...known publicly as the next generation of "Misty" satellites. The new satellite was to be a stealthy intelligence spacecraft designed to take pictures of adversaries and avoid detection.
Little is known about the nation's classified network of satellites, which represent some of the most expensive government programs and receive almost no public oversight. Because of their multibillion-dollar price tags, sensitive missions and lengthy development schedules, spy agencies go to great pains to keep details from becoming public.
(Director of National Intelligence Mike) McConnell gave no reason for his recent decision.
...the satellite's true name is not publicly known, but it has been assigned a designation of a letter followed by numbers.
Rep. Peter Hoekstra of Michigan...would not identify the program McConnell said was being cut and said he remains doubtful it is truly gone. He said its congressional allies could find a way to bring it back to life through a bill. He also noted that the White House has not sent a revised version of its budget to Congress reflecting McConnell's change.
press release via Unknown News
link to "Misty" entry at Global Security.org
link to wiki article http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misty_(satellite)
Posted by Stubbornson at June 25, 2007 06:54 PM