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Transformational Satellite Communications System (TSAT)
By Editor | March 20, 2008
The Transformational Satellite Communications System (TSAT) programme is a programme for the United States Department of Defence (DOD) sponsored by the American Air Force for a high capacity, secure global communications network which can serve the Department of Defence, the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC) and NASA.
The Transformational Satellite Communications System provides orbit to ground laser communications and incorporates radio frequency (RF) (or conventional radio based crosslink which completes the AEHF satellite constellation. This constellation is known as the Advanced Polar System (APS) which supports users in the Polar Regions. The APS can withstand nuclear attacks and provide uninterrupted service. These satellites insert jam resistant laser crosslinks into the TSAT) so as to achieve a high data transfer rate. The Transformational Satellite Communications System enables net centric warfare that helps defence and intelligence personnel by providing them detailed, comprehensive information.
The Transformational Satellite Communications System has five satellites in its system (which is referred to as a satellite constellation). A sixth satellite is supposed to be included within the satellite constellation later. The Transformational Satellite Communications System also includes satellite operations centers (TSOC) for on orbit control; Mission Operations Systems (TMOS) for providing network management and ground gateways.
The Transformational Satellite Communications System provides the Department of Defence with high data rate Military Satellite Communications (MILSATCOM) and Internet services as mentioned in the Transformational Communications Architecture (TCA). It is the spaceborne element of the Global Information Grid (GIG) and it extends the GIG to users who do not have terrestrial connections. The Transformational Satellite Communications System’s internet protocol routing connects many users through networks instead of through limited point to point connections. TSAT also enables high data rate connections to Space and Airborne Surveillance, Intelligence and Reconnaissance (AISR, SISR) platforms.
The space segment makes use of technological advancements that have undergone independent testing of integrated subsystem brass boards to enhance satellite communication capabilities. The technologies consist of Internet protocol based packet switching, single and multi access laser communications (which includes wide view technology), battle command-on-the-move antennas, bulk and packet encryption/decryption, protected bandwidth efficient modulation and dynamic bandwidth and resource allocation techniques.
The TSAT properties of the Department of Defence ring support radio frequency data rates up to 45 Megabits per second and laser communication user data rates of 10 to 100 Gigabits per second. An objective of the Department of Defence ring is providing simultaneous, multiple user access to laser communications. This characteristic creates an almost jam proof environment. The TSAT also has a large total bandwidth capacity and a loaded capacity of about 2 Gigabits per second of radio frequency per vehicle compared to 250 Megabits per second for AEHF.
The Department of Defence is establishing the next generation of warfighting communications required for global net centric operations. The main programmes that are part of this new generation of programmes include the TSAT, the Defense Information Systems Network – Next Generation (DISN-NG) and the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS). These programmes will enhance the DoD’s ability to share information (even real time) and improve control and command.
Topics: Military Satellite Communications |
May 6th, 2008 at 5:22 pm
can the system work under,
water
rain
sand
snow