SPOCMD203 — Space-based Environmental Monitoring (sbem)

SPOCMD203 governs the mission, organization, and responsibilities of USSF space-based environmental monitoring units.

Search SPOCMD203

  • Publication number: SPOCMD203
  • Title: SPACE-BASED ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING (SBEM)
  • Date: 2023-01-05

View SPOCMD203 on armypubs.army.mil


It covers satellite command and control for the DMSP and EWS-G constellations, environmental data operations, and the roles of SBEM units. It also establishes command relationships, threat-level operations, satellite authority, and support for assigned missions.

Applies to: This MD applies to HQ SpOC and subordinate USSF units and personnel.

Topics covered

  • Satellite command and control
  • DMSP constellation operations
  • EWS-G constellation operations
  • Space-based environmental weather data
  • Satellite Control Authority
  • Threat-level operations
  • Combatant command authority

Questions and answers

What systems does SPOCMD203 identify as part of the SBEM mission?

Primary mission is operating and maintaining systems for satellite Command and Control (C2) of the SBEM constellations to include the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) and the Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Weather System – Geostationary (EWS-G). (paragraph 1)

What threat levels must 19 SDS OL-A be able to operate in?

19 SDS OL-A has been organized and designed to operate in Threat Levels 1, 2, and 3. (paragraph 1)

What authority does 19 SDS OL-A exercise for the DMSP and EWS-G constellations?

19 SDS OL-A is located at the NOAA Space Operations Facility (NSOF), Suitland, Maryland (MD) and exercises Satellite Control Authority (SCA) for both the DMSP and EWS-G constellations to provide 24-hour, space-based, global environmental monitoring weather data to primary DoD weather centers at 557 WW and FNMOC. (paragraph 1)

What is the authority to conduct satellite C2 during anomaly events?

CA is the authority to conduct satellite C2, maintain the satellite in a mission-capable operating configuration, immediately report anomaly events to 19 SDS OL-A Watch Officer, and execute approved actions necessary to “safe” the satellite during anomalies. (paragraph 1)

Who exercises operational command for assigned space operations missions?

As directed by CDRUSSPACECOM, the Combined Joint Task Force – Space Operations (CJTF-SO) exercises operational command and will serve as the single point of contact for military space operational matters to plan, task, direct, and execute space operations. (paragraph 2)

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