RT Logic forges small satellite ground support partnership with Spaceflight

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions’ subsidiary RT Logic has entered into a partnership with Spaceflight Networks, Spaceflight Industries’ line of business, to help simplify ground to space communications.

The collaboration will offer small satellite owners and operators the combined benefits of RT Logic’s small sat ground radio products and Spaceflight Networks’ global network of ground stations.

RT Logic manufactures ground radios for small satellite users that have been built to address the unique requirements and business models of the burgeoning small satellite revolution.

Capable of meeting both low rate command and control and high rate mission data downlink needs, the radios leverage signal processing algorithms developed and proven over several years of successful test and on-orbit satellite operations.

In addition, the ground radios utilises virtual machine technology and industry-standard platforms, reducing complexity, cost, risk and schedule for small satellite builders and operators.

RT Logic Business Area Director for small satellite systems Matt Prechtel said: "These new ground radios present a more economical and flexible solution for small satellite missions. They are both modular and scalable, supporting single satellites up to large constellations.

"RT Logic’s partnership with Spaceflight will help simplify and assure ground-to-space communication requirements for small satellite operators so they can focus more completely on mission and payload issues."

Launched in July 2014, Spaceflight Networks addresses the need for cost-effective communications and operations for small satellites.
The company’s network has standardised both the ground and spacecraft radios and communications protocols to simplify integration for its customers.

Spaceflight Industries CEO Jason Andrews said: "We are building an infrastructure to meet the communications needs of the burgeoning small-satellite sector.

"RT Logic’s ground radios will further our mission to improve latency and data throughput compared to what is currently available, minimise operating costs and provide flexibility for small sat operators."

The two companies are scheduled to display their products at the Small Satellite Conference, which is being held in Logan, Utah, US.