USS CANOPUS

• Namesake: USS Canopus (AS-34) was named after the star Canopus, which is the second-brightest star in the night sky and traditionally used for navigation by sailors. • Commissioned in 1965: USS Canopus was commissioned on November 4, 1965, as a submarine tender designed to support the US Navy’s ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). • Polaris and Poseidon Missiles: The ship played a critical role in the Cold War, providing maintenance, logistical support, and resupply for Polaris and later Poseidon missile-equipped submarines. • First Homeport - Rota, Spain: Shortly after commissioning, Canopus was stationed at Rota, Spain, serving as a vital overseas support base for the Atlantic Fleet’s submarine force. • Unique Conversion: The ship was originally laid down as a Maritime Administration hull (SSP-282), converted during construction to serve as a submarine tender with specialized facilities. • Involvement in the Holy Loch: In 1970, USS Canopus moved to the Holy Loch, Scotland, replacing USS Simon Lake and continuing support for the “boomers” of Submarine Squadron 14. • Gender Integration Milestone: In 1979, Canopus became one of the first US Navy ships to embark female sailors, marking a significant step in gender integration at sea. • Overhaul and Modernization: The ship underwent a major overhaul from 1976–1977 at Charleston Naval Shipyard to upgrade her capabilities for supporting the Poseidon missile system. • Support Operations: Beyond maintenance, Canopus provided medical, dental, and recreational facilities for submarine crews, making her a floating city and vital morale center. • Decommissioning and Fate: USS Canopus was decommissioned on January 7, 1994, after nearly three decades of service, and was eventually scrapped in 2010.