1st Space Operations Squadron

1st Space Operations Squadron
1 SOPS emblem
Active1961–1976; 1987–present
Country United States
Branch United States Space Force
RoleOn-orbit Command and Control
Part ofSpace Delta 9
Garrison/HQSchriever Space Force Base, Colorado, U.S.
Motto(s)
  • Always in Control (1993-present)
  • Latin: Primarii Aetheris Defensores (1962-1976), lit.'Space Defenders of the First Rank'
DecorationsAir Force Outstanding Unit Award[1]
Commanders
CommanderLt Col Galen Thorp

The 1st Space Operations Squadron (1 SOPS) is a United States Space Force unit responsible for space-based space domain awareness. Located at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, the squadron operates the Space Based Space Surveillance system, the Advanced Technology Risk Reduction system, the Operationally Responsive Space-5 satellite, and the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program.[2]

It was first activated in 1961 as the 1st Aerospace Surveillance and Control Squadron as the SPACETRACK component of NORAD's Space Detection and Tracking System. It was the operational version of Project Space Track. It continued this mission as the 1st Aerospace Control Squadron until inactivation in 1976. It depends on Space Delta 9 when this unit is created on 24 July 2020.

  1. ^ Robertson, Patsy (6 September 2012). "1 Space Operations Squadron (AFSPC)". Air Force Historical Research Agency. Retrieved 19 May 2017.Public Domain This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
  2. ^ "Schriever AFB Library Fact Sheets: 1st Space Operations Squadron". 50th Space Wing Public Affairs. 16 April 2015. Archived from the original on 3 March 2016. Retrieved 19 May 2017.