GSOC - German Space Operations Center
The German Space Operations Center (GSOC) consists of four major divisions which are descriped in detail below.
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Mission Operations
The Mission Operations division fulfills the project related operational tasks associated with manned and unmanned space missions. The main tasks include the planning and preparation of projects, the definition of ground system requirements, mission planning, the generation of operation procedures as well as tests, trainings and simulations. The actual mission comprises Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP) of 2-4 weeks duration and a subsequent Commissioning & Routine Phase. Professional preparation is required for a safe LEOP and the transition into the Routine Phase. The Mission Operations division also represents DLR and GSOC externally, dealing directly with the customers while supported by other divisions. Mission operations are prepared for four main types of space missions:
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Scientific Satellite Missions
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Commercial Satellite Missions
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Security Satellite Missions
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Human Spaceflight Missions (ISS)
Mission Operations also plays a major role in the preparation and execution of satellite operations. Safety and success of space flight missions is based on a reliable, cost-efficient and flexible Mission Operations System. The concept of Multi-Mission Operations at GSOC permits efficient operation by harmonizing the tasks in the different projects. Therefore capacity fluctuations are minimized and superfluous developments can be avoided.
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Communication and Ground Systems
Spacecraft operations require the transmission and receiption of data signals from and to the spacecraft. This service is provided by an operational ground data transfer system which is part of the division "Communications and Ground Stations". The main tasks of the area data transfer include:
- Operation of the Ground Segment including:
- Antenna Facilities
- Communication Systems
- Control Center Systems
Additional tasks and projects include upgrading, maintenance, configuration and operation of the antennas. Planning and implementation of communication interfaces to external ground stations and planning, implementation and operation of a global network for the transmission of video/audio signals and miscellaneous data.
Space Flight Technology
The Space Flight Technology division is committed to research in the areas of navigation, automation, communication and provides support services in the areas of flight dynamics as well as web technology. In addition, this division operates the European Rendevouz- and Docking Simulator EPOS.
Research
The R&D efforts of the Space Flight Technology division have been merged in the R&D program "Guided Autonomy". One objective is to reduce the routine workload for the operators by developing and employing innovative procedures and focusing on key functions. Another goal is to increase the performance and reliability in space missions and to find new applications for such missions. The main areas covered are
- Autonomous Navigation
- Communication
- Intelligent Ground Systems
The space and ground segment receive equal attention. A common interest in all planned and current projects is a swift demonstration in pilot projects and application in operational missions.
Galileo Operations
The department "Galileo Operations" will establish and operate one of the two control centres for 20 years of Galileo routine operations at Oberpfaffenhofen. A control centre with suitable infrastructure will be provided to accomodate the required ground segment system components.
Initially, Galileo Test Operations (GSTB-V2) are prepared and executed jointly with Italy. The necessary control room facilities are intended to be operational at GSOC at the beginning of 2006.
In addition the division is planning to establish and operate the control centre for the German test and development environment GATE, beginning by the end of 2006.