If we are willing to set aside the question of detection of objects in the dark, probably by coupling the visible sensor with an infrared counterpart, the visible sensor can provide useful information for ballistic-missile defense applications. The visible FPAs can provide early detection of objects and ultimate detection of smaller objects, compared to infrared systems of similar aperture size. In addition, the increased resolution and field of view provided by the large number of pixels available in modern visible FPAs allows earlier separation of closely spaced objects across larger complexes. As part of this mission an intercontinental ballistic missile was launched out of Kauai, Hawaii, into the Kwajalein atoll. The suite of sensors on board the MSX and a host of ground-based sensors tracked the missile and its deployment hardware during the trajectory.
Several detections are present in the deployment image.
The streaks interspersed throughout the field are stars passing through the field of view of the SBV sensor. This maneuver is evident from the thrust-cone formations of hot hydrazine gas. The PBV has just completed deployment of the collection of objects seen on the right. The MDT II mission was the premier test of ballistic-missile detection for the MSX spacecraft and its sensors. When these images were taken, the range to the complex was approximately a thousand kilometers.