Steely Newsletter Issue #053 |
Read all about the near collision of an American and Russian satellite earlier this year, Astranis developing a new larger GEO broadband satellite, the current state of global satellite cybersecurity and the steps governments are taking to address concerns, and so much more! |
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| | Yahoo News | Sarah Knapton | 04-10-2024 A near-miss incident between a defunct Russian satellite and a NASA spacecraft on February 28th raised concerns about the increasing amount of debris in space. The collision could have shattered the satellites and created a cloud of fast-moving debris, posing a threat to operational spacecraft and potentially hindering space exploration. NASA is implementing a Space Sustainability Strategy to track and monitor objects in orbit to prevent such incidents and is calling for international collaboration to address this growing problem. | Space News | Jason Rainbow | 04-10-2024 Astranis plans to launch a new generation of broadband satellites called Omega in 2026. These satellites will be bigger and more powerful than Astranis' current offerings, providing over 50 gigabits per second of throughput compared to 10-12 Gbps for previous models. Omega satellites will still be smaller than traditional geostationary satellites to keep launch costs down. To achieve high performance in a small package, Omega will use Astranis-designed semiconductors and larger deployable reflectors. The company is also working to bring more parts manufacturing in-house to streamline production. The first Omega flight vehicle is expected to be completed in mid-2025. | Space News | Enrico Ottolini | 04-10-2024 The satellite and cellular communication industries are on the verge of merging due to the upcoming launch of new LEO satellites and the development of new seamless network standards. This merger has the potential to revolutionize global connectivity by combining the strengths of both industries. Historically, satellite operators have focused on highly tailored services for specific markets while cellular operators have provided generic solutions for mass markets. Satellite operators excel in global coverage, especially in remote areas, while cellular operators boast superior network flexibility and service development speed. However, challenges exist. New LEO satellite operators are currently offering proprietary solutions, hindering market adoption. Additionally, legacy satellite operators might be making a strategic misstep by focusing on limited Direct-to-Device services. |
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🛡️Satellite Cybersecurity News |
| Via Satellite | Mark Holmes | 04-11-2024 The Space Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Space ISAC) announced a partnership with the French space agency, CNES, to improve cybersecurity information sharing and space security awareness. This collaboration will focus on developing recommendations and standards for the space sector, along with joint research projects and response mechanisms. By working together, Space ISAC and CNES aim to create a safer and more secure space environment for all. | Forbes | Chuck Brooks | 04-09-2024 There is a growing concern about cyberattacks on satellites and other space systems, due to their critical role in communications, navigation, and other aspects of modern life. As the number of satellites increases, so does the vulnerability to hacking. Governments and organizations around the world are working together to develop cybersecurity measures to protect these vital assets. The United States, Europe, and Japan are all taking steps to improve space cybersecurity. In the US, there is new legislation and working groups focused on protecting space systems. Europe has a new shared defense plan for space assets, and the European Space Agency is developing secure satellite communication systems. Japan recently announced a Space Security Initiative to outline its plans for space security over the next decade. International cooperation is seen as essential to securing space systems. |
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| | everythingRF | 04-03-2024 Hughes Network Systems has launched a new electronically steerable antenna-based (ESA) terminal called HL1120W that works with Eutelsat OneWeb's low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network. This collaboration brings high-speed and reliable internet connectivity to remote areas. HL1120W is designed for outdoor use, with a lightweight and weather-resistant build. It also comes with an indoor unit that provides Wi-Fi 6 and multiple LAN ports. This terminal is a great solution for applications that require low latency and internet access in hard-to-reach locations. |
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| | SatNews | 04-11-2024 A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket blasted off from California on Thursday, carrying a critical weather satellite for the U.S. Space Force. This mission, named USSF-62, marks the third launch for the Falcon 9 booster and will enhance America's space-based environmental monitoring. The WSF-M satellite aboard the rocket will collect vital weather data, such as ocean wind and ice thickness, to support military operations worldwide. This launch highlights the ongoing role of Vandenberg Space Force Base in ensuring the U.S. has access to space for critical missions. |
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🏛️US Government Satellite News |
| Via Satellite | David Hodes | 04-12-2024 A growing concern about hostile actions against satellites is leading to closer collaboration between the military and commercial space sectors. The U.S. Space Command emphasizes the importance of this integration for national security and deterrence. Information sharing and proactive partnership building are seen as crucial for success, with the government potentially offering incentives and even physical protection to commercial satellite companies. The industry is already investing heavily in cyber resilience, but is calling for improved communication and a deeper understanding of how both sides operate in order to effectively navigate a contested environment. | Inc. | Kit Eaton | 04-12-2024 In a sign of the changing times for space exploration, the US military awarded contracts to two small companies, True Anomaly and Rocket Lab, for a mission called Victus Haze. This project aims to develop a highly responsive space capability where rockets and satellites can be launched quickly in response to potential threats. Unlike traditional lengthy space missions, Victus Haze prioritizes speed. The goal is to have these satellites and rockets ready for launch within days of receiving an order. True Anomaly and Rocket Lab will build the necessary spacecraft and command centers to achieve this rapid deployment. This project signifies a growing role for agile commercial space companies in military space operations. |
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