1st Space Operations Squadron
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.
| 1st Space Operations Squadron | |
|---|---|
1 SOPS emblem | |
| Active | 1961–1976; 1987–present |
| Country | United States |
| Branch | United States Space Force |
| Role | On-orbit Command and Control |
| Part of | Space Delta 9 |
| Garrison/HQ | Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, U.S. |
| Motto(s) | |
| Decorations | Air Force Outstanding Unit Award |
| Commanders | |
| Commander | Lt Col Galen Thorp |
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.