MENTOR, sometimes called Advanced Orion by observers, is reportedly a code-name for a class of United States reconnaissance satellites that collect signals intelligence (SIGINT)from space. Operated by the National Reconnaissance Office and developed with input from the Central Intelligence Agency, three were launched from Cape Canaveral on Titan IV and Titan IVB rockets between 1995 and 2003. These satellites collect radio emissions (SIGINT) from geostationary orbits and act as replacements for the older constellation of Magnum/Orion satellites. Observers estimate the satellites weigh close to 5200 kg and have very large (estimated 100m diameter)^[1] radio reflecting dishes. The mission and capabilities of these satellites are highly classified. Earlier satellites with similar missions, the Rhyolite/Aquacade series, were built by TRW; it is not known who made the Mentors. ^[2]

Launches

• "Advanced Orion 1" 14 May 1995 (USA-110) 1995-022A
• "Advanced Orion 2" 9 May 1998 (USA-139) 1998-029A
• "Advanced Orion 3" 9 Sep 2003 (USA-171) 2003-041A

References

1. ^ Spy satellites of the NSA (fr)
2. ^ Jonathan's space report No. 369 (1998-08-22)

External links

• Advanced Orion at Encyclopedia Astronautica

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