Space Tracks - 1999 01 - ADA360587

Magazine Overview

Title: SPACE TRACKS
Issue: January/February 1999
Publisher: Naval Space Command
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of SPACE TRACKS, a bulletin on naval space issues and initiatives from the Naval Space Command, highlights the critical role of space-based assets in modern naval warfare. The cover story, "Serving Up Space Imagery," features system engineer Joshua Colwell and emphasizes NAVSPACECOM's ongoing efforts to enhance the exploitation and production of imagery for U.S. operational military forces. The issue includes articles on the capabilities of the Remote Earth Sensing Information Center (RESIC), the importance of the UHF spectrum for warfighters, the new Iridium satellite system, and the operational readiness of NAVSOC's Detachment Charlie.

Perspective: A Naval Warfighter's View of Space

Rear Admiral Thomas E. Zelibor, Commander of Naval Space Command, shares his perspective on space as a vital medium for naval operations. He explains that space is not an end in itself but a means to enable, enhance, and sustain naval warfare. The Navy's dependence on space is driven by the dispersed operating environment and the need for communications, targeting data, imagery, precision location, and environmental data. While satellite communications remain a top priority, Earth imagery from sources like LANDSAT and SPOT is increasingly important for situational awareness, reducing the "fog of war," and improving planning for amphibious and strike missions. However, the increasing dependence on space also brings vulnerabilities, including survivability challenges, competition with the private sector, rising costs, and interoperability issues. The Admiral stresses that present and future naval warfare is inextricably linked to space, and NAVSPACECOM intends to integrate space technology further into naval operations.

Rear Admiral Thomas Zelibor Assumes Command of NAVSPACE

This article introduces Rear Admiral Thomas E. Zelibor as the 13th Commander for Naval Space Command, assuming duties on October 1, 1998. It details his extensive career, including 20 years of fleet experience as a naval flight officer, fighter squadron and air wing skipper. His background includes service on the Joint Staff and extensive combat experience, including Operation Desert Shield/Storm. Rear Admiral Zelibor graduated from the Naval Academy in 1976 and has accumulated over 1,000 carrier landings and 3,350 tactical flight hours. His personal awards are listed, highlighting his distinguished service.

Vice Admiral Natter New Director for Space

Vice Admiral Robert J. Natter has assumed duties as Director for Space, Information Warfare, Command and Control (N6) on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations. The article outlines his diverse naval career, including sea tours on various vessels, executive officer roles, command of USS Chandler and USS Antietam, and commanding the U.S. Seventh Fleet. His shore assignments include roles at the Pentagon and the House Armed Services Committee. The Admiral's background also includes service in Vietnam and extensive experience in personnel and legislative affairs.

Navy Poised to Ensure Successful GEOSAT Follow-On Satellite Operations

By Michael J. Crawford, GFO project engineer for NAVSOC, this article details the successful operations of the Geodetic/Geophysical Satellite Follow-On (GFO) altimetry satellite. Launched on February 10, 1998, the GFO operations team has moved the satellite into its Exact Repeat Orbit and standardized operations. NAVSOC's Remote Earth Sensing Information Center (RESIC) and its Detachment ALFA in Maine, along with Detachment CHARLIE in Guam, have played crucial roles. The article highlights the success of the in-house developed Doppler Orbit Computer (DOC) and the Doppler Tracking System (GDTS). It also mentions the partnership with Raytheon STX for DOC software and Ball Aerospace and Technologies Corporation for satellite control authority. Future plans include NAVSOC duty satellite managers (DSMs) assuming routine operations and data flow to the Naval Oceanographic Office.

Spotlight on NAVSOC's Detachment Charlie

This piece by ETC(AW/SW) Sherry R. Rose focuses on NAVSOC's Detachment Charlie located on Guam. This detachment provides 24-hour EHF and SHF telemetry, tracking, and commanding for UHF Follow-On (UFO) satellites and monitors on-orbit SHF telemetry for FLTSAT and UFO satellites. It also performs Doppler collection for the GEOSAT Follow-on (GFO) satellite. The article emphasizes the detachment's resilience, particularly its ability to remain operational within 24 hours after super typhoon Paka hit Guam on December 16, 1997, despite widespread devastation. The detachment's specialized housing for its antenna successfully withstood extreme winds, showcasing the effectiveness of their maintenance and hardening efforts.

The Spectrum of Choice for Mobile Warfighters

By Al Sapp, this article discusses the critical importance of the ultra-high-frequency (UHF) spectrum for mobile warfighters. The U.S. Government is considering selling or leasing military assets, including frequency spectrum, to private industry. The loss of the UHF spectrum would severely hamper military operations, as it provides invaluable capabilities for satellite communications, enabling secure, direct connectivity for infantrymen and other warfighters in harsh environments. While other spectrums like EHF and SHF have their uses, UHF's ability to penetrate foliage and rain makes it uniquely suited for mobile operations. The article notes that demand for UHF services currently exceeds availability, with estimates showing the spectrum is oversubscribed by 250 percent. The Department of Defense is committed to improving spectrum efficiency through techniques like Demand Assigned Multiple Access (DAMA).

Iridium... Whether By Land Or By Sea?

By Thomas B. Sanford, this article introduces the Iridium satellite communications system, a new low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation of 66 satellites designed to provide worldwide telephone and low-data-rate service. Launched on November 1, 1998, Iridium allows users to place calls from anywhere on Earth using handheld, cellular-phone-sized handsets that can access satellites when terrestrial cellular sites are out of range. The system utilizes inter-satellite links (crosslinks) and gateways for signal transfer. Potential government uses include CINC communications, search and rescue, and disaster relief. While the full cost structure is still being defined, the Iridium system is expected to be a valuable addition to military communications capabilities, offering global coverage and a handheld phone solution.

'Digital Seabag' Provides Customized Space Imagery to Deploying Units to Enhance Situational Awareness and Assist in Mission Planning

By Lt. Bryan Jung, this article details how Naval Space Command (NAVSPACECOM) provides remote-sensed multi-spectral imagery (MSI) products through its Remote Earth Sensing Information Center (RESIC) to Navy and Fleet Marine Forces. RESIC utilizes data from commercial satellites like LANDSAT and SPOT, and has partnered with the National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA) to broaden its support. They produce custom products, including LANDSAT merges with NIMA's Controlled Image Base (CIB) and ARC digitized raster graphics (ADRG), to overlay digitized maps onto imagery. RESIC is also exploring hyper-spectral imagery and future capabilities with the Naval Earth Map Observer (NEMO) satellite. A new initiative, the "Digital Seabag," provides exploited imagery on CD-ROMs for specific purposes or regions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the indispensable role of space-based assets and technologies in supporting modern naval warfare and operations. The Naval Space Command is portrayed as a vital organization dedicated to providing cutting-edge space imagery, communication capabilities, and data to ensure the warfighter's edge. There is a strong emphasis on the integration of space technology into all facets of naval operations, from intelligence and planning to direct combat support. The magazine highlights the command's commitment to innovation, resilience, and adapting to new technologies like the Iridium system and advanced imagery exploitation. The editorial stance is clearly pro-space utilization and emphasizes its growing importance and the need for continued investment and development in this domain.

This issue of SPACE TRACKS, dated January/February 1999, is published by the Naval Space Command and focuses on various aspects of naval and space operations, personnel achievements, and technological advancements.

RESIC: Extensive Imagery Archive and Capabilities

The lead article details the Naval Space Command's Remote Sensing Imagery Exploitation Center (RESIC). RESIC is staffed by eight military personnel and civilian contractors, including Lt. Bryan Jung as program manager and Chief Operations Specialist David Litten. The center provides production and maintenance support, with active-duty Navy members like Petty Officers Jesse Woods, Rockell Powell, and Jennifer Reinhart, and civilian experts like Joshua Colwell, Jim Moeller, and James Clingensmith. The staff is augmented by Naval Reservists from NAVSPACECOM 0166 and 0266.

RESIC is equipped with state-of-the-art imagery exploitation hardware and software, utilizing Silicon Graphics and Hewlett Packard HP processors. It employs commercial off-the-shelf software such as EDGE, ERDAS Imagine, ER Mapper, ENVI, IDL, and ARC/INFO. The center boasts an extensive in-house imagery archive containing nearly 3,000 Landsat/SPOT scenes, over 6,500 controlled image base (CIB) images, and more than 7,000 ARC digitized raster graphics (ADRG) data sets. For storage, RESIC uses over 45 hard drives totaling 260 gigabytes of online storage, with an additional two terabytes of data archive capability. They can produce up to 75 CD-ROMs using their own recording studio.

RESIC products are available in large-format (30"x47") and small-format (8.5"x11") prints, as well as soft-copy formats like 4-mm and 8-mm tapes, CD-ROMs, and VHS tapes. Electronic formats include IMG, LAN, ERS, BIL, BSQ, BUP, TIF, GEOTIF, BMP, and GIF. In fiscal year 1998, RESIC produced almost 5,000 custom products used for mission planning, intelligence preparation, mission rehearsal, MC&G supplement, order of battle disposition, change detection, broad area coverage, situational awareness, bathymetry, amphibious operations, target area analysis, and trafficability studies.

RESIC is committed to timely dissemination of customized imagery. Hard-copy products are delivered via postal service or express mail. Data sets can also be uploaded electronically via GBS, JBS, SIPRNET, JDISS, or JWICS. A web page for RESIC is accessible via Naval Space Command's home page on SIPRNET, allowing samples to be viewed and ordered. Future connectivity to SIPRNET will enable direct data set uploads for customer access.

Imagery dissemination via "ZINC" software allows authorized clients to pull compressed imagery to a PC/Laptop for limited exploitation. The Commercial Imagery Dissemination (CID) system, scheduled for receipt, will enable RESIC to receive NIMA or CSIL data directly via satellite, enhancing its ability to deliver products in a timely manner.

For more information, RESIC can be contacted via email at [email protected] or through its SIPRNET address. The physical location is the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren, Va. A recently completed orientation CD-ROM provides an overview of RESIC's mission and capabilities.

News Briefs

Space Surveillance Contract Awarded

Chugach Telecommunications and Computers, Inc. (CTCI) of Anchorage, Alaska, has been awarded a five-year contract to operate and maintain Naval Space Command's network of space surveillance field stations. The first year is priced at $6.4 million, with a total contract value of approximately $31 million. CTCI employs over 100 people across nine field stations in eight states. The network, operational since 1961, is the nation's only unalerted sensor dedicated to tracking space objects. It maintains a space object database for nearly 70 percent of all objects in space, capturing data on 22,000 daily cross-ins of space objects over the United States. CTCI is a subsidiary of the Chugach Alaska Corporation.

Tracking John Glenn – 36 Years Later

This article recounts John Glenn's historic orbital flight on February 20, 1962, aboard Friendship 7. It highlights the role of the Navy's space surveillance network in tracking his spacecraft. The network's San Diego, Calif., receiver station captured signal strength and interferometer readings. The article also notes Glenn's return to space aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery mission STS-95 in November, where his orbit was again detected by Naval Space Command's modernized surveillance system. The number of tracked space objects has grown significantly from less than 200 in 1962 to nearly 10,000 when Glenn journeyed into space again 36 years later.

Space Artists Meet Astronaut

NASA astronaut and Navy Capt. Steve Oswald congratulated fourth-grader Cedrick Calza for his prize-winning entry in the Navy Space Art Contest, sponsored by the United States Space Foundation. The contest, themed "Steering By the Stars," involved over 60 students from the Dahlgren, Va., area.

Naval Aviators Tapped for '98 NASA Astronaut Class

Eight Navy and Marine Corps aviators were selected for the 1998 Astronaut Candidate Class. They will undergo a one-year training and evaluation period at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. The candidates include Lt. Cmdr. Christopher J. Ferguson, Cmdr. Michael J. Foreman, Lt.Cmdr. Kenneth T. Ham, Lt. William A. Oefelein, Lt.Cmdr. Alan G. Poindexter, Lt.Cmdr. Sunita L. Williams, Lt. Neil W. Woodward III, and Marine Maj. George D. Zamka.

Space Training Courses Offered

The issue lists several space training courses: Interservice Space Intelligence Operations Course (ISIOC), Interservice Space Intelligence Operations Senior Course (ISIOSC), and Interservice Space Fundamentals Course (ISFC). These courses are offered to military and civilian personnel at various levels and require different clearance levels. Dates for FY99 are provided, and contact information for obtaining quotas is included.

In Memory Alan Shepard

This section pays tribute to Apollo astronaut Alan B. Shepard, Jr., who died on July 22 at age 74. Shepard was the first American in space and the fifth human to walk on the Moon. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1944 and served as a naval aviator. He was one of NASA's first seven astronauts chosen in April 1959. Shepard commanded the Apollo 14 mission and retired as a rear admiral. Naval Space Command's headquarters in Dahlgren, Va., is named in honor of Shepard and Senator John H. Glenn, Jr. Shepard's quote emphasizes the importance of maintaining U.S. space leadership for technological advancement.

Work & Leisure

Young Marines

This article profiles the "Young Marines" program, a youth organization for 8 to 18-year-olds that emphasizes discipline, respect, military bearing, and self-esteem. OS2(SW) Joseph White, from Fleet Surveillance Support Command, explains that participants undergo a 13-week "boot camp" and must maintain a "C" average in school. The program aims to instill pride, worth, and belonging in children, with many experiencing significant positive changes in behavior and grades. The Young Marines motto is "Learn today to lead tomorrow."

Naval Space Command Civilian Personnel Decorated

Twenty-two members of Naval Space Command received honorary awards for long-term exceptional performance. The Superior Civilian Service Award was presented to Pieter Traas, Dr. John Springer, Carmond Robbins, Carroll Hayden, Joyce Davis, Gail Workman, Harold Meyers, John Trammell, Dr. Paul Schumacher, Jr., and Patricia S. Langley. The Meritorious Civilian Service Award was given to Philip LaTulippe, Diane Leite, Samuel Estill, Diane Jacobs, Anita Norris, Kenneth St. Clair, Deborah Perini, James Rose, Jr., Michael Carr, Wendolyn Brown, Edna Jenkins, and Terri Smith. Brief descriptions of their contributions and roles within Naval Space Command are provided.

Civilian Length of Service Awards

This section highlights long-term service awards for 30 and 25 years, recognizing individuals like Pieter Traas and Joyce B. Davis.

People of the Quarter

Civilian and military personnel at Naval Space Command were recognized for July-September 1998. Petty Officer 1st Class Henry E. Johnson was named Sailor of the Quarter. Petty Officer 2nd Class Tina M. Callis was Junior Sailor of the Quarter. Diane M. Anderson was Civilian of the Quarter, and Tammy L. Hudson was ADP Watchstander of the Quarter.

Awards & Recognition

This section lists various awards and commendations presented to personnel. Awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medals, Meritorious Service Medals, Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medals, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medals, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, NATO Medal, Good Conduct Awards, Navy Sharpshooter Pistol Ribbon, Navy Expert Pistol Medals, Auxiliary Security Force Academy recognitions, Outstanding PRT Scores, Special Achievement Awards, and Letters of Commendation. Specific individuals and their citations are detailed.

Calendar

The Calendar section lists upcoming Meetings & Symposia and Courses & Seminars. Events include West '99, Virtual Government '99, Southeast C41 Conference & Exposition, Sea-Air-Space Systems & Technology Exposition, and Global Air & Space Business Forum & Exposition. Courses and seminars cover topics such as GPS Solutions, Mobile Communication Satellites, Spacecraft Systems Design & Engineering, Fundamentals of Orbital & Launch Mechanics, Small Satellite Design & Technology, SATCOM Systems Engineering, Ground Station Design, Military Satellite Communications, The U.S. Intelligence Community, and C4ISR Architecture Framework Implementation.

Department of the Navy

This section provides the address for Naval Space Command in Dahlgren, Va., and indicates that the mailing is third-class bulk rate.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical role of naval space operations, intelligence, and surveillance. There is a strong emphasis on recognizing and honoring the achievements of both military and civilian personnel, highlighting their dedication and expertise. The magazine also promotes youth development programs like the Young Marines and keeps readers informed about technological advancements and training opportunities in the space and defense sectors. The editorial stance appears to be one of support for the military, recognition of individual contributions, and promotion of technological excellence and readiness within the Naval Space Command.