Space Tracks - 2001 10

Magazine Overview

Title: SPACE TRACKS
Issue Date: October 2001
Publisher: Naval Space Command

This issue of SPACE TRACKS, published by the Naval Space Command, focuses on the command's vital role in supporting naval operations through space-based technologies and services. The cover features a powerful image of an American flag with a quote from President George W. Bush dated September 21, 2001, reflecting the national mood following the September 11th terrorist attacks.

Key Articles and Features

New Commanders and Staff Changes

The "SPACELINES" section announces upcoming leadership transitions. Rear Admiral John P. Cryer, III is set to relieve Rear Admiral Richard J. Mauldin as commander of Naval Space Command in December. Rear Admiral Mauldin will be reassigned as the U.S. defense attaché to China. The article details Rear Admiral Cryer's extensive naval career, including his experience with electronic warfare, deployments, and various staff positions. Colonel Raymond Adamiec is introduced as the new Deputy Commander and Chief Staff Officer, succeeding Colonel John T. Hill. Colonel Adamiec's background in aviation logistics and his progression through various Marine Corps roles are highlighted.

Space Support Services

Page 2 outlines the comprehensive "Space Support Services" offered by the Naval Space Command. These services include operational status/exercise support summaries accessible via a home page, space operations center for intelligence and tactical assessments, and specialized support teams providing tailored information and training. The Remote Earth Sensing Information Center (RESIC) is detailed for its use of satellite imagery for planning and operations, supporting applications like target area analysis, bathymetry, and intelligence preparation of the battlefield.

Satellite Programs and Technology

Navy Orders Eleventh UHF F/O Spacecraft: The Navy has authorized Boeing Satellite Systems to produce the 11th UHF Follow-On (UHF F/O) spacecraft, extending the global communications network into the latter part of the decade. This spacecraft will utilize the Boeing 601 satellite bus and provide narrowband two-way battlefield connectivity and an EHF payload.

Naval Academy Spacecraft to Aid Amateur Radio Operators: The first satellite designed and constructed by U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen, PCSat, was launched into orbit. PCSat will serve as a worldwide position/status reporting and message communications satellite for users of the Amateur Position Reporting System, providing direct location reporting via its onboard GPS receiver.

Precision Carrier Approach and Landing System Uses Space Navigation Satellites: The article details the successful first fully automated landing at sea using GPS satellites by the Joint Precision Approach and Landing System (JPALS) program aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt. This technology aims to provide constant 3-D coverage for numerous aircraft and enhance interoperability for amphibious ships and international airports.

ROTHR Site Rebuilt Following Fire

RIBBON CUTTING MARKS RETURN TO NORMAL OPERATIONS: The Fleet Surveillance Support Command (FSSC) celebrated the full recovery of its Relocatable Over-the-Horizon Radar (ROTHR) transmitter site in New Kent, Va., after an electrical fire caused significant damage. The ROTHR system is crucial for interdicting illegal drug flow into the U.S. The site was brought back online quickly with enhancements, minimizing downtime.

Surveillance Station Supervisors Convene

Technical supervisors from Naval Space Command's nine field stations met in Dahlgren, Va., for a conference focused on current and future space surveillance issues, maintenance, and new test equipment. The conference aimed to promote technical information exchange and identify expertise sources among personnel.

Space Tracks Receives CHINFO Merit Award

Space Tracks, the Naval Space Command's quarterly news magazine, was awarded the Chief of Information (CHINFO) 2000 Merit Award for exemplary achievement and professional excellence in journalism, marking its second such award.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the critical role of space in modern naval warfare and operations. It highlights the technological advancements, training initiatives, and operational support provided by the Naval Space Command. The editorial stance is one of promoting awareness and understanding of space capabilities within the naval community and showcasing the command's contributions to national security, particularly in areas like intelligence, surveillance, and interdiction efforts. The inclusion of the September 11th quote and imagery underscores the context of national security and defense in the post-9/11 era.

This issue of SPACE TRACKS, dated October 2001, focuses on the evolving landscape of naval space operations, training, and technological advancements. The cover story, "The Way Ahead For Naval Space," by Rear Admiral Richard J. Mauldin, highlights the "Time of Tremendous Opportunity" ushered in by the Space Commission's report and Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld's directives to restructure DoD's space management. The article emphasizes the integral role of space in modern military operations and the need for increased synergy among the services.

Key Articles and Features

"The Way Ahead For Naval Space" by Rear Admiral Richard J. Mauldin

Rear Admiral Mauldin discusses the significant changes in U.S. national security space management, with the Air Force designated as the executive agent for space within DoD. However, he stresses that the Army and Navy will continue to establish unique requirements and develop their own space systems. He highlights the "tremendous opportunity" for increased synergy and cooperation among services, noting that space is fundamental to naval warfare, providing instantaneous and complete information crucial for modern weapons systems. He also touches upon the loss of communications and intelligence data without space capabilities, citing the Desert Storm experience.

"Entering the Realm of Space" by Martha Thorn

This article details the Naval Academy's engagement with space education, supported by Naval Space Command. It features aerospace engineering majors presenting their space projects to Rear Admiral Mauldin and NAVSPACECOM staff. The visit was part of NAVSPACECOM's annual review of the academy's space curriculum. One of the presented designs is slated to be built and launched aboard a space shuttle. The article also mentions the cost of these projects, ranging from $3 billion to $27,000, and highlights the midshipmen's enthusiasm and innovative approaches.

"Command-Sponsored Curriculum Brings Space Technology to Forefront"

This piece elaborates on the Naval Space Command's sponsorship of a space research chair at the Naval Academy since 1985. The program aims to expose midshipmen and faculty to cutting-edge space technologies. The faculty initiated an undergraduate program in astronautical engineering in 1983, offering specialized tracks. NAVSPACECOM also funded a satellite Earth station antenna at the academy in 1988. The article notes that over the past decade, an average of 30 midshipmen have graduated annually with an astronautics degree.

"UAV Flies Prototype Signals Intelligence System" by Lt. Christopher Nerney

This article reports on a successful demonstration of prototype signals intelligence (SIGINT) collection systems during Fleet Battle Experiment INDIA (FBE-I). The Navy Tactical Exploitation of National Capabilities (TENCAP) office, Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), and SPAWAR System Center (SSC-SD) partnered with Naval Reserve NAVSPACECOM 0766. The demonstration involved flying SIGINT collection systems aboard the Naval Postgraduate School's ALTUS unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) over Camp Pendleton, California. The systems, including COPPERFIELD and DRAGONFLY, explored cross-platform geolocation of conventional command and control radios and demonstrated the first Navy single-platform SIGINT cuing of imagery intelligence (IMINT).

"Focus On Building Space Expertise" and "Space Expertise Critical to Fleet Superiority" by Lt. Irvin Gray

These articles detail Naval Space Command's establishment of a Training and Space Education Division (N7) to enhance Sailors' expertise in space-based technology. The division consolidates previous efforts and aims to develop a cadre of space-smart naval personnel. The articles highlight the challenges of providing space education to deployed personnel and the command's strategy to use web-based technology and involve personnel from various areas. Curtis D. Bell heads the new division, with Cmdr. Matthew Rausch as deputy director. The initiative addresses the need to institutionalize space training within the naval force support structure and advocate for naval space requirements.

"Retired CWO Heads New Space Training Division"

This section introduces Curtis Bell, a retired Navy Chief Warrant Officer, as the first director of NAVSPACECOM's Space Education and Training Division. Bell has extensive experience in naval space operations, including a tour with NAVSPACECOM and roles in global broadcast service programs and special operations communications.

"STS-100 Robotic Arm Added to Space Station"

This report covers the Space Shuttle Endeavour mission STS-100, launched on April 19, 2001. Commanded by Navy Capt. Kent Rominger, the mission successfully installed a new Canadian-built robotic arm (Canadarm2) and an ultra-high-frequency communications antenna on the International Space Station (ISS). The crew also transferred over 6,000 pounds of supplies and equipment.

"STS-105 Expedition 3 Crew Delivered by Discovery"

This article details the Space Shuttle Discovery mission STS-105, launched on August 10, 2001. The mission delivered the three-member Expedition 3 crew, including commander Navy Captain Frank Culbertson, to the ISS. The payload included the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module, and the crew transferred over two tons of experiment hardware and supplies. Mission specialists performed two space walks.

"MISSION ACCOMPLISHED: Tracking the Space Station"

This section provides information on tracking the International Space Station (ISS), orbiting at an average altitude of 240 statute miles. It notes that the ISS is the third brightest object in the night sky and offers websites for sighting opportunities and educational materials related to space exploration.

"Detachment Focus On Quality Improvement Enhances Mission, Esprit de Corps" by Lt. Irvin Gray

This article highlights the efforts of Naval Space Command Detachment Echo in Stuttgart, Germany. The detachment is responsible for training and deploying Sailors to operate the Joint Tactical Ground Station (JTAGS), a theater missile warning system. The article details their focus on quality of support, working environment, and quality of life for Sailors and their families, noting advancements in operator proficiency and professional development.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the increasing importance of space in naval operations, the strategic initiatives to enhance space expertise within the Navy, and the technological advancements enabling these capabilities. The magazine emphasizes a proactive stance towards space, advocating for robust training, development of specialized personnel, and the integration of space systems into all facets of naval warfare. The editorial stance appears to be strongly supportive of investing in and prioritizing space capabilities for future military success and maintaining U.S. leadership in space.

Title: SPACE TRACKS
Issue Date: October 2001
Publisher: Naval Space Command
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of SPACE TRACKS focuses on the people and activities within the Naval Space Command, highlighting individual achievements, command changes, educational initiatives, and historical space milestones.

Det Echo and Quality of Life

The magazine details the efforts of Det Echo and JTAGS Europe in supporting the quality of life for Navy families in forward-deployed environments. The Ombudsman/Family Readiness Group (FRG) program sponsors recreational activities like a trip to the Stuttgart Wilhelma Zoo and a cruise along the Neckar River. For spouses left behind during deployments, Det Echo offers pre-deployment briefs designed to share lessons learned and common issues, featuring presentations from Army Community Services, the American Red Cross, and the Judge Advocate General. A stress management class taught by a psychologist is also part of the program. In a significant self-help initiative, Det Echo and JTAGS Europe refurbished an unoccupied barracks, significantly improving living conditions. OS2 Kevin Cuevas noted the tremendous impact of these improvements, stating it serves as an example of the command's dedication. The issue also highlights the spirit of togetherness, exemplified by OS2(SW) William Peters IV's participation in the European Rodeo Cowboy Association, where 15 Sailors and family members came to support him, underscoring the "esprit de corps" fostered by Det Echo and JTAGS Europe.

Captain David Buckey Takes Command of Satellite Operations Center

Captain David L. Buckey assumed command of the Naval Satellite Operations Center in July. Originally from Sacramento, Calif., he was commissioned through Aviation Officers Candidate School in 1981. His career includes service with Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron 3, aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) as electronic warfare officer, and in the operations directorate of the United States Atlantic Command. He also served with the U.S. Strategic Command and as executive officer of Tactical Air Control Squadron 11 aboard USS Peleliu. Captain Buckey holds an undergraduate degree from California State University and a master's degree in national security affairs from the Naval Postgraduate School.

Change Detection Imagery

An article explains change detection imagery using two separate image dates (July 5 and Sept. 20, 2000) for Norfolk, Va. The process uses color guns to highlight differences between the two temporal periods, with purple indicating new features and green indicating features that no longer exist.

Learning To Inspire Students With Space

By Gary R. Wagner, this section details a two-week graduate-level education program sponsored by Naval Space Command and the Space Foundation, held in Dahlgren and Fredericksburg. The program, "Living in Space and Basic Rocketry," aimed to prepare teachers to incorporate space topics into their curriculum. Educators from six states participated, experiencing a tour of Naval Space Command's operations center, building and launching model rockets, and undergoing a neutral buoyancy training exercise. The second half of the program focused on "Advanced Technology and Robotics," covering artificial intelligence, space technology spinoffs, and navigation from space. Guest speakers at the graduation luncheons included NASA astronauts Jeffy Ashby and Kent Rominger.

Celebrating Navy's Role in Space Flight

This article commemorates the 40th anniversary of Navy pilot Alan Shepard's historic 15-minute flight in the Freedom 7 capsule on May 5, 1961, marking the first American human spaceflight. Rear Adm. Alan B. Shepard, a Naval Academy graduate, flew the mission. The Freedom 7 capsule is now a treasured exhibit at the academy's Armel-Leftwich Visitors Center, part of an exhibit titled "Grads in Space." Vice Adm. John R. Ryan, academy superintendent, praised Shepard as a pioneer who inspired many to join the space program, noting that the Naval Academy produces more astronauts than any other institution.

Freedom 7

This section provides further details about the Freedom 7 spacecraft, part of Project Mercury, established in 1958 to orbit and recover a manned satellite. The bell-shaped spacecraft consisted of two sections: a conical lower section for Shepard and his equipment, and a cylindrical upper section housing parachutes. After his suborbital flight, Shepard splashed down in the Atlantic Ocean and was retrieved by helicopter and taken to the USS Lake Champlain. The Freedom 7 spacecraft is part of "America's Smithsonian" traveling exhibition and is on display at the Naval Academy until 2003. Allan Needell, chairman of the Space History Division, expressed pride in making the spacecraft available for public display.

People of the Quarter Recognized

This section details the individuals recognized for exceptional performance during January-March and April-June 2001. For January-March, Petty Officer 1st Class Toby Brown was named Sailor of the Quarter, Petty Officer 3rd Class Sandra Spratling was Junior Sailor of the Quarter, Jonathan P. Boers was Senior Civilian of the Quarter, and Michael L. Patrick was Watchstander of the Quarter. For April-June, Petty Officer 1st Class Rachel A. Eisner was Sailor of the Quarter, Kathleen M. Peterson was Civilian of the Quarter, James F. Ridgway was Senior Civilian of the Quarter, and Donna J. Bowie was Civilian of the Quarter. The awards recognized their diverse contributions in areas such as information systems, satellite communications, operations support, and administrative duties.

Decorated Service & Special Recognition

This section lists various awards and recognitions bestowed upon Naval Space Command personnel. Awards include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various Good Conduct Awards. It also lists advancements and frockings, letters of commendation, and letters of appreciation. Additionally, it highlights the Meritorious Civilian Service Award presented to Ernest Mora for his contributions to improving the command's material condition. Fourteen members received outstanding or excellent scores on the spring 2001 Physical Readiness Test.

Civilian Length of Service Awards

This section recognizes long-serving civilian employees with awards for 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, and 10 years of service, featuring photographs of some of the recipients.

Calendar

The calendar section lists upcoming meetings, symposia, and courses & seminars relevant to the space and technology fields. Events include the Precise Time and Time Interval (PTTI) Systems and Applications Meeting, the Core Technologies for Space Systems Conference, and various courses on synthetic aperture radar, orbital mechanics, geomatics, GPS technology, and satellite communications.

Department of the Navy

Contact information for the Naval Space Command in Dahlgren, VA, is provided, along with an address service requested notice and official business designation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Naval Space Command personnel, emphasizing their dedication to both mission accomplishment and personal well-being. There is a strong focus on quality of life initiatives for families, professional development through education and training, and honoring long-term service. The magazine also highlights the historical significance of naval contributions to space exploration, particularly through the commemoration of Alan Shepard's pioneering flight. The editorial stance appears to be one of pride and support for the men and women serving in the Naval Space Command, showcasing their diverse roles and contributions to national security and scientific advancement.