Space Tracks - 2002 04

Magazine Overview

Title: SPACE TRACKS
Issue: 2
Volume: 2002
Date: April 2002
Publisher: Naval Space Command
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of SPACE TRACKS, a bulletin from the Naval Space Command, focuses on naval space issues and initiatives, aiming to increase awareness of space support for naval operations. The April 2002 edition features a variety of articles covering technological advancements, training programs, personnel updates, and historical perspectives.

Key Articles and Features

Satellite Design Program This section details how the Postgraduate School is preparing new spacecraft for launch, highlighting advancements in satellite technology for naval applications.

Naval SATCOM Course Naval Space Command is hosting a course on Naval Satellite Communications designed to enhance the expertise of Fleet and Fleet Marine Force personnel in space-based communication systems. The course covers SATCOM fundamentals, system capabilities, operational concepts, and future systems, emphasizing the increasing reliance on commercial SATCOM to augment DOD-owned systems due to bandwidth limitations.

Mobile Imagery Processing The article discusses the Mobile Processing, Exploitation and Dissemination (MOPED) system, a joint venture involving multiple military organizations. Tested at the Expeditionary Warfare Conference (EWC) Blitz '01, the MOPED system is designed to process and distribute hyper-spectral imagery in near real-time, aiding in the identification of concealed targets. The Navy's Remote Earth Sensing Information Center (RESIC) participated to evaluate its utility for future Navy and Marine Corps use.

The Space Advisor This piece introduces a concept for better utilizing officers with space backgrounds in Fleet operations, suggesting a more integrated approach to space expertise within naval command structures.

People of the Year This feature recognizes top military and civilian performers within the Naval Space Command, highlighting their contributions and achievements.

Remembering Space Pioneers This section pays tribute to two civilian employees who collectively account for over 70 years of experience in Navy space communications and surveillance. Daniel Martin, head of Naval Space Command's Satellite Communications Operations Branch, is remembered for his dedicated service. George Korb, former station manager of the Naval Space Surveillance System's transmitter field station, is also honored for his contributions.

Record Year In Space The cover story celebrates a "Record Year In Space," focusing on the Endeavour's mission to exchange crews at the space station, marking a significant year-end event in space exploration and operations.

GPS Innovations Incorporated In Missile Testing This article explores how test and training ranges are leveraging the Global Positioning System (GPS) for small missile testing. It discusses the Joint Advanced Missile Instrumentation (JAMI) program, which aims to standardize instrumentation and incorporate new GPS innovations. The testing involves high-dynamic environments and the use of GPS constellation simulators, with a focus on improving range safety and post-mission analysis.

Navy Collaboration Tool Highlighted In Interoperability Demonstration The Common Collaboration Environment (CCE) tool, a web-based application developed by NSWC Dahlgren, is praised for its role in enhancing interoperability. Tested during Joint Warrior Interoperability Demonstration 2001 (JWID '01), CCE provides a common operational picture and collaborative capabilities for warfighters.

Space Billets This section lists vacant officer billets at Naval Space Command and enlisted billets at Naval Space Command, Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division, providing details for personnel seeking assignments.

40 Years of Naval Space History This brief historical note commemorates John H. Glenn, Jr.'s achievement as the first American to orbit the Earth in 1962, and touches upon NASA's Project Mercury.

COMTHIRDFLT Hosts Navy SATCOM Course This article reports on Naval Space Command bringing its "Naval Satellite Communications" course to Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, Calif., hosted by Commander Third Fleet. The course covers satellite basics and specific SATCOM systems.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Space Tracks revolve around the increasing importance of space in naval operations, technological advancements in satellite communications and imagery processing, and the continuous need for training and skilled personnel. The publication emphasizes the Naval Space Command's role in providing critical support to the Fleet and Fleet Marine Force. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting awareness, highlighting achievements, and fostering a sense of pride and professionalism within the naval space community. There is a clear focus on the practical application of space technology for military advantage and operational efficiency.

Title: SPACE TRACKS
Issue: April 2002
Content Focus: Military space operations, satellite technology, and space exploration.

Naval Reservists Support Time Critical Strike

This article details the participation of Navy reservists from the Naval Space Reserve Program (NSRP) in a program-wide initiative to support the demonstration of the Navy's Time Critical Strike (TCS) capability. The goal of TCS is to reduce the targeting cycle time for engaging mobile or time-sensitive targets, such as ballistic missiles requiring rapid initialization. The program leverages technologies demonstrated in Fleet Battle Experiment India (FBE-I) and Limited Objective Experiments (LOE) 1-3. FBE-I focused on operationalizing network-centric warfare by building a C4ISR architecture. The prototype TCS equipment demonstrated included the Naval Fires Network, Global Command and Control System-Maritime (GCCS-M), and a Tomahawk precision targeting workstation. NSRP provided unique C4ISR expertise, operating prototype TCS systems aboard USS Coronado, USS John C. Stennis, and USS Bunker Hill, as well as ashore. Cmdr. Lyle C. Brown led the NSRP support, with Cmdr. Brian Hastings and Cmdr. Graham Overman also playing key roles. Fourteen reservists contributed 401 man-days to scenario planning, simulation scripting, and technology checkout. Future joint military operations are expected to benefit from the enhanced TCS systems and concepts developed during these experiments.

Wideband Gapfiller Satellite Enters Critical Design Review

The Wideband Gapfiller Satellite (WGS) program is undergoing its critical design review, with an initial launch scheduled for early 2004. WGS aims to significantly enhance communications capabilities for all branches of the U.S. armed forces, offering robust two-way military X-band and Ka-band communications and over ten times the capability of current DSCS satellites. The program is a joint-service effort funded by the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army, with Boeing Satellite Systems as the prime contractor. The Critical Design Review will focus on detailed designs to prepare for production. The WGS program is intended to help satisfy the U.S. military's demand for satellite communications resources until the Advanced Wideband System is built, starting in 2008.

Overview on Commercial SATCOM Operations Available

The Commercial Wideband Satellite Program (CWSP) is installed on over 25 U.S. Navy ships, providing over 50 Mbps globally to the Fleet. CWSP, combined with the Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS), offers 100 Mbps of global connectivity. SPAWAR PMW-176 manages the acquisition of space and shipboard segments, gateway leasing, and terrestrial connectivity, while also handling installation, testing, and repair of CWSP shipboard equipment. Naval Space Command provides operational oversight and technical advice. A two-day training session is offered to provide operational planners and personnel with an overview of the system, covering its history, components, architecture, troubleshooting, and future systems. This training has been delivered to various locations and has received positive reviews.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED: STS-108 Swaps International Space Station Crews

This article covers the Space Shuttle Endeavour Mission STS-108, which concluded the 2001 manned space missions and completed the first phase of the International Space Station (ISS) orbital assembly. The mission, launched on December 5, 2001, was the 12th shuttle flight to visit the ISS and the first since the installation of the Russian airlock. The crew, commanded by Navy Capt. Dom Gorie, delivered the Expedition Four crew to the station and returned the Expedition Three crew. During the mission, one spacewalk was conducted, and the Raffaello Multi-Purpose Logistics Module was used to unload supplies. The mission also honored victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks by carrying nearly 6,000 U.S. flags into orbit as part of the "Flags for Heroes and Families" campaign. The mission concluded with Endeavour's landing on December 17, 2001. The article also mentions the deployment of the Student-Tracked Atmospheric Research Satellite for Heuristic International Networking Experiment (STARSHINE) satellite by the Endeavour crew prior to their return.

Astronauts and Cosmonauts Named to Shuttle Flights in 2002

NASA has announced crew assignments for three missions scheduled to visit the International Space Station in the latter half of 2002: STS-112, STS-113, and STS-114. These missions will involve assembly work and crew exchanges, carrying a total of 23 astronauts and cosmonauts, including nine first-time flyers. STS-112, commanded by Navy Capt. Jeffrey S. Ashby, will deliver a truss segment. STS-113, commanded by Navy Capt. James D. Wetherbee, will also carry a truss segment and equipment. The article lists the commanders, pilots, and mission specialists for these flights, noting previous spaceflight experience and first-time flyers. It also mentions the Expedition Six crew commanded by Navy Capt. Kenneth D. Bowersox and the Expedition Five crew returning to Earth on STS-113.

U.S. CyberService Scholarships Offered

The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) is offering full-ride scholarships for information technology specialists to earn a master's degree in computer science specializing in cyber defense. Sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF), the program is open to civilians and military officers. Recipients agree to serve for two years in the U.S. Cyber Service Corps after graduation. The NPS Center for Information Assurance Studies and Research (CISR) is leading this initiative.

GPS, Other Military Systems Protected By FCC Decision

A February decision by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorizes the use of ultra-wideband (UWB) devices above 3.1 GHz while imposing strict technical limits below 3.1 GHz. This decision protects critical military systems, including the Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system, from frequency interference. The Department of Defense supports the FCC's approach, recognizing the balance between protecting national security systems and allowing commercial deployment of new technologies.

The Space Advisor

This article introduces the Space Advisor (SA) initiative, designed to address the military's increasing reliance on space systems. The SA officer, possessing both naval warfare and space systems subspecialties, advises commanders on space matters within the fleet. The program aims to identify deployed officers with space systems subspecialties to improve fleet space support processes. The SA concept is low-cost, with advisors potentially serving as a collateral duty. The Naval Postgraduate School's space systems curriculum provides the educational foundation for Space Advisors. The article highlights the adaptability of the Space Advisor concept and its proven success in improving space support processes in the Fleet.

Navy Experiment Uses Low Radio Frequencies For Lunar Surface Studies

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) conducted an experiment using a satellite-borne receiver to detect radio wave echoes from the Moon at a frequency of 8.075 MHz, the lowest radio frequency ever used for such experiments. The experiment utilized the High-Frequency Active Auroral Research Program (HAARP) facility to transmit radio waves to the Moon, with echoes detected by NASA's Wind spacecraft. The results suggest that low-frequency waves can penetrate the lunar surface, potentially carrying information about the Moon's subsurface composition. This could be advantageous for future lunar-orbiting satellite missions.

Naval Postgraduate School Prepares New Satellite For Launch

The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Small Satellite Design Program is developing NPSAT1, a new satellite designed to address limitations encountered with the previous PANSAT project. NPSAT1 aims for higher capability with a three-axis attitude control system and a shorter development period. The program focuses on developing highly capable nanosatellites and picosatellites. NPSAT1 will incorporate commercial standards, including a Linux operating system and ferroelectric RAM memory, to improve reliability and reduce development time. It will also feature a lithium-ion polymer rechargeable battery and support various experiment payloads, including a digital camera and MEMS devices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Space Tracks revolve around the integration of space systems into modern military operations, the advancements in satellite technology, and the ongoing space exploration and research efforts. The magazine consistently emphasizes the critical role of space-based assets in supporting naval and joint forces, highlighting technological developments, operational capabilities, and the training of personnel to effectively utilize these systems. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for continued investment in and development of space capabilities to maintain military superiority and advance scientific understanding.

Title: SPACE TRACKS
Issue: April 2002
Volume: 21
Publisher: Naval Space Command
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 0747-6007
Cover Headline: Navy Assumes Operational Control of Geosat Follow-On Spacecraft

This issue of SPACE TRACKS, dated April 2002, focuses on naval space operations, highlighting the Navy's assumption of control over the Geosat Follow-On (GFO) spacecraft and recognizing outstanding personnel within the Naval Space Command.

Navy Assumes Operational Control of Geosat Follow-On Spacecraft

The lead article details the official transfer of operational control of the Geosat Follow-On (GFO) satellite from the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) to the Naval Space Command on February 19th. Satellite control authority was delegated to the Naval Satellite Operations Center (NAVSOC). The GFO, built by Ball Aerospace & Technology and launched on February 10, 1998, is a vital meteorological and oceanographic sensor system. Its payload consists of a radar altimeter (RA) for measuring sea surface height and a water vapor radiometer (WVR) for calculating range corrections. The data collected by GFO is used to determine wave height, wind speed, and glacier ice extent, utilizing the same orbit as the original Geosat. The data is routed to the Naval Oceanographic Office and then processed at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi for use in oceanographic and weather models. Ships at sea can access this data via on-board AN/SMQ-11 Tactical Terminals.

NAVSOC has managed GFO since its launch, with telemetry, tracking, and commanding handled through its headquarters at Point Mugu, California, and remote sites. Although SPAWAR accepted the satellite from Ball Aerospace in November 2001, the handover to Naval Space Command was delayed until all operational issues were resolved. A significant challenge encountered shortly after launch was the failure of the satellite's GPS receivers, which were intended to provide positional information and time tagging. However, NAVSOC and Ball Aerospace collaborated to develop an alternative time-tagging method, and positional accuracy is now maintained using NASA's laser tracking facilities. This effort successfully salvaged a potentially failed mission.

Supporting Joint Task Force-Southwest Asia: SPACE LIAISON OFFICER REPORT

This section features a report from Lt. Cmdr. Dennis B. Ritchey, who completed a 120-day assignment in Saudi Arabia as the U.S. Space Command's Liaison Officer (LNO) to the Commander, Joint Task Force-Southwest Asia (JTF-SWA), during Operation Southern Watch. The LNO position is a rotational assignment filled by officers from various space commands. Ritchey's mission involved supporting the enforcement of UN Security Council resolutions for the southern 'no-fly' and 'no-drive' zones in Iraq, and later expanded to include supporting strike operations in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. He worked closely with the Space Weapons and Tactics Officer and reported to the director of the Combined Air Operations Center (CAOC). His duties encompassed coordinating space force enhancement, application, and control measures. This included ensuring end-to-end connectivity for theater missile warning voice and data networks, providing GPS accuracy assessments to planners, and working with weather and communications officers. Ritchey also advised the task force on friendly space force capabilities and adversary exploitation of space-derived intelligence. As the Theater Missile Defense Manager, his efforts were instrumental in expanding the theater ballistic missile defense architecture. Serving as the Space Officer within the CAOC, he played a crucial role in the successful execution of over 6,000 combat sorties over Afghanistan and southern Iraq by enhancing situational awareness. Naval Space Command was scheduled to provide another Space LNO in November 2002.

The Main Event

This section contains remarks by Rear Admiral J. P. Cryer, Commander NAVSPACECOM, from a change of command ceremony. He emphasizes the importance of connecting individual responsibilities to the needs of the American warfighter, stating, "We aren't here to merely develop requirements or be some marginally value-added organization. We are here to contribute to the pointed end of America's spear." He urges personnel to understand how their work directly supports warfighting operations, using the example of ensuring satellite communications for Air Force B-1 crews operating in Afghanistan.

NAVSPACECOM's People of the Year

This feature recognizes the top sailor and civilian employees of Naval Space Command for 2001. OS1 Troy P. Massey was named Sailor of the Year for the command's headquarters and Shore Sailor of the Year. His contributions in the Space Education and Training Division included qualifying 42 watch officers, a 56-percent increase in qualifications. He also became the first Second Class Petty Officer to qualify and stand the position of ASCC space warning officer and assistant crew commander. The article details his Navy career, including service on the USS Cape St. George and deployments.

Other individuals recognized include:

• Sea Sailor of the Year: OS1 William R. Runyan
• Junior Sailor of the Year: ET3 Sandra L. Spratling
• Sailor of the Year nominees: ET1(SW) Clifford E. Khederian, OS1 Michael A. Morin, OS1 William R. Runyan, IT1 Sharon Sims.
• Senior Civilian of the Year: Marilyn Overton
• Civilian of the Year: Robert B. Graham
• Operations Watchstander of the Year: Michael L. Patrick
• ADP Watchstander of the Year: Tammy L. Hudson
• Sailor of the Quarter (July-September 2001): Petty Officer 1st Class Jeremy Crow
• Junior Sailor of the Quarter: Seaman Ivan Locke
• Senior Civilian of the Quarter: Marilyn Overton
• Civilian of the Quarter: Betty Buck
• Watchstander of the Quarter: Robin Groves
• Sailor of the Quarter (October-December 2001): Petty Officer 1st Class Troy P. Massey
• Other Quarter Awardees: CTA3 Henry, Ron Farmer, Donnie Wise, Elmer Clair.

The article also lists numerous individuals recognized for specific achievements, including Defense Superior Service Medals, Joint Service Achievement Medals, Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medals, Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medals, Good Conduct Awards, Letters of Commendation, Letters of Appreciation, and Advancements. Civilian Length of Service Awards are also presented to Donald L. Gould (35 years), Ronald E. Farmer (25 years), and Kathy Jones (20 years).

Calendar

The Calendar section lists upcoming meetings, symposia, courses, and seminars related to space and technology. Events include the 2002 Space Control Conference, Global Air and Space 2002, and various courses sponsored by the Applied Technology Institute on topics such as Synthetic Aperture Radar, Digital Satellite Communication Systems, and GPS Technology.

Department of the Navy

This section provides the address for Naval Space Command in Dahlgren, Virginia, and notes that it has Presorted Standard Postage & Fees Paid with Permit No. 25.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the operational readiness and technological advancements within naval space systems, particularly the GFO satellite and its control. There is a strong emphasis on personnel recognition, highlighting the achievements of sailors and civilians within NAVSPACECOM through various 'People of the Year' and 'People of the Quarter' awards. The editorial stance, as articulated by Rear Admiral Cryer, underscores the critical importance of space operations in supporting the warfighter and maintaining national security. The magazine also serves as a platform for disseminating information on upcoming events and professional development opportunities within the space and defense community.