MAUI ― The U.S. Space Force is set to prototype new software aimed at automating the integration of commercial and military space tracking data. This initiative is designed to enhance the timeliness and accuracy of information regarding space objects, particularly those operated by potential adversaries. Col. Barry Croker, head of the service’s Mission Delta 2, announced that the prototype “software environment” is expected to launch later this fall, with a focus on creating a “minimum viable product” that can be operational quickly.
Objectives of the New Software
Mission Delta 2 is tasked with organizing, training, and equipping Guardians for space domain awareness operations. This includes managing the Space Surveillance Network, which utilizes telescopes and radars globally to gather data on space objects. Croker emphasized that the primary goal is to improve support for space control operations. He noted that the current software and processes prioritize high accuracy, which can delay timely responses. The new prototype aims to provide quicker, albeit potentially lower fidelity, observations and analyses, leveraging data from commercial firms.
Integration of Commercial Data
Currently, the Space Force acquires commercial space tracking information through the Joint Commercial Operations cell, storing it in the cloud-based Unified Data Library. However, this data is not directly integrated into operational space domain awareness systems, operating instead on a parallel system. Gen. Stephen Whiting, commander of SPACECOM, highlighted that existing capabilities are insufficient for precise targeting of adversary satellites. He stated that better integration of commercial data could significantly enhance operational effectiveness.
Challenges and Considerations
While the goal is to fuse data from commercial sources, Croker explained the importance of maintaining the integrity of military sensor data. The separate software environment is intended to prevent the dilution of high-accuracy tracking missions by integrating commercial data that may not meet the same standards. This approach aims to ensure that military operations remain unaffected while still benefiting from the timeliness of commercial data.
As the Space Force moves forward with this initiative, the focus will remain on developing a system that can provide timely insights into space activities, such as new debris clouds or recently launched satellites. The integration of commercial tracking data is seen as a critical step in enhancing the overall capabilities of the Space Force in monitoring and responding to developments in space.
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