3page

J May- June 2009 1 Contents May- June 2009 10 space power Airmen operate constellations of strategic satellites to provide essential capabilities to warfighters and the nation. 16 space sentinels Professionals across the globe provide early warning against threats in the sky and from space. 20 refitting the armada Ongoing satellite upgrades support warfighters around the globe. 24 space command Air Force Space Command explores the future of space and cyberspace with a focus on ensuring security. 28 above the clouds It takes a precision-driven team to support launches of a myriad of space-bound ve- hicles from rockets to the Space Shuttle. 34 dark knights An elite team of Airmen constantly test their combat rescue and shuttle support skills. 42 guardians of green This Air Force mission includes conserving the environment and defending protected and endangered species. On the Cover A Delta IV Heavy Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle lifts off at Cape Canaveral AFS. photo courtesy Pat Corkery United Launch Alliance design by G. Patrick Harris 2 airmail 4 frontline duty 15 profile 40 tools of the trade 48 notebook 10 24 34 20 16 M AGA Z I N E O F T H E U N ITED S TATES A I R F O RCE May- June 2 009 WWW. aIRMa nONLI NE.AF. MIL airmail J fro ntline duty J profil e J to ols of the tra de J noteb ook SPAC E THE U LTIMA TE HIG H GRO UND Features Departments
3page

01 Contents