USN Completes Launch Services for Italian Earth Observation Satellite
Universal Space Network, Inc. (USN), a leading provider of space operations and ground control and communications services, announced today the successful conclusion of its support for the Launch and Early Orbit (LEOP) of the Italian satellite, COSMO-SkyMed. The earth observation satellite system is the first of four Italian satellites equipped with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensors intended for both military and civilian use. The system architecture is composed of a space segment, a constellation of SAR satellites and a ground segment including full featured user services.
Over the past four days, USN has completed over forty satellite contacts for the spacecraft using USN’s Ground Station in North Pole Alaska, and Network Management Center in Horsham, Pennsylvania. In addition to USN’s direct contributions, the LEOP was assisted by PrioraNet, a global network of satellite ground stations that is jointly managed by USN and the Swedish Space Corporation (SSC). SSC’s Esrange Space Center also supported the LEOP and will continue to maintain on-orbit service to the spacecraft.
“This was a very challenging mission for USN,” said Dave Massey, USN’s Chief Engineer and Project Manager for the program. “We became involved in the project in January of this year, quickly obtained ITAR approval and integrated special ground equipment to support the launch into our Alaskan ground station with all launch preparations completed in less than 5 months. USN, as a proven commercial supplier, is able to be responsive to customer needs and meet the demanding schedules that are expected in these types of operations,” Massey added.
Joe Rothenberg, President and Chief Operations Officer of USN, reported “This is the third launch and early orbit mission that USN has accomplished for Telespazio in the past two years. USN has again demonstrated its ability to provide reliable and cost effective launch and early orbit services to our international customers. We look forward to fulfilling these requirements for the next three COSMO-SkyMed launches.”
The COSMO-SkyMed satellite system, funded by the Italian Ministry of Research and Ministry of Defense, was conducted jointly by the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and the Italian Ministry of Defense. Thales Alenia Space Italia is the prime contractor while USN directly supported Telespazio who is responsible for satellite control and ground network operations.
About Universal Space Network
Universal Space Network, Inc. (USN) is a leader in space operations for telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C) services. Offering responsive, reliable and cost-effective solutions to the global government and commercial space community, USN provides unparalleled coverage through a seamless network of worldwide satellite tracking and communications assets. These assets include both those owned by USN and those of its collaborative partners. The company has offices in Newport Beach, California, and Horsham, Pennsylvania. For more information, please visit http://www.uspacenetwork.com or http://www.prioranet.com.
