Space Data Center Launches Initial Operations

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., July 27 /PRNewswire/ -- The Space Data Association (SDA) today launched initial operations of the Space Data Center, an automated space situational awareness system expected to improve the safety and efficiency of satellite operations through the sharing of operator-owned orbital data. Developing and operating the system for the SDA is commercial software provider Analytical Graphics, Inc. (AGI) of Exton, Pa.

The Space Data Center's initial operating capabilities (IOC) include conjunction assessment for 126 satellites in geostationary orbit owned by Inmarsat, Intelsat and SES, the founding members of the SDA. When fully operational early next year, the service will also support radio frequency interference (RFI) mitigation, and membership is expected to include commercial and government operators with satellites in all Earth orbits.

Built on AGI's commercial software, the Space Data Center provides SDA members Web-based access to operational capabilities through a service-oriented architecture (SOA). The system will automatically ingest and process operator-supplied orbital data including planned maneuvers, perform conjunction assessments, and generate automated warning alerts. It will also support avoidance maneuver planning and facilitate greater data sharing.

"The IOC represents a significant milestone in the SDA's development," says Stewart Sanders, SDA Chairman and Director. "We are working to quickly expand the SDA's satellite operator membership and obtain greater access to high-accuracy data. Satellite operators interested in joining the SDA can contact us at [email protected] for further information. We will also proactively contact operators to solicit interest. The flexibility of AGI's software will allow this rapid growth, assuring safer satellite operations in a very short time frame."

About SDA

The Space Data Association Ltd. is a not-for-profit international organization formed in 2009 dedicated to safe and responsible satellite operations, including the prevention of collisions in space and improving satellite communications. Established in the Isle of Man initially by Inmarsat, Intelsat and SES, it is open to all satellite operators and other participants.

About AGI

Analytical Graphics, Inc. (AGI) delivers software applications and development tools for timely and cost-effective development and deployment of space, defense and intelligence missions. AGI products are used for modeling, engineering and operations in the areas of space, cyberspace, aircraft, missile defense, C4ISR and electronic systems. For more information, visit www.agi.com.

SOURCE Space Data Association Ltd.