The 5th Space Operations Squadron is a component of Space Delta 9, headquartered at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington D.C.
Mission
Operate reusable, unmanned space test platforms to demonstrate technologies for the U.S. Space Force.
Vision
Conduct premier operations and experimentation of advanced space technologies to enhance DoD objectives.
History
5th SOPS, in partnership with the Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office, operate the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV), which is an experimental test program to demonstrate technologies for a reliable, reusable, unmanned space test platform for the U.S. Space Force. The primary objectives of the X-37B are twofold: the development of reusable spacecraft technologies for America's future in space, and operating, experiments which can be returned to, and examined, on Earth. 5th SOPS was previously designated as the Delta 9, Detachment 1, and 3d Space Experimentation Squadron Operations. Locations Alpha.
Note: The pictured patch is not the official patch for 5th SOPS and is the official patch for Detachment 1, component of DEL 9 until 3 June 2024 when DET 1 was inactivated. The official patch for 5th SOPS is still a work in progress and this page will be updated when the imagery becomes available.
(Current as of June 2024)