An Atlas V rocket lifts off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 11:12 a.m. on 15 June 2007 carrying two spy satellites for the National Reconnaissance Office. The Air Force revealed after the launch that the Atlas-Centaur upper stage suffered “....a technical anomaly which resulted in minor performance degradation." The end result being the satellites were left in orbits lower than intended. Further reports stated the satellites might be able to use their on-board rockets to raise themselves to the proper orbit which would significantly shorten their operational life as they use up precious fuel. | |
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