The USS Lake Erie (CG 70) launches a Standard Missile-3 at a non-functioning National Reconnaissance Office satellite as it traveled in space at more than 17,000 mph over the Pacific Ocean on Feb. 20, 2008. The objective was to rupture the satellite's fuel tank to dissipate the approximately 1,000 pounds (453 kg) of hydrazine, a hazardous material which could pose a danger to people on earth, before it entered into earth's atmosphere. The USS Lake Erie is an Aegis guided missile cruiser. USS Decatur (DDG 73) and USS Russell (DDG 59) were also part of the task force.

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Keywords: archive, armed, defence, forces, military, reportage, servicemen, usa