The Space Data Association (SDA) has chosen GMV, a Spanish technology provider, to upgrade and operate its global space traffic coordination platform, effective early next year. This announcement was made on September 16, 2023, highlighting SDA’s commitment to enhancing space safety amid an increasingly congested orbital environment.
The platform, known as the Space Safety Portal (SSP), plays a pivotal role in ingesting flight dynamics information from SDA members and public sources. It provides essential conjunction assessment and warning services to mitigate collision risks among satellites. The SSP was established shortly after SDA’s founding in 2009 and is currently managed by ComSpOC, a U.S.-based space situational awareness specialist. GMV was selected following a competitive bidding process aimed at developing a next-generation system that can address the growing challenges of space traffic.
SDA chairman Joe Chan emphasized the urgency of this upgrade, particularly as the U.S. Traffic Coordination System for Space (TraCSS) faces budget cuts. “Avoiding collisions which can cause long-lived, hazardous space debris is more important than ever given the increased utilization of space,” Chan stated via email. He underscored the necessity of publicly funded space traffic coordination systems, noting that none are currently fully operational.
Addressing Space Traffic Challenges
The SDA positions itself as a low-entry point for satellite operators to engage in space situational awareness (SSA). Membership requires operators to share vital data, including advanced maneuver information, to ensure the safety of orbital operations. “It can be compared to the traffic code of conduct,” Chan explained. “It is only effective if all vehicles on the road follow the same rules. Similarly, just because the space orbital environment is getting crowded, it can still be safe if all operators follow and observe the same best practices.”
Currently, more than 700 satellites contribute data to the SSP, which encompasses approximately half of all active spacecraft in geostationary orbit. This extensive data-sharing framework is essential for navigating the complexities of space traffic management.
The Advantages of a Non-Profit Structure
In a landscape where numerous commercial space traffic management platforms are emerging, Chan highlighted the unique benefits of the SDA’s operator-founded, non-profit structure. This model not only safeguards sensitive data but also facilitates collaboration among various SSA providers.
“As a fully independent, non-commercial entity and as a permanent observer within the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), SDA can act as the facilitator and fuse together information to achieve comprehensive global space traffic coordination,” he stated. Chan stressed that collaboration is vital for success, urging the industry to share data to avoid fragmentation across different SSA systems.
The upcoming upgrade to the SSP is set to introduce several new capabilities aimed at enhancing its functionality and effectiveness. As space traffic continues to increase, the urgency for advanced coordination systems becomes even clearer. The SDA’s commitment to innovation and safety reflects the growing recognition of the need for effective management of the space environment.
