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Library > Fact Sheets > Satellite Control and Network Systems Division
SATELLITE CONTROL AND NETWORK SYSTEMS DIVISION
Posted 11/23/2010
Printable Fact Sheet
The Satellite Control and Network Systems Division mission is to modernize and sustain the Air Force's $1.2B Satellite Control Network Systems including two control nodes and nine worldwide Remote Tracking Stations to assure responsive, effective, satellite support to warfighting forces. The group provides highly reliable command and control to support 140-plus DoD, Civil and NRO satellite launch and satellite operations in surveillance, navigation, communications and weather.
The AFSCN "system of systems" is composed of three inter-related segments:
Command and Control
Range
Communications
Command and Control Segment
Satellite command and control is exercised from the operational control nodes located at Onizuka Air Station, Calif., and Schriever AFB, Colo. The AFSCN's Command and Control Segment enables execution of the three primary mission phases: planning, contact support and evaluation. CCS resources provide vehicle telemetry, tracking and commanding support from launch preparation to on-orbit operations. Vehicle ground software development, integration and evaluation begin prior to AFSCN compatibility testing and continue for the operational lifetime of the satellite program.
Range Segment
The range segment provides the space-ground link between the satellites and the AFSCN. The RTS provide real-time satellite tracking, command relay and telemetry reception. Deployable systems are used to provide additional on-orbit support as well as to verify correct subsystem operation at the factory. Satellite pre-launch checkout missions are performed at Vandenberg Tracking Station, Calif., and the Transportable Vehicle Checkout Facility-East, Cape Canaveral Air Station, Fla.
Communications Segment
The communications segment interconnects all AFSCN assets and provides external user interfaces. The communications segment is a robust network consisting of redundant communications paths, as well as connectivity between the control nodes. The redundant links are independently routed and continuously maintained in an operational state to ensure mission success. The communications segment sends satellite commanding data to the RTSs for subsequent uplink to the satellite, then returns downlinked telemetry and RTS equipment status data, to the control nodes for processing and analysis. The CS also provides interfaces between the AFSCN and satellite data users.
To understand and satisfy customer requirements, the AFSCN engineering staff works closely with Air Force Space Command, operators from other agencies and nations, and with satellite and launch control development organizations. Early involvement allows developers to reach informed decisions on the most effective use of AFSCN resources to accomplish the satellite's mission. Ongoing modifications to the network accommodate changing satellite requirements. Long-term capability needs are constantly factored into improvement and modernization plans.
(Current as of November 2010)
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SMC Public Affairs
483 N. Aviation Blvd.
Los Angeles AFB
El Segundo, CA 90245
Phone: (310) 653-1131
Media queries should be sent to: smcpa.media@us.af.mil. Public queries or event requests should be sent to: SMCPA.OUTREACH@us.af.mil
The base's mailing address is 483 North Aviation. To get directions to the base using a GPS navigation device or a web-based map service, such as Google Maps or MapQuest, use this address to find the main gate:
400 North Douglas St., El Segundo, CA, 90245 |
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