The Space Data Association (SDA) and Analytical Graphics Inc. (AGI) have entered into a multi-year agreement to launch an updated Space Data Center (SDC) space traffic management service, according to an AGI statement.
The space traffic management service will be powered by AGI’s Commercial Space Operations Center (ComSpOC). SDC 2.0, which will be available to all members of SDA, has a highly accurate, independently generated catalog of space objects which will grow to include objects larger than 20 centimeters in and transversing the geostationary earth orbit (GEO) arc. AGI spokeswoman Stephanie Eftimiades said Tuesday SDC 1.0 tracks all objects one meter and larger.
Eftimiades said SDC 2.0 will fuse observations from a diverse range of sensors and sensor phenomenologies with advanced orbit determination and maneuver processing in tracking objects in the GEO arc.
The service also features functionality to combat radio frequency interference, including the construction of geolocation scenarios and a carrier ID database. Eftimiades aspects of the new service will be phased in over time, but SDA intends to make the new service available as soon as possible after members have had a chance to learn more and sign on to the service.
When asked the subscription price, Eftimiades said the overall cost will be higher than the current SDC 1.0 arrangement, commensurate with the significantly greater capabilities.
Eftimiades said SDC 1.0 functions supporting low earth orbit (LEO) operators will continue as part of the SDC 2.0 rollout. She said SDC 2.0 service upgrades are mainly focused on GEO and low-inclination medium earth orbit (MEO) satellites. Solutions for LEO operators will be the next step, she said.
Eftimiades said the multi-year agreement includes options for each party to opt out of the agreement.