Archives for May 2025

U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC) recently awarded the Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution (FORGE) Enterprise Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) Solution (EOS) contract to SciTec, Inc.—the $259 million award was made through a competitive Other Transaction Authority (OTA) prototype agreement leveraging the SSC Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC).

FORGE provides the cornerstone of a resilient OPIR ground architecture supporting legacy Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) and Next-Gen OPIR satellite payloads such as Next-Gen OPIR GEO (NGG), Polar (NGP), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations. It will also integrate capabilities from both FORGE and non-FORGE efforts, ensuring interoperability and mission flexibility across the missile warning and tracking enterprise. EOS builds upon the existing FORGE framework, which provides foundational hardware and software infrastructure, on which OPIR mission applications are built upon.

The EOS contract is the follow-on contract vehicle to continue the development and delivery of the FORGE framework, serving as the foundation for developing, managing, and hosting mission data processing applications. This cyber-resilient, modular, and scalable framework enables the ingestion of large volumes of data, efficient upgrades, and real-time wideband processing.

A framework is a software platform that provides a standard way to build, deploy, and interface with applications. The FORGE framework’s data-processing capability is crucial for orchestrating real-time data processing demands of Next-Gen OPIR satellites and future sensors to meet tomorrow’s threats.

The FORGE framework was initially developed under the SSC Mission Data Processing Application Framework (MDPAF) contract from 2020 to 2025. The EOS prototype represents the next phase for the FORGE ground system, enabling SSC to continue development and integration with emerging sensor technologies, adopting hybrid-cloud architectures, addressing technical debt, and building upon existing investments to meet growing threat timelines and mission needs.  

This approach also reinforces FORGE’s acquisition strategy built on a foundation of modular and open systems architectures. Government ownership of the technical baseline and modular elements of the FORGE architecture provide the flexibility needed to access a continuous supply and a broad range of industry vendors.  It also spurs competition resulting in best value for tax payers and greater innovations of critical capabilities for the nation.  

In April of 2024, the FORGE program achieved a key milestone with the first operational delivery of the FORGE framework to the OPIR Battlespace Awareness Center (OBAC) at Buckley Space Force Base, Colorado., enhancing operational resilience and application performance for the 11th Space Warning Squadron, Space Operations Command.  This event also successfully demonstrated the ability to deliver iterative, regular and continuous warfighting capabilities into operations. The next delivery of FORGE capabilities to operators is scheduled for this summer.

EOS expands the aperture for industry innovation and will take the FORGE framework to the next level,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Groller, SSC FORGE materiel leader.  “By delivering a scalable, cyber-secure, and modular ground processing capability designed to meet the demands of an evolving OPIR enterprise, we ensure our warfighters have faster, more reliable access to critical missile warning and tracking data for modern warfare.”       

Space Systems Command is the U.S. Space Force field command responsible for acquiring, developing, and delivering resilient capabilities to protect our nation’s strategic advantage in, from, and to space. SSC manages a $15.6 billion space acquisition budget for the Department of Defense and works in partnership with joint forces, industry, government agencies, academic and allied organizations to outpace emerging threats. Our actions today are making the world a better space for tomorrow.

Engage Communication last month announced a breakthrough in optimizing Starlink‘s satellite network for real-time data transmission.

By leveraging Redundant Delayed Packets, Engage Communication enhances the reliability and continuity of mission-critical streaming applications, ensuring seamless communication even in challenging network conditions.

As Starlink continues to expand satellite-based connectivity, its real-time streaming applications—such as voice, video, and telemetry—face challenges such as latency spikes, packet loss, and brief outages due to satellite handoffs.

Engage Communication has introduced Redundant Delayed Packets, a solution that bolsters data integrity and minimizes disruptions caused by Starlink’s dynamic network environment.

Engage Communication’s IP-Tube product line, when combined with Redundant Delayed Packets, ensures seamless and reliable data transmission over Starlink for real-time applications. The IP-Tube efficiently converts legacy TDM, serial, and analog interfaces into IP packets, enabling mission-critical communications to leverage Starlink’s global satellite network.

By incorporating Redundant Delayed Packets, the IP-Tube mitigates the effects of Starlink’s inherent latency variations and packet loss, ensuring smooth voice, video, and telemetry transmissions. This solution is ideal for public safety, defense, and industrial applications, where uninterrupted connectivity is essential despite the dynamic nature of satellite networking.

Starlink has revolutionized connectivity in remote and underserved areas, but real-time data streaming demands uninterrupted and resilient transmission,” said Mark Doyle, CEO and Founder of Engage Communication. “With our technology, users can experience improved reliability and quality of service, even in the face of fluctuating network conditions.”

Key Benefits of Redundant Delayed Packets in Starlink Networks…

Enhanced Reliability – Mitigates data loss by providing backup packets that compensate for missing or delayed transmissions.

Reduced Latency Spikes – Smooths out performance inconsistencies caused by satellite transitions.

Seamless Satellite Handoffs – Ensures continuous data flow, preventing interruptions in live streaming applications.

Improved Quality of Service (QoS) – Critical for VoIP, video conferencing, and telemetry-based communications.

Fault Tolerance – Adds an extra layer of protection against Starlink’s dynamic routing and congestion issues.

Empowering Mission-Critical Applications Engage Communication’s Redundant Delayed Packet technology is ideal for industries that rely on real-time streaming, including: Public Safety & Emergency Communications – Maintaining uninterrupted communication for first responders.

Defense & Government – Enhancing the reliability of secure data transmission in remote locations.

Telemedicine & Remote Monitoring – Ensuring stable video and telemetry for critical healthcare applications.

Industrial IoT & Smart Infrastructure – Supporting continuous data flow for automation and control systems.

Future-Proofing Satellite-Based Networking

Engage Communication remains committed to advancing connectivity solutions that maximize the potential of satellite networks such as Starlink. By addressing latency, packet loss, and reliability concerns, Engage’s latest innovation ensures organizations can depend on Starlink for high-quality real-time communications.

About Engage Communication
Engage Communication is a trusted provider of secure and reliable networking solutions, specializing in telecommunications, cybersecurity, and mission-critical data transmission. With a legacy of innovation, Engage continues to bridge the gap between traditional and modern network technologies, empowering organizations with robust connectivity solutions.

Starlink Group 6-93 originally planned for Saturday, May 3, is now targeting Tuesday, May 6 for a Falcon 9 launch of 28 Starlink smallsats to low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. These satellites will add to SpaceX’s Starlink smallsat constellation. Liftoff is targeted for 8:22 p.m. ET, with backup opportunities available until 12:22 a.m. ET on Wednesday, May 7. If needed, additional opportunities are also available on Wednesday, May 7 starting at 7:30 p.m. ET.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about five minutes prior to liftoff, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

This is the seventh flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched Crew-9, RRT-1, Firefly Blue Ghost Mission 1, Fram2 and two Starlink missions. Following stage separation, the first stage will land on the Just Read the Instructions droneship, which will be stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

The Falcon 9 first stage will attempt to land on one of two East Coast ASDS after its flight. The mission costs $52 million.

In collaboration with NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate, DARPA recently released the Lunar Assay via Small Satellite Orbiter (LASSO) solicitation.

The LASSO program aims to develop technologies to support significantly increasing the U.S.’ ability to conduct operations in support of space situational awareness (SSA) by developing autonomous satellite navigation in stressing orbital conditions and increasing satellite maneuverability through continuous dynamic repositioning based on changing conditions, with the added benefit of creating a proven reserve model for resources relevant to ISRU (In-Situ Resource Utilization) on Earth’s Moon.

LASSO supposes that high resolution measurements of resources across the entire lunar surface is the most compelling commercial application to drive optimized performance in propulsion system and GNC design.

The program seeks performers to design, test, build, and deliver a spacecraft capable of determining all areas on the Moon that contain greater than 5% water concentration with a resolution of no larger than four-square kilometers.

LASSO is focused on developing technologies for use in lunar orbit and does not intend to use any equipment on the lunar surface.

To download all of the solicitation attachments and links,
access this direct SAM.Gov infolink…

The launch of SpaceX’s Starlink Group 15-3 has been moved out several times most recently appearing as through mid-day Saturday and then Sunday would be the day at Vandenberg. However, the mission disappeared from the list of upcoming SpaceX launches and federal notices that warn pilots of upcoming launch plans. Additionaly, they have been removed without a mention of a new targeted attempt. SpaceX did not explain the reason for the delay.

Lompoc Valley residents on Friday, witnessed SpaceX conducting a static fire test that counts down and fires the engines while the rocket remains standing at Space Launch Complex-4.

Even though the test to check various systems and detect any possible problems seemingly went well causing SpaceX to confirm plans to attempt to launch the rocket this weekend, obviously that didn’t happen.

The most current information now indicates Friday, May 9th, at 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM PDT.

The forecast next Friday calls for a temperature of 57°F, broken clouds, 82% cloud cover and a wind speed of 14mph.

SpaceX weather delays Starlink launch of Group 15-3 smallsats

It’s no surprise that the potential weather issues on May 3, with 100% cloud cover was the reason that the Starlink Group 15-3 of 29 smallsats launch was scrubbed and is tentatively rescheduled for Sunday, May 4 from Vandenberg Space Force Base. Liftoff is targeted for 4:53 a.m. ET, with backup opportunities available until 8:48 a.m. ET. If needed, additional opportunities are also available on Monday, May 5 starting at 4:22 a.m. ET.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about five minutes prior to liftoff, which you can watch here and on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

This is the 20th flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched Crew-6, SES O3b mPOWER-B, USSF-124, Bluebird 1-5, and 15 Starlink missions. Following stage separation, the first stage will land on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship, which will be stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

The weather forecast for Vandenberg Space Force Base includes overcast clouds, 100% cloud cover, and 21 mph winds. This launch was expected to deploy 26 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit, and will further add to the Starlink smallsat constellation.

The Falcon 9 first stage will attempt to land on ASDS OCISLY in the Pacific Ocean after its flight. The mission costs $52 million.

SpaceX’s Saturday launch of Starlink’s Group 15-3 smallsats may have weather issues

On Saturday, May 3, Falcon 9 will launch 26 smallsats of Starlink Group 15-3 into low Earth orbit at 11:27 AM – 3:55 PM PDT from Vandenberg for the Starlink smallsat constellation.

The forecast calls for a temperature of 56°F, overcast clouds, 100% cloud cover and a wind speed of 21mph.

The Falcon 9 first stage will attempt to land on ASDS OCISLY in the Pacific Ocean after its flight. The mission costs $52 million.

Terran Orbital Corporation has been selected by the U.S. Space Force as one of 12 companies awarded a position on the Space Test Experiments Platform (STEP) 2.0 contract.

This 10-year, $237 million, Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, administered by Space Systems Command, supports the Department of Defense’s broader Space Test Program (STP) to accelerate the deployment and validation of advanced space-based technologies.

As part of STEP 2.0, Terran Orbital will compete for task orders to develop and deliver modular small satellite buses capable of hosting a wide range of experimental payloads, from new sensors to cutting-edge communications and navigation systems. These spacecraft, typically the size of a microwave or small refrigerator, serve as adaptable platforms to carry out critical technology demonstrations that will inform future military space architectures.

The STEP 2.0 contract is designed to streamline the path from concept to orbit for Department of Defense experiments by leveraging commercial space industry capabilities. The initiative also aims to reduce historic delays associated with aligning payload availability and launch opportunities by bundling multiple experiments onto standardized spacecraft and enabling frequent commercial rideshare launches.

Terran Orbital’s proven manufacturing scalability, rapid integration capabilities, and mission flexibility make it uniquely positioned to support this critical program and contribute to the modernization of U.S. military space operations.

Other companies selected for the contract include Lockheed Martin, General Atomics, Blue Canyon Technologies, Loft Orbital, Spire Global, York Space Systems, and several emerging space technology providers.

Terran Orbital is proud to be selected for the STEP 2.0 initiative and to continue our long-standing partnership with the U.S. Space Force,” said Peter Kraus, President and Chief Executive Officer of Terran Orbital. “This award underscores our commitment to advancing national security through innovative, flight-proven small satellite solutions.”

About Terran Orbital
Terran Orbital, a Lockheed Martin Company, is a leading manufacturer of satellite solutions. It provides end-to-end mission services for commercial and government customers. Terran Orbital specializes in designing, building, and operating advanced satellite systems, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to support national security, scientific research, and commercial applications.

Aerospacelab, in partnership with Mitsui Bussan Aerospace (MBA), proudly announces its selection by the Japan Exploration Agency (JAXA) to supply the platform that will host JAXA’s SAMRAI payload as part of a demonstration mission—this contract represents an important step in showcasing innovative international satellite solutions. 

This first partnership with both MBA and JAXA highlights Aerospacelab’s expansion into new markets and underscores its emergence as a trusted global partner in high-performance, cost-effective satellite platforms, further strengthening its position in the growing Japanese space market. This commercial agreement was made possible through the strategic support of Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, whose deep market knowledge and facilitation were key to establishing this partnership. 

This partnership with Mitsui Bussan Aerospace and JAXA represents a major milestone for us”, said Benoît Deper, CEO of Aerospacelab. “Being selected and recognized as a trusted partner by JAXA is a tremendous honor and a clear endorsement of our technology, innovation, and commitment to delivering competitive, high-performance spacecraft. We’re especially grateful to Mitsui Bussan Aerospace for their invaluable support in enabling this mission. We are beyond excited to embark on this journey.”

Morihiro Aoki, CEO of Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, said, “We are honored to provide our service with Aerospacelab to JAXA playing a great role in the space development here in Japan. By combining our expertise with innovative technology and experience by Aerospacelab, we will dedicate all our strength to achieve success in this groundbreaking project.” 

Further details regarding this contract between Aerospacelab, MBA and JAXA and its broader scope will be disclosed in the coming months as additional aspects are unveiled. This initial announcement serves as the foundation for what promises to be a pioneering endeavor in the field of space technology. 

Aerospacelab, founded in 2018, develops, manufactures, and operates cutting-edge Earth Observation and Telecommunications satellites at scale. In 2024, the successful acquisition of AMOS marked an important milestone, further enhancing optical capabilities and introducing high-end payloads to Aerospacelab’s growing portfolio, while strengthening its global position.   

With operations strategically positioned, including its Headquarters in Belgium and a factory in the U.S. (California), Aerospacelab is able to deliver innovative solutions to an expanding customer base worldwide. In 2026, Aerospacelab is set to unveil The Megafactory, Europe’s upcoming largest satellite manufacturing facilities, demonstrating its ambitious vision to shape the future of the aerospace industry.