[SatNews] When operator-owned orbital data is shared, situational awareness improves.

To that end, the Space Data Association (SDA) has launched initial operations of the automated Space Data Center, which is expected to improve the safety and efficiency of satellite operations. Developing and operating the system for the SDA is commercial software provider Analytical Graphics, Inc. (AGI) of Exton, Pa. The Space Data Center’s initial operating capabilities (IOC) include conjunction assessment for 126 satellites in geostationary orbit owned by Inmarsat, Intelsat and SES, the founding members of the SDA.

When fully operational early next year, the service will also support radio frequency interference (RFI) mitigation, and membership is expected to include commercial and government operators with satellites in all Earth orbits. Built on AGI’s commercial software, the Space Data Center provides SDA members web-based access to operational capabilities through a service-oriented architecture (SOA). The system will automatically ingest and process operator-supplied orbital data including planned maneuvers, perform conjunction assessments, and generate automated warning alerts. It will also support avoidance maneuver planning and facilitate greater data sharing. Satellite operators interested in joining the SDA can contact the organization at [email protected] for further information.