Ground Segment

• Platforms
• Payloads
• Subsystems
• Ground Segment
• Services

As part of its unique mission prime contracting experience, SSTL can offer customers a complete turnkey ground segment solution providing all the hardware and software necessary to operate, maintain, process and archive data from SSTL spacecraft. SSTL has significant experience in this area and has installed more than 20 systems in locations across the world.

Mission Control Centre and Ground Station
 
This is a complete system for TT&C and payload data retrieval from SSTL spacecraft utilising SSTL produced software for command and control. We have various groundstation options available:

• S and X-band systems
• Tracking antennas systems - 3m to 7.3m. Heated and radome options available
• SSTL netcentric communications racks allow ground stations to be located away from mission control centres
• SSTL minirack systems integrate with existing or customer furnished ground station infrastructures

Mission Planning System
This allows operators to schedule and task the spacecraft efficiently with a minimum number of staff. Operators and payload specialists are able to view satellite passes, providing observation opportunities for specific areas of interest.

Image Processing and Storage and Archiving
Software systems are supplied to support radiometric and geometric processing of medium resolution image data, including:

• Smart-i radiometric data processor
• Keystone suite of modules
• Smart-i catalogue

SSTL can provide hard disk based data archiving systems sized appropriately for the mission with additional high capacity tape library backup depending on the customers requirements.

Installation
SSTL can handle all aspects of installation from initial site surveys to establish a suitable environment for the ground segment, through facilities requirements, shipping, installation and final commissioning.

Training
Full training can be provided to the customer on the operational aspects and basic maintenance of the mission control centre, ground station and antenna system.

Mission Support
SSTL provides a 24/7 helpline with back-up operations from our own ground stations in the UK.

Maintenance
SSTL can provide maintenance support for the ground segment throughout the mission lifetime, including yearly service visits, email and telephone helplines and service and repair by SSTL qualified engineers.