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Rocket Lab and KSAT Enhance Global Satellite Communication Services

Written by  Sunday, 11 August 2024 19:40
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Los Angeles CA (SPX) Aug 08, 2024
Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) has joined forces with Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT) to develop an advanced global ground station service. This collaboration aims to provide efficient and reliable communications for future Neutron launches, enhanced Electron missions, and various on-orbit operations, spacecraft deorbit, and return-to-Earth missions using Rocket Lab's spacecraft.
Rocket Lab and KSAT Enhance Global Satellite Communication Services
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Aug 08, 2024

Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) has joined forces with Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT) to develop an advanced global ground station service. This collaboration aims to provide efficient and reliable communications for future Neutron launches, enhanced Electron missions, and various on-orbit operations, spacecraft deorbit, and return-to-Earth missions using Rocket Lab's spacecraft.

The Electron launch vehicle, one of the most frequently launched rockets globally, has successfully delivered 191 satellites into space for government and commercial customers. These missions span science and exploration, Earth observation, weather monitoring, and national security.

Rocket Lab is also progressing with the development of its medium-lift reusable rocket, Neutron. Scheduled for mid-2025, Neutron will launch satellite constellations, support national security and defense missions, and facilitate interplanetary missions. Additionally, Rocket Lab designs, builds, launches, and operates spacecraft for various clients, including NASA missions to the Moon and commercial re-entry operations for companies like Varda Space Industries.

In preparation for Neutron's debut launch, Varda's upcoming return-to-Earth missions, and a backlog of over 40 satellites, Rocket Lab and KSAT have co-engineered a new satellite communications service. This service is tailored to meet the demands of these upcoming missions. KSAT, the exclusive ground station service provider for Rocket Lab, has expanded its network to support Rocket Lab's launch and spacecraft operations. The network ensures optimal performance, minimal latency, and robust support throughout the mission lifecycle.

The enhanced satellite communications service now available to KSAT and Rocket Lab customers features unique antenna tracking for complex missions across a global network of more than 200 antennas. It offers real-time telemetry, tracking, and control (TT&C), extended monitoring, control, and data acquisition capabilities in S-band, X-band, and Ka-band, supporting key IRIG-106 modulation codes. Additionally, it includes automated ground station scheduling for satellite passes and other upgraded features.

Rocket Lab's Vice President of Business Development and Strategy, Space Systems, Richard French, commented, "This upgraded satellite communications service for Electron and Neutron launches and across our various spacecraft streamlines our customers' missions and simplifies their access to space. Satellite operators can outsource their satellite operations and communications to us, allowing them to focus on their mission at hand rather than having to build and operate their own ground station infrastructure. We're delighted to be able to ensure our customers benefit from a reliable, scalable service through our ongoing partnership with KSAT."

KSAT's Director of Ground Network Products, Arthur Merlin, added, "Partnering with Rocket Lab exemplifies our commitment to advancing ground network technology through strategic collaborations. This partnership leverages the strengths of both organizations, ensuring seamless and reliable communications for our customers worldwide. We are excited to work closely with Rocket Lab, a leader in innovative launch solutions, to enhance our service offerings and drive forward the development of space communication."

Furthermore, Rocket Lab provides technical and regulatory services as part of its end-to-end mission solutions. These services include support with radio licensing, frequency coordination to manage interference, navigation through complex regulatory environments, and a range of technical support services.

Related Links
Rocket Lab Partners
Rocket Science News at Space-Travel.Com


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