Space Intel Report
• Peter B. de Selding
The UK spectrum regulator is seeking changes to international rules that limit transmission power for low-Earth-orbit broadband systems in Ku and Ka bands. The restrictions were established about 25 years ago to protect geostationary satellites from interference; Ofcom argues they should be softened for newer LEO constellations.
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The UK spectrum regulator is seeking changes to international rules that limit transmission power for low-Earth-orbit broadband systems in Ku and Ka bands. The restrictions were established about 25 years ago to protect geostationary satellites from interference; Ofcom argues they should be softened for newer LEO constellations.
Duncan Aviation has ordered 40 Gogo Galileo HDX low-Earth-orbit satellite internet systems, in what Gogo describes as its largest single MRO order this year. Duncan says pre-stocking the equipment will help it meet customer requirements.
A Falcon 9 launched 27 Starlink broadband satellites on Oct. 12, the first Starlink mission flown by the rocket since Sept. 19. The launch resumes a cadence of Falcon 9 missions to build out SpaceX’s low Earth orbit broadband constellation.
The Luxembourg-based ispace-EUROPE and Italian space engineering firm ALTEC have signed an MoU to examine collaboration on lunar rover testing, mission simulations and operator training. The work is intended to prepare for future Moon missions; the agreement outlines areas to explore rather than a confirmed program or schedule.
Jena-Optronik says MDA Space will use its ASTRO HP star sensor on a low Earth orbit mission. The announcement marks the sensor’s first mission and adds a component partnership to MDA Space’s work in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, exploration and infrastructure.
NASA has released its final request for proposals inviting U.S. industry to develop, certify and operate privately owned space stations. The solicitation sets out how the agency plans to procure commercial destinations as it prepares for operations beyond the International Space Station.
High activity
NASA has issued a long-awaited call to industry for private space stations, saying it will not give up its presence in low Earth orbit. The move invites companies to develop commercial platforms that could support NASA’s continued orbital operations.
Under the European Space Agency’s NAVISP Element 2 Programme, UAV Navigation-Grupo Oesía is researching whether signals of opportunity from low Earth orbit communications constellations can support resilient navigation for unmanned aircraft systems. The work explores an alternative navigation input for UAS operations.
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