Steely Newsletter Issue #042 |
Read all about what to watch for in the Smallsat industry in 2024, how LEO PNT is a game changer for GNSS, 10 defining moments in satellite cybersecurity in 2023, and so much more! |
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| | Via Satellite | Tim Kienberger | 01-12-2024 The space industry is poised for a remarkable year in 2024, driven by converging trends like cheaper launch options, technological advancements, and regulatory shifts. Expect a surge in satellite launches, from massive constellations in Low Earth Orbit to powerful platforms in Geostationary orbit. This growth will be fueled by advancements in areas like 3D printing, AI-powered data analysis, and efficient propulsion systems. Meanwhile, regulatory changes and strengthened public-private partnerships will create a more stable and supportive environment for space exploration and commercialization. This year promises to be a turning point for the satellite industry, paving the way for increased access to space-based data and unlocking new possibilities for businesses and governments alike. | Inside GNSS | Peter Gutierrez | 01-18-2024 ESA's revolutionary LEO PNT program is poised for launch in 2025-26, testing low-orbit satellites for enhanced navigation and autonomous vehicle applications. Two European consortiums will build the demonstration systems, exploring new frequency bands and collaborating with end users. Galileo, Europe's GNSS, will see four new satellites in 2024, with ten more in the pipeline and twelve next-generation ones on the way, ensuring robust global service. |
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🛡️Satellite Cybersecurity News |
| Via Satellite | Mark Holmes | 01-17-2024 Via Satellite, identifies ten significant events in cybersecurity and satellite for 2023. A few key takeaways are: Cybersecurity threats are real and growing. Attacks on critical infrastructure like the FAA outage and the Pennsylvania water system highlight the potential consequences of cyberattacks. Standards and regulations are being developed. The launch of the IEEE International Technical Standard for Space System Cybersecurity is a major step towards improving space cybersecurity. The industry is taking steps to improve. Events like Hack-A-Sat are helping to identify and address vulnerabilities in satellite systems. By working together, the space industry can build a more secure future for space operations. |
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| | Space.com | Mike Wall | 01-22-2024 After weather postponed Sunday's attempt, SpaceX plans another launch of 22 Starlink satellites from California on Tuesday evening. The Falcon 9 rocket will carry the internet-beaming spacecraft into low Earth orbit, following a previous aborted liftoff last Friday. If successful, the mission will add to SpaceX's ever-growing Starlink constellation, which already boasts over 5,250 operational satellites. Tune in to the live webcast to witness the fiery launch and potential landing on a drone ship in the Pacific Ocean. |
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🏛️US Government Satellite News |
| Via Satellite | Rachel Jewett | 01-19-2024 The U.S. Office of Space Commerce is teaming up with COMSPOC, LeoLabs, and Slingshot Aerospace to test a new system for tracking and managing satellites in orbit. This "pathfinder" project will help ensure safe and sustainable spaceflight, especially as the number of satellites rapidly increases. The companies will focus on tracking objects in low Earth orbit, and the data they gather will inform the development of a broader space traffic coordination system. This shift from military to commercial control of such services is part of a long-term effort by the U.S. government to promote innovation and safety in the booming space industry. | Space News | Sandra Erwin | 01-17-2024 The Department of Defense is loosening restrictions on classified space information to enhance collaboration with allies and private companies. They believe this will improve space security without compromising sensitive data. Additionally, the DoD is developing a strategy to integrate commercial space capabilities into defense programs, working closely with the Space Force on a complementary plan. Finally, the Pentagon is interested in utilizing SpaceX's Starlink satellites but acknowledges the need for more competition in the low-Earth orbit broadband market. | Space News | Sandra Erwin | 01-16-2024 The U.S. Space Force has awarded contracts to three companies to build and operate satellites that will track hypersonic missiles. The satellites will be part of a network of satellites in low orbit that will be able to track missiles in all phases of flight. The contracts are worth a total of $2.5 billion and will launch in 2027. L3Harris, Lockheed Martin, and Sierra Space will each build 18 satellites. The satellites will use infrared sensors to track missiles. Lockheed Martin's satellites will use Terran Orbital buses and infrared missile-tracking payloads provided by General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems. Geost, a supplier of sensors for military satellites, was selected by Sierra Space to provide 18 infrared payloads for SDA's satellites — 16 Mercury missile warning and missile tracking payloads and two Phoenix fire control payloads. The satellites will launch in 2027 and will be part of a network of about 100 satellites that will be able to track missiles from anywhere on Earth. |
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