AF04-032 TITLE: Programmable Satellite Transceiver (PST) for Dual Band Command and Control
TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Electronics, Space Platforms
OBJECTIVE: Design, build, and test a miniaturized programmable satellite transceiver (PST) for command and control (C2) that operates in both the Space Ground Link Subsystem (SGLS) and Unified S-Band (USB) frequency bands.
DESCRIPTION: The Department of Defense, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration jointly developed a transition plan for implementing an integrated architecture for satellite operations (SATOPS) with the goals of reducing SATOPS costs and increasing interoperability between military and civil space and ground systems. Currently, military space systems use the SGLS frequency band consisting of 1755 – 1850 MHz, whereas civil space systems use the USB frequency band between 2025 – 2110 MHz. Ongoing discussions between the DoD, National Telecommunications and Information Administration, and the Federal Communications Commission may allow for military space systems to use both the SGLS frequency spectrum as well as USB. While the AF Satellite Control Network (AFSCN) Remote Tracking Stations are being upgraded to operate in both SGLS and USB, many of the military satellites are prevented from hosting both SGLS and USB capabilities due to size, power, weight, interface, and cost concerns of the existing available transponders. As a result, the integrated SATOPS architecture will be difficult to attain unless both the military and civil space systems as well as the related ground systems used for command and control can use both frequency bands.
The goal of this initiative is to develop a miniature Programmable Satellite Transceiver (PST) that will enable DoD satellite C2 interoperability with NASA and NOAA. Capable of operating in both SGLS and USB, the PST will have the ability to change frequency bands, waveforms, and protocols on-orbit. In addition to offering jam-resistant command and control of the satellite, its size, power consumption, and weight will be much less than today’s transponders.
PHASE I: Develop a PST subscale demonstration unit for identifying technical limitations, evaluating technology options, and demonstrating potential capabilities. Based upon completed designs and experimental tests, define PST performance goals and provide a blueprint for developing a space-qualified demonstration unit. Work with Space and Missile Center to address integration issues to support future space validation activities.
PHASE II: Further refine the Phase I PST design, and based on that final design, develop a space-qualified PST demonstration unit. Provide a preliminary plan for the PST flight demonstration and validation.
DUAL USE COMMERCIALIZATION: Upon successful development and flight validation of the Programmable Satellite Transceiver (PST), it is anticipated that the PST will enter production and be used on military and civil satellites. Potential military users include the many DoD, AF and Navy space programs. Civil applications include NASA and NOAA earth observing, meteorological, and science missions.
REFERENCES: 1. Singer, J., Defense Dept to Keep Radio Spectrum, Space News, July 29, 2002.
2. Takach, J.E.; Davidovich, S.M.; Weakley, C.K., "The Application of advanced communication technology to the Air Force Satellite Control Network", Military Communications Conference, 11 Oct 1992, pp. 888-892.
3. Comparetto, G.M., "Future space/ground link alternatives for the AFSCN", Military Communications Conference, 5 Nov 1995, pp. 809-813.
KEYWORDS: Integrated Satellite Control, Satellite Command and Control (C2), Transceiver/Transponder, Air Force Satellite Control Network (AFSCN), Space Ground Link Subsystem (SGLS), Unified S-Band (USB)