Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT) has announced the launch of the company’s fully automated launch and deorbit service on the KSATlite Network. The development of this service was made possible by the close cooperation between KSAT and Rocket Laba global leader in launch services and space systems.

The new service is an extension of the existing KSATlite Portfolio to provide seamless, automated support for launch vehicles and deorbit operations. Designed to meet the growing needs of the space industry, this new service enables support for complex missions with unique antenna tracking capabilities and advanced monitoring and control capabilities.

Rocket Labs electron The launch vehicle is one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world and has successfully launched over 190 satellites for government and commercial customers for science and exploration missions, Earth observation, weather monitoring and national security.

Rocket Lab expands its launch capabilities and develops a new reusable medium-range rocket neutron to launch satellite constellations, national security and defense missions, and interplanetary missions from mid-2025.

Rocket Lab also designs, builds, launches, and operates spacecraft for various government and commercial satellite operators, enables lunar missions for NASA, and performs space operations, deorbit operations, and spacecraft orbit reentry operations for commercial customers such as Varda Space Industries.

By working together, both companies were able to leverage their expertise to create a more efficient and reliable service. This joint development effort not only benefits KSAT and Rocket Lab, but also provides significant benefits to launch and satellite operators by providing improved service quality and reduced operating costs.

Main features and benefits

• automation: The service provides end-to-end automation from pre-launch testing to the actual launch event, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing the risk of human error.
• New features: Unique antenna tracking capabilities to support complex mission designs and advanced monitoring and control capabilities
• Scalability: The scalable infrastructure of the KSATlite network ensures that the service can cover a wide range of missions at any location.
• Global coverage: With an extensive network of strategic ground stations around the globe, KSATlite provides unparalleled coverage and connectivity for launch vehicles and satellite operators.
• reliability: The automated system is based on KSAT’s proven technology and ensures high reliability and availability for critical operations
• Cost efficiency: By automating key processes, the service reduces operating costs and provides a cost-effective solution for launch companies and satellite operators.
• standardization: The use of industry standards including IRIG-106 ensures compatibility for mission operations

“Our fully automated launch and deorbit service represents a major advance in ground station technology,” said Arthur Kvalheim Merlin, Director of Ground Network Products. “By integrating this capability into our KSATlite network, we are setting a new standard for efficiency and reliability in space operations. This innovation will not only streamline the process for our customers, but will also significantly reduce operational risks and costs.” KSAT is targeting the service to be operational in 2025, with one of its first customers being Rocket Lab with its brand new Neutron rocket..”

“Since partnering with KSAT in 2019, KSATlite has been the primary ground station network supporting our Electron launch vehicle and LEO satellites. We have worked closely with KSAT to develop new capabilities that are unique in the Ground Segment-as-a-Service industry. These capabilities have enabled us to reliably support a high Electron launch frequency and missions with complex mission designs, including launching a spacecraft into lunar orbit and reentering a manufacturing probe into the Earth’s atmosphere.,” said Bill Lance, Global Director of RF Engineering. “This collaboration sets a new standard in the industry. By leveraging a standardized, global ground station network that meets the needs of both our launch and space divisions, we can focus on our strategic programs and improve the overall service we provide to our customers..”