALCSC airborne launch control system computer {20 AF}

ALE atmospheric luminosity experiment...investigates the ion chemistry of the atmosphere and Shuttle Orbiter surfaces

ALERT attack and launch early reporting to theater {TALON SHIELD}

ALFA Military phonetics alphabet call sign for the letter "A."

Alpha laser Chemical laser...see "Zenith Star"

ALS advanced laser systemÞ advanced launch system...see "HLLV"Þ airlift squadronÞ airman leadership school

ALSOH automated L-band state of health {GPS}

ALT alternateÞ altitudeÞ approach and landing test {Shuttle}Þ altitude...usually expressed in nautical miles or kilometers:

ALTAIR ARPA (Advanced Research Projects Agency) long-range tracking and instrumentation radar...see "SSN"

ALU arithmetic and logic unit

ALW airlift wing

AMANA all Mach and no azimuth {PL/CV}

AMD Aerospace Medical Division (AFMC), Brooks AFB TX 78235-5000Þ air movement data {C4SMP}

AMEND amendment

AMF apogee motor firing {NATO IVB}

AMH automated message handler {AFSC2S}

AMIS advanced microwave imaging sensor...see "System Z"Þ air movement information system {C4SMP}

AMP air mission processor {C4SMP}Þ amplifierÞ angular measurement precisionÞ annual materiel plan {DLA}Þ authentication message processor {DMSP}

AMPTE active magnetospheric particle tracer explorer...joint US-UK-West German project to study the physical interactions (transfer of mass) from solar wind to the earth's magnetic field (magnetosphere). Consists of three satellites (Charged Compositive Explorer (CCE), Ion Release Module (IRM), United Kingdom Subsatellite (UKS)) launched 16 Aug 84 on a Delta 3924 booster from Cape Canaveral. Data from the three satellites broadcast to research centers in Pasadena CA; Oberpfaffenhofen, West Germany; and Chelton, England.

AMR acquisition management review...AF/IG term formerly called SAMI

AMRAAM advanced medium-range air-to-air missile {TAB93-1}

AMROC American Rocket Company, 5126 Ralston St, Ventura CA 93003

AMS advanced mapping spectrometerÞ African Mediterranean System...Israeli domestic telecommunications systemÞ apogee and maneuvering stage...proposed liquid bipropellant upper stage for use with transfer orbit stage (TOS) for geosynchronous orbit insertion (1130 lb payload capability) or other high-altitude missions; compatible with Shuttle, Titan and Atlas

AMSC advanced military spaceflight capability...to provide manned operations in transatmospheric and low Earth orbitsÞ American Satellite Company {Contel ASC}

AMSSA assured mission support space architecture...Feb 91 USSPACECOM study

AMWC alternate MWC (missile warning center) {C4SMP}

AN Army/Navy

- AN/FPQ-6 is a high-accuracy monopulse tracking radar capable of radiating 4.0 megawatts of RF power in a 0.4° beam

- AN/FPS 16-1, 16-2 are C-band monopulse tracking radars capable of radiating one megawatt of RF power in a 1.2° beam

- AN/FPS 16-4 is a metric improved precision instrumentation radar

- AN/MPS-36 is a monopulse tracking radar capable of radiating up to one megawatt of RF power in a 1.0° beam

- AN/TPQ-18 is a high-accuracy monopulse tracking radar capable of radiating up to 2.5 megawatts of RF power in a 0.4° beam

A/N alphanumeric {DMSP}

AND active nutation damping {NATO IVB}

Andean Andean consortium direct broadcast satellite

ANDVT advanced narrowband digital voice terminal {MJCS-36-89}

ANGB Air National Guard Base, e.g., Buckley ANGB CO

Anik Commercial Canadian comsat ("Anik" means "little brother")...PAM-D upper stage, HS-376 bus, Anik-C Ku-band, Anik-D C-band; first launch May 1975

Anikast Telesat transportable TV earth station designed to establish a satellite link within 20 minutes after a broadcast crew arrives at a site; uses Ku-band Anik-C satellites.

ANL Argonne National Laboratory, Lakewood CO {ECAMP}

ANMM AFSPC national mission model {AFSPC/DOP}

anomaly Satellite anomalies are tracked within 50 SW by "Class" and reported to AFSPC by "Type":

- Class I: A routine spacecraft problem that is well understood and easily corrected; no mission impacts; includes "glitches."

- Class II: A non-routine spacecraft problem that has been anticipated or previously experienced. Contingency pass plans created and approved for use with Class II anomalies should return the satellite to a nominal operating configuration. If a nominal configuration does not result, the anomaly is upgraded to Class III.

- Class III: A non-routine spacecraft problem not anticipated with a contingency plan. These anomalies are not necessarily understood and are not common. In most cases Class III anomalies will threaten either the safety of the satellite or its mission.

- Type 1: No mission or satellite bus impact; includes "glitches" and anticipated seasonal abnormalities. Operational crews have existing procedures to correct Type 1 anomalies. Type 1 anomalies are normally not reported unless the on-duty flight commander deems it necessary.

- Type 2: Impacts satellite bus only, normally results in swapping a satellite component, reconfiguring the satellite, or using non-standard procedures to correct the problem.

- Type 3: Critical anomalies that impact mission or the life of the satellite and require immediate action to avoid serious damage to the satellite's health or its ability to perform its mission.

ANR Alaskan NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) region

ANS atmospheric Netherlands satellite...designed to study the sky in ultraviolet and X-ray from above the atmosphere

ANSSC alternate NORAD space surveillance center {NAVSPACECOM}

Antares Direct-broadcast satellite developed by Antares Satellite Corporation, Denver CO.

Antigone An advanced technology research program for the development of a laser-guided electron beam weapon loitering at ionospheric altitudes (80-600 km) and able to intercept and destroy ICBMs at ranges of more than 1000 miles.

ANWC alternate national warning center {C4SMP}

A/O as of, e.g., A/O 15 May 93

AOA abort-once-around {Shuttle}Þ airborne optical adjunct...part of Army non-nuclear ground-based BMD program (see "ERIS" and "HEDS"). Airborne optical sensors used with ground-based radars to track ballistic missiles while they are still above the atmosphere. Testing involves an 86 ft-long cupola atop a Boeing 767.Þ angle of attack

AOC air officer commanding {USAFA}Þ assistant operations controller {AFSCN}

AOCS attitude and orbital control subsystem {NATO IVB}Þ autonomous onboard command system {14AF}

AOF airfield operations flight {AFSPC/DOG}

AOO area of operations {C4SMP}

AOS acquisition of signal {NASA}

AOSP advanced onboard signal processor

AOTV aeroassisted orbital transfer vehicle

AP air publication {BMEWS Site III}Þ ammonium perchlorateÞ Area Pacific, e.g., APO APÞ array processorÞ Associated PressÞ avionics package

APAT advanced portable analysis tool {DSP}

APB acquisition program baseline...AFLC equivalent of AFSC's PMDÞ all points bulletin

APC armored personnel carrierÞ automatic power controller {GPS}Þ average propensity to consume {ERIS}

APCC alternate processing and correlation center {TW/AA}

APCD air pollution control district {EPA}

APDP acquisition professional development program...the knife in Von Karman's back

APE aurora photography experiment...Shuttle experiment to understand the geographic extent and dynamics of the aurora

APEC Asian-Pacific Economic Coalition {GT}

APF appropriated funds

aphelion The furthest point from the sun in a solar orbit.

API application programming interface {AFSC2S}

APL Applied Physics Laboratory, Johns Hopkins UniversityÞ automated position locator...Sandia system using Transit to update dead reckoning navigation based on magnetometer and odometer data

APM acquisition program managerÞ antenna pointing mechanism...a device that gives a spacecraft antenna a finer degree of pointing control than that offered by the body of the spacecraft itself

apoapsis The point in an orbit furthest from the center of the gravitational attraction.

APOD aerial port of debarkation {BMEWS Site III}

Apollo program - The first program to land men on the moon (20 Jul 69: Armstrong, Aldrin, Collins).

APP application portability profile

Apple Indian test comsat built by ISAC for ISRO. Ariane launch 19 Jun 81.

APS airborne pointing systemÞ antenna positioning subsystem {DMSP}Þ array processor systemÞ automatic phasing systemÞ auxiliary propulsion subsystem {Milstar}

APT acquisition, pointing and trackingÞ application productivity tool {AFSC2S}Þ automatic picture transmission {DMSP}

APVO Soviet Aviation of Air Defense

AQAE area quality assurance evaluator

AQAP air quality attainment plan {EPA}

AQCR air quality control region {EPA}

AQMP air quality management plan {EPA}

Arabsat Medium-sized multimission C/S-band comsat for ASCO. Solid apogee rocket and 12 thrusters for orbit control. Used for telecommunications relay by the Arab League nations. Encrypted primary ground control transmissions from Dihrab, near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Secondary ground control in Tunis.

- Arabsat-1A was launched 8 Feb 85 on an Ariane 3 to a 19°E longitude position. 25-5/6 GHz, 1-4/2.5 GHz transponders. Experienced multiple gyro failures.

- Arabsat-1B was launched Jun 85 on STS 51-G to a 26°E longitude position. 25-4/6 GHz, 1-4/2.5 GHz transponders.

ARAT AFSCN ranking assessment tool...used in the APWG deficiency ranking process

ARC advanced research centerÞ aggregation of red cells...Shuttle study of red cells and blood viscosity under low-G conditionsÞ air reserve component {AFSPC/DP}Þ alcohol rehabilitation center {AFSPC/DP}Þ American Red CrossÞ Ames Research Center {NASA}Þ acquisition/report back/crosslink processor {Milstar}

ARDC Air Research and Development Command...AFSC predecessor

ARE alert readiness exercise {20 AF}Þ analog ranging equipment...works with the DRE (digital ranging equipment) to measure the slant range to a satelliteÞ atmospheric research equipment

AREFW air refueling wing

ArF argon fluoride

ARF aquatic research facility {NASA}Þ ASTRO report form {22 SOPS}

Argensat Argentine communications satellite

Argos Joint NASA/NOAA/CNES satellite-based location and data collection and relay system. Uses repeater equipment carried by Tiros-N.

ARGS advanced RADEC ground system {DSP}

argument of perigee - The angular measurement made from the ascending node, in the direction of satellite travel, to the point of perigee on the orbital path. This orients the orbit within the orbital plane.

ARI Airpower Research Institute (CADRE), Maxwell AFB AL

Ariane Family of French launch vehicles launched from French Guiana Space Centre, Kourou, French Guiana. Aerospatiale rocket, first launch 24 Dec 79. First follow-on Ariane 3 launched 4 Aug 84. Second launch pad operational 1985. First Ariane 4 launch (15 Jun 88) carried Meteosat P2, Pan American Satellite-1 (PAS-1) and Amsat 3C stacked on a Spelda using an AR 44L. Ariane 5 (IOC 1996; 6,800 kg to GTO) is a follow-on to Ariane 4. Ariane 4 series:

- AR 44P: four solid strap-ons (3,000 kg to GTO)

- AR 42L: two liquid strap-ons (3,200 kg to GTO)

Arianespace SA - Evry, France, firm that took over Ariane operations from European Space Agency (ESA) May 84 (launch of Ariane 9).

Arinc Aeronautical Radio, Inc...jointly owned by U.S. air carriers. Provides air-ground voice communications and data link services. Studying future use of integrated communication satellite system.

ARR alert readiness rate {20 AF}

ARS Alaskan radar system {TW/AA}Þ ALTAIR recording systemÞ associate reserve squadron {7 SOPS}Þ attitude reference system

ARSA airport radar service area {AFSPC/DOG}

Arsene French amateur spacecraft

ARSPACE Army Space Command...component of USSPACECOM and operational advocate for U.S. Army space activities

ARSPOC (U.S.) Army Space Command operations center {TW/AA}

ART air reserve technicianÞ alarm response team {50 SPS}Þ alert readiness test {20 AF}Þ amateur radio transceiver...establishes communications between Shuttle radio operator and operator on the ground

ARTCC air route traffic control center {FAA}

ARTIS automatic terminal information system {AFSPC/DOG}

ARTS automated remote tracking station...two-part acquisition program to cut operating costs and manpower requirements for remote tracking stations (RTSs) worldwide

ARU acknowledge receipt and understanding {AFSPOC}Þ associate reserve unit {1 SOPS}Þ attitude reference unit

A/S air-to-surface {TAB93-1}

AS3 advanced safety sensor suite {14 AF}

ASA Army Space Agency...activated Aug 86, replaced by Army Space Command Apr 88Þ Austrian Space Agency...coordinates national space program under aegis of Federal Ministry for Science and Research

ASALM advanced strategic air-launched missile {NAVSPACECOM}

ASAP aerospace safety automation programÞ Ariane structure for auxiliary payloadsÞ as soon as possible

ASAR advanced synthetic aperture radar

ASC advanced satellite control {AFSCN}Þ Aeronautical Systems CenterÞ allied support completionÞ allowance source code {AFSCN}Þ American Satellite Company {Contel ASC}...provides commercial communications via satellite to CONUS, Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico; operates in C and Ku bandsÞ area surveillance centerÞ AUTODIN switching center

- ASC-1 launched 27 Aug 85 on STS-5lI, used a PAM upper stage to 128°W longitude; C/Ku-band, first commercial comsat to use encrypted command links

- ASC-2 launched Dec 88 to 81°W longitude

ASCAS automated security clearance approval system {50 SPS}

ascending node - The point on the equatorial plane where an earth-orbiting body passes from south latitude to north latitude. {AIAA, 12 Jun 84}

ASCM antiship cruise missile

ASCN Ascension Island...GPS site maintained by 45 SW (CSR's "Center Technical Service Contract")

ASCNG Ascension Island ground antenna {GPS}

ASCO Arab Satellite Communication Organization...two-nation organization headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Arabsat sponsor

ASCS advanced satellite control segment {NAVSPACECOM}

ASD Aeronautical Systems Division (AFMC), Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433Þ assistant secretary of defense {DOD}

ASDPC advanced satellite data processing and control {CSOC}

ASDS air situation display system {C4SMP}

ASE airborne support equipment...reusable electronics mounted on a payload cradle, provides an interface to the ShuttleÞ allowable steering error {TAB93-1}

ASEAN Association of Southeast Asian Nations

ASETA Andean State Telecommunications Enterprises Association...providers of telecommunications services for Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela; Condor sponsor

ASF activation support facility {CSOC}Þ auxiliary storage facility...obsolete, now TDC

ASM air-to-surface missileÞ anti-ship missile {NAVSPACECOM}

ASMC American Society of Military Comptrollers

ASO air surveillance officerÞ Australian Space Office...executive body for space industry policy and programs execution

ASOC air support operations center {C4SMP}Þ MMC Satellite Operations Center, East Windsor NJ

ASP acquisition strategy panel {AFSPC/PK}Þ AFSCN scheduling programÞ airborne surveillance platformÞ altitude sensor package...reimbursable Hitchhiker-G Shuttle payload

ASPADOC alternate SPADOC (Space Defense Operations Center)...at NAVSPASUR, Dahlgren VA

ASPS annular suspension and pointing system

ASR acquisition strategy report {AFSPC/XP}Þ activation status review {CSOC}Þ airport surveillance radar {AFSPC/DOG}Þ AMOS spectral radiometer {NAVSPACECOM}Þ automatic send/receive {AFSCN}Þ automatic speech recognition

ASRM abort solid rocket motor {Shuttle}Þ advanced solid rocket motor...proposed Shuttle SRM upgrade, LMSC the prime contractor, Aerojet's ASRM Division the subcontractor

ASSC alternate SSC (Space Surveillance Center)...at NAVSPASUR, Dahlgren VA

AST above-ground storage tank {ECAMP}Þ airborne sensor testbed

ASTAC aerospace technology applications {AFSPC/DOX}

ASTEX automated storage expert...IBM-proprietary MCC DASD software being incorporated in ECP 5126

ASTM American Society for Testing and Material

ASTP advanced satellite technology program {NAVSPACECOM}Þ Apollo/Soyuz Test Project

ASTRA-1 Mass-spectrometer instrument on Salyut-7.

ASTRO (U.S.) Army space technology research office {ARSPACE}Þ astronomy...program to obtain ultraviolet data on astronomical objects using an ultraviolet telescope. ASTRO 1 was launched Nov 89 on Shuttle. ASTRO 2 (ASTRO SPAS) was a free-flyer launched and retrieved by Shuttle.Þ automatic scheduling tools for range operations...Paramax scheduling software replacing BASCH

ASTRON CIS flying observatory.

Astros advanced star/target reference optical sensor

Astrotech Astrotech Space Operations Co...first U.S. commercial satellite processing facility, opened Apr 84

ASTS advanced surveillance and tracking system {NAVSPACECOM}

ASTT airborne surveillance and tracking technology {NAVSPACECOM}

ASUW antisurface warfare

ASWOC antisubmarine warfare operations center {C4SMP}

ASYS annunciator subsystem {CSOC SCS}

AT Appalachian Trail {BOSS}

ATB air target board {C4SMP}

ATCALS advanced traffic control and landing systems

ATDL advanced tactical data link {C4SMP}Þ autotune decision level {GPS}

ATDS airborne tactical data system {C4SMP}

ATG aerospace test group, e.g., 6595 ATG

ATH above the horizon {TW/AA}Þ autonomous terminal homing

Athos French experimental comsat to test 30/20 GHz comm payloads for future spacecraft, and to study EHF propagation effects. Derivative of Eurostar broadcast spacecraft.

Atlas General Dynamics-Convair launch vehicle. Launches DMSP and COMSATs. Atlas-E is a refurbished Atlas ICBM with radio guidance and liquid rocket engines. Atlas-G/Centaur can put 5200 lb into GTO. Atlas II (for DSCS) is a growth version of Atlas Centaur, capable of 5900 lbs to GTO.

ATLAS atmospheric laboratory for applications and science...measures long-term variability in the total energy radiated by the sun and determines the variability in the solar spectrum. ATLAS-1 through ATLAS-5 launched 1989-1992 on Shuttle.

ATM antitactical missileÞ Apollo telescope mountÞ architecture trade modelÞ asynchronous transfer modeÞ automated teller machine

ATMOS atmospheric trace molecules spectroscopy...JPL-sponsored STS-51B instrument that recorded atmospheric constituents in great detail by observing the atmosphere through about 250,000 spectral lines

atmospheric drag - A satellite below 600 NM experiences atmospheric drag that causes the orbit to decay.

ATN advanced Tiros-N...new instruments include a solar backscatter UV radiometerÞ astro-geophysical teletype network

ATO abort-to-orbit...preplanned Shuttle abort mode used when a single engine shutdown occurs at a point where the vehicle has attained sufficient altitude and velocity to allow the remaining two engines to propel the Shuttle into an orbit from which the flight can continueÞ air tasking order

ATOMS administrative telephone operations and maintenance...Falcon AFB telephone contract

ATP acceptance test procedure {NASA}Þ acceptance test programÞ acquisition, tracking and pointingÞ advanced technology panel {NAVSPACECOM}Þ advanced tracking prototype {AFSPC/DOX}Þ authority to proceed

ATS acquisition track sensorÞ advanced technology satellite {NASA}Þ advanced telemetry system {CSOC}Þ advanced tracking system {C4SMP}Þ applications technology satellite...R&D geostationary weather satellite and communications test bed; evolved to GOESÞ axial thrust system

ATSDR Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry {Public Health Service}

ATTU Atlantic-to-the-Urals (region)

AU Air University, Maxwell AFB AL 36112-5000Þ assessable unit {AFR 15-1}Þ astronomical unit...a measure of distance (1 AU = 92,790 miles)

AUI attachment unit interface {AFSC2S}

AUM AA (attack assessment) update module

Aurora RCA comsat launched 27 Oct 82. SATCOM V sold to ALASCOM and renamed AURORA I.

aurora borealis - A luminous phenomenon that occurs in the northern hemisphere and consists of streamers or arches of light. Caused by emission of light from atoms excited by electrons accelerated along the earth's magnetic field lines. Similar phenomenon in the southern hemisphere is called aurora australis.

AUSSAT Australian Satellite Company...comsat using an HS-376 bus, provides 15 14/12 MHz channels to service continental Australia and off-shore territories

AUTONAV autonomous navigation

A/V audio and video {C4SMP}

AVE aerospace vehicle equipment {20 AF}

AVHF adaptive VHF (very high frequency)

AVHRR advanced very high resolution radiometer...DMSP and Tiros-N sensor

AvSat aviation satellite (system)

AVSM audio/video switch matrix {C4SMP}

AW air warfare {C4SMP}

AWA awaiting analysis

AW/AA attack warning/attack assessment {TW/AA}

AWDS advanced weather distribution system {DMSP}Þ automated weather distribution system {C4SMP}

AWN automated weather network {AFSPC/DOG}

AWO attack warning officer

AWS advanced warning systemÞ Air Weather ServiceÞ alternative work schedule

AXAF advanced X-ray astrophysics facility...space-based telescope that will make high-resolution images of X-ray sources in deep space; Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) replacement for high energy astronomy observatory (HEAO)

BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB

B billion(s)_ International space object designator normally assigned as suffix for "rocket body." Multiple payloads are catalogued before rocket body, platform and debris._ BRAVO {military phonetics alphabet}

BA British Aerospace Corp...see "BADG"_ budget authority...obligation of funds for immediate and future disbursement, associated with the year the authority takes effect

BAe British Aerospace {NATO IVB}

Baker-Nunn - Deep-space optical tracking system developed in the late 1950s by Dr. Howard Baker and Mr. Joseph Nunn. Three-ton camera's optical sensor can photograph a star 200 times fainter than is visible to the naked eye. Ten sites originally, none operational today.

BAQ basic allowance for quarters

BAS basic allowance for subsistence

baud (rate) Transmission rate of a communications channel or device, usually bits per second. {Computer Glossary, 1983}

BBC British Broadcasting Corporation {ASCN}

BBS battery backup system {CSOC SCS}

BBXT broad band X-ray telescope...a Shuttle pallet telescope that uses a two-axis pointing system

BCAS base contracting automated system {AFSPC/PK}

BCC base communications center_ block check character_ boost converter current {GPS}

Bcf billion cubic feet {EIS}

BCF backup communications facility...Dahlgren VA

BCM baseline correlation matrix {CSOC}

BCO base communications officer {50 MS}_ base contracting officer_ broad concept of operations

BCSi Computer simulation company spun off from Logicon in 1993. The name is from a frequency histogram of the initials of the founders. 102 S Tejon #400, Colorado Springs CO 80903.

BDA Bermuda_ battle damage assessment_ bomb damage assessment

BDD burst detector dosimeter {NDS}

BDM bomber defense missile_ Braddock, Dunn and McDonald International, Inc., 3005 Center Green Drive, Boulder CO 80301

BDP burst detection processor {NDS}

BDX burst detector X-ray {NDS}

BDY burst detector optical {NDS}

BE basic encyclopedia (targets)_ brilliant eyes...BMDO space-based post-boost vehicle and midcourse surveillance, tracking, and discrimination element

BEAR beam experiment aboard rocket {NAVSPACECOM}

BEC bulk encrypted communications

BEE bioenvironmental engineering

BEP bit error probability_ break-even point

BES bioenvironmental engineering services_ boost engine start_ budget estimate submission...Service input to OSD revising the Service's Program Objectives Memorandum (POM) per Program Decision Memorandum (PDM) decisions

BET best estimate of trajectory {NASA}

beta (ß) ballistic coefficient...a parameter that describes the behavior of a body reentering the atmosphere from space. The ratio of vehicle weight (W) to a factor describing the degree of streamlining (CD, the coefficient of drag) and the effective frontal area (A) of the vehicle, i.e., ß = W/(CD/A).

BFEC Bendix Field Engineering Corp...AFSCN depot support contractor

BFO backhaul follow-on_ blinding flash of the obvious {ACC QAF}

BFS backup flight system {Shuttle}

Bhaskara Indian remote sensing satellite

BIDDS base integrated digital distribution system...50 SW telephone switch contract with NTI

Big Communicator - Family of comsats designed to operate in clusters to provide more adequate coverage over continental areas.

BIND Berkeley internet name domain {AFSC2S}

biochip Microminiaturized electronic circuitry using biological phenomena to condense electronics up to three orders of magnitude beyond what is predicted for VHSIC technology. The objective is to apply the circuitry densities and 3-dimensional logic function inherent in living organisms.

Biogravistat - Equipment used on Salyut-7 to grow plants under conditions of simulated gravity.

biotech biotechnology...the integration of biology in technical and engineering applications

bipolar A type of (epitaxial) semiconductor device architecture.

BIR ballistic inflight reliability {20 AF}

bit binary digit...one of the two numbers (0 and 1) used to store computer data {Sandia}

BIT built-in test

BITE built-in test equipment

B/L baseline

Black Sea 85 - Intercosmos-sponsored experiment jointly conducted on Salyut-7, ships, and aircraft to determine the size of the mineral and biological resources of the Black Sea area. Scientists from the CIS, Bulgaria, Poland and the German Democratic Republic (GDR) participated.

blackout A severe absorption of RF signals near a nuclear fireball.

BLOS beyond line of sight {TW/AA}

BLSS base level self-sufficiency spares

BMAR backlog of Air Force maintenance and repair {AFSPC/CE}

BM/C3 battle management and command, control and communications...SDI architecture component

BMDE ballistic missile defense enhancement

BMDO ballistic missile defense organization...formerly SDIO

BMDSCOM - U.S. Army Ballistic Missile Defense Systems Command...now U.S. Army Strategic Defense Command

BMEWS ballistic missile early warning system...provides tactical warning of ballistic missile attacks; also part of the SPACETRACK system (see "SSN"). Three components:

- A two-faced phased array radar at Thule AB, Greenland

- Three detection radars and one tracking radar at Clear AFS AK

- A three-faced phased array radar at RAF Fylingdales, UK

BMI bismaleimide...a heat-resistant composite material showing greater strength at temperatures between 259_F and 450_F than titanium or carbon-epoxy composite materials

BMS balanced magnetic switch {CSOC SCS}

BMT ballistic missile technology {Phillips Lab}_ ballistic missile threat_ beam management terminal {Milstar}

BO burnout

BOD beginning of orbit determination_ beneficial occupancy date_ biochemical oxygen demand {ECAMP}

BOM backup operations manual {50 OPG}_ bill of materials

BOS base operating support

BOSS AFSCN call sign for New Hampshire Tracking Station (NHS). The largest of nine RTSs in the AFSCN, BOSS (2826 acres, 43_N latitude, 72_W longitude) is at New Boston Air Station, 54 miles north of Boston, near Manchester NH. BOSS's 60' high-power uplink antenna ("NHS-A"), installed in 1961, is the oldest antenna in the network and uses a converted hydraulic drive system. NHS-A height (at zenith) is 81 feet, antenna pedestal height 49 feet, antenna weight approximately 110 tons on the azimuth bearing, slew rate 8_/sec minimum, acceleration 2_/sec2; ARTS II turnover Feb 93. The radome on BOSS's 46' antenna ("NHS-B") was installed in 1970; ARTS II turnover with DMSPE ("Site 56" SCU and communications hardware provide interconnectivity between DMSPE and the DMSP network) May 91. BOSS's 10m DLT antenna ("NHS-C") is used for M2P1 communications. The DLT radome, operational in 1988, has a 53-ft diameter and is designed to withstand 134 mph winds. BOSS's SATCOM AN/FSC-78 heavy terminal has been operational since Sep 77 (the Defense Communications Subsystem (DCSS) was installed Sep 80). The SATCOM radome (93-ft diameter) can withstand 150-mph winds. On-site DSCS antenna maintenance conducted by 23 SOPS. Local standard time is Z-5 hours.

BOT beginning of tape {AFSCN}

BOTACHA bombs on target and come home alive {USCINCSPACE}

BP bandpass_ brilliant pebbles...a distributed, highly autonomous, space-based interceptor and sensor system {BMDO}

BPIE base procured investment equipment {AFSPC/LG}

BPL boost-phase leakage {BMDO}

BR boost reliability {20 AF}_ bridgewire resistance

BRAC base realignment and closure

Brazilsat Brazilian comsat, also called SBTS (Sistema Brasileiro de Telecommunicacoes por Satelite). 24-channel modified C-band spacecraft using an HS-376 bus. Weighs 670 kg. TT&C station in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

- Brazilsat-1 launched 8 Feb 85 on Ariane 3

- Brazilsat-2 launched 28 Mar 86 on Ariane 3

BRE blood rheology experiment...Shuttle technology demonstration of aggregation of red cells (ARC) apparatus

BRG budget review group {SAF/FM}

BS battle staff...oxymoron_ battle station_ Japanese direct TV broadcast satellite (also called "Yuri," which means "lily"). Launched from Tanegashima by NASDA.

- BS-E launched 7 Apr 78 on Delta 2914; experimental, failed in 27 months

- BS-2A launched 23 Jan 84 on N-2; transmission ceased 1 Aug 85 apparently due to a telemetry command system failure

- BS-2B launched 12 Feb 86 on N-2; backup

- BS-3A launched 1990 on H-1A

- BS-3B launched 1990 on H-1A

BSD Berkeley software distribution {AFSC2S}

BSL basic system list {AFSCN}

BS/L bulk storage/loader {AFSPC/DOM}

BSPP backup support pass plan {50 OPG}

BSS briefing support system {AFSC2S}

BSSC battle staff support center {AFI10-1208}

BSTS boost surveillance and tracking system...a system to detect missiles during their boost phase

BSVS backup secure voice system {AFSCN}

BT British Telecom {BMEWS Site III}

BTC black tech control {NORAD}_ block transfer controller

BTDC before top dead center

B-term Part of a NORAD element set used to compute satellite drag. {SPACETRACK Rpt #3, Dec 80}

BTH below the horizon {C4SMP}_ beyond the horizon {TW/AA}

BTI British Telecom International...UK agency providing terrestrial circuits from the Intelsat gateway earth stations to Federal Express courier affiliates...see "FedNet"

BTR booth through-put rate {CSOC SCS}

BUF backup facility

BUMCS backup master control station...Gaithersburg MD emergency GPS backup mission support facility

bus A satellite's "bus" usually includes everything on the satellite except the mission payload itself. The bus normally includes the structural frame as well as the subsystems responsible for housekeeping functions such as TT&C, communications, system status monitoring, position keeping, attitude control, thermal control and electric power.

BVF buffer number {20 AF}

BVR beyond visual range {TAB93-1}

BWS base weather station {AFSPC/DOG}

byte A group of bits (usually eight) used to encode a single letter, number or symbol. {Sandia}

BZ BRAVO ZULU...Navy term for "good job"

c circa...Latin, "about"_ the speed of light...3x108 m/sec_ linear eccentricity...the distance between the two foci of the elliptical path traced by a satellite in orbit about earth is 2c; see "e"

C Celsius...C = (5/9)(F-32); see "K"_ CHARLIE {military phonetics alphabet}_ cold_ confidential_ contract, e.g., 704701-91-C-0108_ Normal international space object designator suffix for "platform."

C4I command, control, communications, computers and intelligence

CAAS contracted advisor and assistance services...those services acquired by the Department of Defense from nongovernmental sources to support or improve agency/policy development on decision making, or to support or improve the management of organizations on the operation of weapon system, equipment, and components

CAATS Canadian automated air traffic system {C4SMP}

CA/CRL custodian authorization/custody receipt listing {BMEWS Site III}

CACS command and control squadron, e.g., 1 CACS

CADRE Center for Aerospace Doctrine, Research and Education, Maxwell AFB AL

CAI computer-aided instruction {50 CTS}

CAL calibration

CALS computer-aided acquisition and logistics system_ continuous acquisition and life-cycle support {USSPACECOM/J6N}

CANR Canadian NORAD region {TW/AA}

CANUS Canada-United States

CAP civil air patrol_ combat air patrol_ contractor-acquired property {50 CTS}_ crew activity plan...schedule of Shuttle crew activities

CAPCOM capsule communicator {NASA}

CAPEG Cape Canaveral ground antenna {GPS}

CAPEM Cape Canaveral monitor station...proposed GPS monitor station

CAPOE civilian aerial port of entry {BMEWS Site III}

CAPT captain

CAR command assessment review_ contract action request {NSP contract}_ correct acceptance rate {CSOC SCS}_ customer account representative {AFSCN}

CARD cost analysis and requirements document {USSPACECOM/J6N}

CARDA continental United States airborne reconnaissance for damage assessment {NORAD}

CARS contractors automatic resupply system {BMEWS Site III}

CART control and alert reporting terminal {NAVSPACECOM}

CAS close air support_ collision avoidance system_ contract administration services_ cost accounting standard_ crisis action system_ critical actions system {AFSCN}

CASE common automated system execution_ computer-aided software engineering_ computer-aided system engineering

Cassini Proposed NASA mission to land a probe on Titan, one of Saturn's moons...slated for 15 Mar 95 out of Eastern Range on Titan IV/Centaur for a Jan 2002 landing

Castor-4 Thiokol-developed solid rocket motor used on Delta.

CAT Capsule Ariane Technologies...data capsule used as payload in Ariane test flights_ category_ cluster assignment threshold_ computer adaptive testing_ computerized axial tomography, e.g., CAT scan_ crisis action team

CATC computer assist to tech control {AFSC2S}

CATCODE category code {CFA}

CATEX categorical exclusion {ECAMP}

CBC combined BMEWS conference

CBN correlated bivariate normal {20 AF}

CBRN Caribbean Basin radar network {TW/AA}

CBT combat_ computer-based training {50 CTS}_ CSP (communications support processor) backside terminal

CBWG combined BMEWS working group

CC cause category {AFSCN}_ command and control_ command center {C4SMP}_ commander_ computer controller {AFSCN}_ cost center...budget term

CCA circuit card assembly {COBRADANE}_ combat capability assessment {20 AF}

CCAF Community College of the Air Force

CCAS Cape Canaveral Air Station, Florida...formerly CCAFS

CCC central computer complex_ communications control complex {AFSCN}_ (USSPACECOM/NORAD) consolidated command center {AFI10-1208}_ contract category code

CCC-F communications control complex-Falcon (AFB)

CCF first sergeant

CCFF Cape Canaveral forecast facility

CCH crew chief {50 SW}

CCIRC CONUS (continental U.S.) cable installation and removal contract...Griffiss AFB telephone cable contract

CCITT consultative committee International Telegraph and Telephone {AFSC2S}

CCMF consolidated collection management facility {C4SMP}

CCO circuit control office {AFSCN}

CCOMS correlation center output message set {C4SMP}

CCP command center processor {C4SMP}_ configuration control panel {AFSPC/DOT}_ protocol

CCPDS command center processing and display system {TW/AA}

CCPDS-R command center processing and display system replacement {TW/AA}

CCPO central civilian personnel office {AFSPC/DP}

CCR command communications reliability {20 AF}_ command control receiver_ commander's conference room (room 304, building 500, Falcon AFB)_ contract change request

CCRB communications-computer requirements board {AFSCN}_ configuration control review board {ITW/AA}

CCRS Canada Center for Remote Sensing...ground station at Prince Albert, Saskatchewan; proposed station near Ottawa, Ontario_ Canadian coastal radar system {TW/AA}

CCS command and control segment...this segment of DSM includes all functions that control data during satellite supports: the MCCs (mission control complexes), the DDE (data distribution equipment), the RCS (resource control system), the OSMC, the SDTL, and the RCSE at the RTSs (remote tracking stations)_ configuration control system_ constellation control station {Milstar}

C-CS communications-computer system {50 LG}

CCSB configuration control screening board {GPS}_ configuration control sub-board {ITW/AA}

CCSD configuration control system directive

CCSE command and control sustaining engineering...SMC Det 5 contract with IBM_ command and control system element {AFSCN}

CCSEG command contact support equipment group {Milstar}

CCV code change verifier {20 AF}

CCW command and control warfare...formerly C3CM, the integration of OPSEC, military deception, PSYOPS, EW and physical destruction (mutually supported by intelligence) to deny information from an adversary, and to influence, degrade or destroy adversary C2 capabilities while protecting friendly C2 capabilities {AFSPC/XPXS}

CDA central distribution amplifier {AFSCN}_ central dynamic amplifier {BFEC}_ central software design authority {50 SSYS}_ Coeur d'Alene (Idaho) {FAIR}_ command and data acquisition {DMSP}_ compound document architecture {AFSC2S}

CDB command data buffer {20 AF}

CDC child development center {50 SW}_ command destruct control_ confined detonating cord_ Control Data Corporation

CDIS Canadian Defence Intelligence Staff

CDM central display modification {DMSP}

C&DP command and data processing...SMC $617K contract with IBM and Paramax (formerly Unisys)_ control and display panel {AFSCN}

CD-ROM compact disk, read-only memory

CDRS container design retrieval system {CSOC}

CDS Canadian Defence Staff_ Chief of the Defence Staff_ control description sheet_ current data system...CCS predecessor

CDSM COBRA DANE system modernization {ESC}

CDT Central Daylight Time_ cutdown test {AFSCN}

C2E command and control element {GPALS}

CEAP change evaluation and approval process {50 SSYS}

CECORS civil engineering contract operations reporting system {50 CES}

CEF candidate environmental findings {ECAMP}

CEMA Council for Mutual Economic Assistance

CEMIRT civil engineering maintenance, inspection and repair team {AFSCN}

CENTAG Central Army Group

Centaur General Dynamics-Convair liquid hydrogen/liquid oxygen upper stage...Centaur D-1A is used with Atlas boosters, Centaur-G with Titan IV can put 10,000 lbs into GTO

CENTCOM Central Command

CEOS Committee on Earth Observation Satellites...one of two groups formed to increase sharing of satellite data and to promote the use of earth observation satellites (the other is IPOMS)

CEP circular error probable

CEPT Conference European des Administrations des Postes et des Telecommunications...membership consists of 26 European post and telecommunications authorities

CEQ council on environmental quality {EPA}

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act

CERES center for research support {BMDO}_ correlation, environment, requirements evaluation

CFA commanders' facility assessment {HQ USAF/CE}_ crossed field amplifier

CFC chlorofluorocarbons {ECAMP}_ combined federal campaign

CFD computational fluid dynamics {NAVSPACECOM}

CFDP control files data base {DMSP}

CFE contractor-furnished equipment_ Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (agreement)

CFES continuous flow electrophoresis system...Shuttle experiment to demonstrate the technology of pharmaceutical processing in space

CFEN contractor-furnished equipment notice {COBRADANE}

CFEP communications front-end processor {DMSP}

CFFG Canadian Forces fighter group

CFM computer facility manager {50 SWR 56-1}_ cubic feet per minute

CFMF cryogenic fluid management facility...reusable research facility to establish a technology base for zero-gravity cryogenic fluid management systems

CFS Canadian Forces Station_ cesium frequency standard {GPS}

CFT cockpit familiarization trainer {TAB93-1}

CFWC Canadian Federal Warning Centre, Carp, Ontario {NORAD}

CG center of gravity_ command guide_ commanding general_ communications group

CGDOR current grade date of rank {AFMPC}

CGF Central Group of Forces {CIS}

CGIS Comsat General Integrated Systems...comsat computer-aided design subsidiary

CGN guided-missile cruiser, nuclear-powered {USN}

CGOC company grade officers council

CGWIC China Great Wall Industry Corporation...division of Ministry of Astronautics

CHAMPUS civilian health and medical program of the uniformed services

Chase coronal helium abundance spacelab experiment...Spacelab-2 solar experiment, proposed for Sunlab, sponsored by Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and University College

Chemsat Proposed small, Getaway Special-deployable satellites containing gas-release canisters...resulting gas clouds would be used as targets for BMD laser tests; see "Multiprobe" and "GAS"

cherry picker A work station mounted on a manipulator arm or crane to position crew members at a work area...cherry pickers may be closed (for a shirt-sleeve environment) or open.

Chibis Pneumatic vacuum suits carried on CIS space stations...used to simulate terrestrial gravitation prior to reentry.

chip A small piece of silicon that is a complete semiconductor device or integrated circuit. {Sandia}

CHRMS civilian human resource management system

CI configuration inspection {NASA}_ configuration item {CSOC}_ counterintelligence

C2I command, control and intelligence {CSOC}

C4I command, control, communications, computers and intelligence {SR 27-2}

CIAET combined initial and annual ethics training {OGE}

CIASC CSOC integration and activation support contract...50 LG $1.5M contract (#F04701-C-92-0036) awarded to Loral May 92, displacing 10-yr incumbent TRW

CIC (NORAD/USSPACECOM) combined intelligence center_ commander's information center (room 302, bldg 300, Falcon AFB)_ configuration and interface controller_ crew instructor course {50 CTS}

CID charge-injection device_ comprehensive interior design {AFSPC/CE}

C3IE command, control, communications and intelligence, east {C4SMP}

CIF crew information file {50 SW}

C4IFTW command, control, communications, computers and intelligence for the warrior {C4SMP}

CIL critical items list {NASA}

CIM corporate information management {ASD/C3I}

CINCPAC Commander-in-Chief, Pacific Command

CINF community imagery needs forecast {DIA}

CIO central imagery office

CIP capital investment plan {AFSPC/DOG}_ component improvement program_ critical intelligence parameter

CIS Commonwealth of Independent States...formerly USSR. The Ministry of Defense coordinates the military's role in space programs, cosmonaut training, and spacecraft recovery. The Strategic Rocket Forces control launches and provide TT&C._ communications and information systems {ACDS, MOD}

CIS ASAT An SL-11 booster used to launch co-orbital antisatellite interceptors. The nuclear-armed GALOSH interceptor deployed around Moscow has an inherent ASAT capability against satellites in low earth orbit. A directed energy weapon ASAT capability is suspected for sites at Sary Shagan and Dushanbe space tracking facility.

CISC CSOC integration support contract(or)...SMC $10.3M contract with TRW

CISCO consolidated intelligence support to combat operations

CISF centralilzed integrated support facility...Det 25 software facility at Peterson AFB

- Plesetsk...PK, or Northern Cosmodrome

- Tyuratam...TT, or Baikonur Cosmodrome

CISS Centaur integrated support structure...cradle and support system for Centaur upper stage and payload

CIV code inserter verifier {AFSPC/DOM}

CIW combined intelligence watch {C4SMP}

C3IW command, control, communications and intelligence, west {C4SMP}

CIWC combined intelligence watch commander {USSPACECOM}

CJTF commander, joint task force {NAVSPACECOM}

CKT circuit {50 SPCS}

CLE command and launch equipment {20AF}

CLEO contingency launch and early orbit {operations plan 3410}

CLIP cancel launch in progress {20 AF}

Clouds Shuttle structures photography experiments to observe cloud formation, dissipation and opaqueness.

CLPSB CINC logistics procurement support board {NAVSPACECOM}

CLS contractor logistics support {CSOC}_ cooperative launch switches {AFSPC/DOM}

CLSA combined logistics support agreement {BMEWS Site III}

CLT/RTL Compagnie Luxembourgeois de Telediffusion/Radio-Tele Luxembourg...Luxembourg's television organization; one of many sponsors of TDF-1

Cluster Proposed European Space Agency (ESA) Shuttle-launched satellite that will make interactive measurements on how energy is transferred across magnetospheric boundaries.

CLWG combined logistics working group {BMEWS Site III}

CM centimeter(s)_ change management {USSPACECOM/J6N}_ configuration management {DODD 5010.19, AFR 14-1, AFR65- 3}_ configuration manager_ corrective maintenance {BMEWS Site III}_ countermeasure

C&M control and monitor {CSOC}

CMAFB Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Base...obsolete, now CMAS

CMAH CINC mobile alternate headquarters {Milstar}

CMAS Cheyenne Mountain Air Station...formerly CMAFB (CMAFS before that, and CMC or NCMC before that), refers to the base and all its tenant activities

CMB CAAS (contract advisory and assistance services) management board_ configuration management board {BMEWS Site III}

CMCP combined management control plan {BMEWS Site III}

CMDP communications management development plan {Milstar}

CMDPE command processing and evaluation {CPCI 204}

CMDR commander

CMG control moment gyro...a gyroscope, usually much larger than a gyro sensor, mounted on a single or double gimbal and used to generate control torques. The torques are generated by commanding gimbal angle rates that result in inertial motion of the CMG spinning wheel and accompanying gyroscopic reaction torques on the vehicle structure. {AIAA, 12 Jun 84}

CMI California Microwave, Inc._ computer-managed instruction {50 CTS}

CMIS Cheyenne Mountain interface subsystem {C4SMP}

CMOP Chairman (JCS) memorandum of policy

CMOS complementary metal-oxide semicondutor...MOS technology used in very low power applications, popular in space and military systems {Sandia}

C2MOS closed complementary metal-oxide semiconductor

CMOSG Cheyenne Mountain operations staff group {N/U/S HOI 55-1}

CMP common multipurpose processor_ configuration management plan {AFR 65-3}_ counter-military potential

CMPG command message processing group {20 AF}

CMRL command and measurement requirements list {GPS}

CMRS calibration measurement requirements summary {CSOC}

CMS chief master sergeant_ Colorado monitor station {GPS}_ common MCG&I (mapping, charting, geopositioning and imagery) system {AFSC2S}_ cost management system {AFSCN}_ current message set {C4SMP}

CMSC control monitor station controller {AFSCN}

CMSG Cheyenne Mountain Support Group...obsolete, now 721 SGP

CMSGT chief master sergeant

CMTS CMC (Cheyenne Mountain Complex) training system {AFSPC/DO}

CMU Cheyenne Mountain upgrade {AFSPC/SC}

CN communications network {CSOC}_ counter-narcotics {C4SMP}

CNAAS counter-narcotics air analysis system {C4SMP}

CNC computerized numerical control

CNES Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales...French national space agency, lead technical agency for Ariane

CNET Centre National d'Etudes des Telecommunications...French telecommunications agency

CNIE Commission Nacional de Investigaciones Espaciales...manager of Argentina's space research program

CNMI Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands {73 SGP}

CNN Cable News Network

CNRADL Canadian RADIL (ROCC/AWACS digital information link) {TW/AA}

CNRI Corporation for National Research Initiatives, Reston VA

CO carbon monoxide {EPA}_ central office {AFSCN}_ change order_ Colorado_ commanding officer_ contracting office(r)

COBE cosmic background explorer...Shuttle experiment to study the diffuse radiation of the universe

COCOM combatant command_ Coordinating Committee for Multilateral Export Controls...informal committee in Paris that supervises Western alliance exports

COD cash on delivery_ cooperative opportunities document {AFSPC/XP}_ correction of deficiencies {TW/AA}

COE (U.S. Army) Corps of Engineers

CoFR certification of flight readiness {NASA}

COI critical operational issue {CSOC SCS}

COL colonel

COLA collision avoidance {NASA}_ cost-of-living allowance

COLD-SAT Cryogenic infrared radiance instrument for Shuttle...zero-gravity cryogenic fluids transfer experiment

Columbus Free-flying version of European Spacelab, offered as the European contribution to the U.S. space station.

COM chief of maintenance_ combined USAF/RAF operations manual {BMEWS Site III}_ computer-output microfilm

COMACC Commander, Air Combat Command

COMBO computation of miss between orbits...NORAD computer program for collision avoidance calculations

COMET Collecte en Orbite de Matiere Extra Terrestie...French cometary dust collector_ commercial experiment transporter...three NASA-sponsored launches in 1992, 1994 and 1995.

COMPASS complementary active sensor system {NAVSPACECOM}

Comstar Commercial domestic telephone comsat...uses an Atlas-Centaur booster; control center in Washington DC, TT&C stations in Southbury CT and Santa Paula CA.

- D2 launched 22 Jul 76

- D4 launched 21 Feb 81

Conestoga Space Services, Inc. solid propellant booster...successful suborbital test flight Sep 82

CONR CONUS (continental United States) NORAD (North American Aerospace Defence) Command region {C4SMP}

contrail condensation trail

COOK AFSCN call sign for Vandenberg Tracking Station (VTS)...one of nine RTSs in the common user AFSCN, COOK (35_N latitude, 121_W longitude) also provides two-sided support for 30th Space Wing launches and is the alternate 750 SGP command post. COOK's 60' high-power uplink antenna ("VTS-A") was installed in 1967; ARTS II turnover May 92. COOK's 46' antenna ("VTS-B") was installed in 1973; ARTS II turnover Jul 91. COOK's 10m DLT (receive only) antenna ("VTS-C") was installed in 1981 for M2P1 communications; TT&C upgrade IOC Apr 93. Local standard time is Z-8 hours.

Copernicus German communications relay satellite...see "DFS Kopernikus"

COPES CCS (command and control segment) operating procedures, engineering and simulations {50 CTS}

COPS commodity-oriented procurement system {DLA}

COR consolidated operations room {Lights Out}

CORESAT constitution/reconstitution satellite {NAVSPACECOM}

Coronet Luxembourg's proposed 16-channel TV broadcast satellite.

COS certificate of service {NSP}_ chief of support_ Colorado Springs (Colorado)_ combat operations staff

COSEPUP Committee on Science, Engineering and Public Policy...a joint committee of the National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, and Institute of Medicine

Cosmos CIS satellite series_ European aerospace manufacturers' consortium

COSPAR United Nations Committee on Space Research...originally chartered SPADATS to assign satellite international designators and keep the satellite catalogue for the UN

COSPAS Cosmicheskaya Sistyema Poiska Avariynych Sudov...CIS portion of COSPAS-SARSAT search and rescue program; see "SARSAT-COSPAS"

COSSCASP Consortium of Small Satellite Constructors and Service Providers

COT changeover time {Milstar}

COTR contracting officer's technical representative

CP command post_ communications processor {C4SMP}_ conduit penetration_ control processor {Milstar}

CPC ceramic printed circuit {20AF}_ computer program component {Milstar}

CPCI (C&DP contract) computer program configuration item {SMC Det 5}

201 ops planning 235 DSM simulation

203 TLMPE 350 basic scheduling

204 CMDPE M01 FLTSATCOM

205 MCCMG M03 DSCS

209 common services M05 command maneuver program

230 mission orbit planning DB data base

CPCSB computer program configuration sub-board {SR 27-2}

CPE collocated program element...CSOC CPEs include GPS MCS, mission ops center, DSCS comm terminals, CTS, SEFC, and NTF_ computer performance evaluation {50 SSYS}

CPER contract performance evaluation report {NSP}

CPG control processor group {Milstar}

CPIC computer program integration contract...SMC Det 5 $2.7M CCS contract with Paramax (formerly Unisys)

CPLE capillary pump loop explorer...Shuttle experiment to determine zero-gravity performance of a capillary pump loop heat acquisition system; see "CAPL"

CPMR Cape Parry Missile Range, Canada...70.1_N latitude, 124.4_W longitude_ CSOC program management review

CPO chief petty officer {US Navy}_ civilian personnel office

CPS characters per second_ competitive prototyping strategy {AFSPC/XP}_ core processing system {C4SMP}

CPSMR contractor's progress, status and management report {50 CTS}

CPT captain {U.S. Army}

CPT&E computer program(mer) testing and evaluation {50 SSYS}

CPTF Camp Parks Test Facility...see "CPCA"

CPX command post exercise

CR carriage return_ change request_ change requirement {NASA}_ clarification request_ continuing resolution_ coupling reduction...SGEMP hardening technique that reduces the injection current in a cable, reduces the