EXCLUSIVE: SpaceX given unique access to DoD space tracking data, sources say
Commercial space monitoring firms are concerned SpaceX's ability to use the best DoD data could threaten the market, sources tell Breaking Defense.
Commercial space monitoring firms are concerned SpaceX's ability to use the best DoD data could threaten the market, sources tell Breaking Defense.
Our number one priority right now is: How do we improve support to space control operations?" Col. Barry Crocker, head of Space Force Mission Delta 2 responsible for keeping tabs on on-orbit threats, told Breaking Defense
The European Union also is funding a series of grant making projects designed to bring innovative technologies into the EU SST program, and support startups to strengthen the industrial base.
LeoLabs also intends to deploy multiple Scout-S mobile phased array radars to fill gaps in its current network of 12 larger radar facilities around the globe.
The big question facing DoD is what happens if the Traffic Coordination System for Space program is scrapped: is US Space Command left holding the space safety bag in perpetuity?
The Space Force expects the US site, the third and final one in the multi-nation DARC network, to complete civil construction in 2029, and begin operations in 2030.
The new Scout-S radar will remain operational after Valiant Shield ends July 1, and already is contributing data to LeoLab's space monitoring network, the company said.
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Interested firms have until Jan. 9 to respond to a Space Force request for information about new wide-field-of-view cameras for a SILENTBARKER replacement constellation.
"Not only are [some Chinese satellites] difficult to visually acquire, that shape, they believe, would be incredibly beneficial in terms of masses of the radar cross section," Chief Master Sergeant Ron Lerch said.
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The reorganization of the JCO will involve two elements: setting up processes for JCO to provide commercial space monitoring data directly to operators and establishing an acquisition pathway for that data.
DARC has been plagued with delays almost since its inception, according to a series of annual studies by the Government Accountability Office.
Based on its orbital pattern, independent astronomer Marco Langbroek said he suspected the new satellite is joining other Russian "sleeping interceptors."
"Transitioning the spaceflight safety SSA responsibilities to DoC, a civil agency, will improve support to these users and allow DoD to focus its resources on core defense missions,” John Hill, DoD's senior space policy officer, said.