Space Engineering and Operations

Satellite Engineering

Applying the extensive know-how we have accumulated as the leading European satellite operator, we can undertake or support all aspects of satellite engineering and operations, including but not limited to:

Training for satellite engineers and controllers
Satellite commanding procedures validation and enhancement
Contingency training and readiness
Integration of in-orbit procedures and tools into operational schemes
Payload management methodologies
Design and organisation of satellite control centres
External audit of satellite operations concepts
Long-term follow-up of spacecraft health
In-orbit support services
Backup satellite control services out of our Betzdorf facilities

Flight Dynamics

Co-located Satellites ASTRA’s practice of co-locating satellites is well-known and widely respected within the industry; ASTRA has simultaneously operated up to eight of its own satellites at one orbital position. This achievement has been made possible by expert satellite design and modelling of co-location techniques, and through sophisticated software developed specially by ASTRA engineers for orbit determination as well as stationkeeping manoeuvres computation, optimisation and monitoring.

Our flight dynamics engineers provide the following services, tailored to your needs:

Design or assessment of co-location and orbit determination schemes
Provision of co-location software modules (see products list)
End-to-end management of co-location on behalf of other satellite operators

Satellite and Launcher Procurement

Specifying the design and performance requirements of a new satellite is a critical task. A multitude of factors must be taken into account to ensure the spacecraft meets its commercial, technical and regulatory targets. The follow-up of satellite construction and testing is no less critical if the spacecraft is to fulfil its service mission as expected throughout the entire design lifetime. Extensive experience in satellite design specification, negotiation and procurement -- accumulated through more than 15 ASTRA programs -- enables us to provide complete engineering solutions. These include:

Satellite definition
RFP preparation
Proposal evaluation
Final negotiation of contractual specifications and test plans

One-stop-shop services for evaluating and selecting the optimum launch vehicle is also available, including:

Assistance in launcher selection
Mission design support
Launch services provider and satellite manufacturer interface management
Launcher readiness assessment
Launch site operations follow-up