Precise Satellite Tracking and Orbit Prediction for a Commercial Satellite Operator

A satellite operator involved in launching and managing satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) required support during the critical Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP) of a recent mission. 

With multiple satellites on board a rideshare rocket, the operator faced challenges in maintaining communication and establishing satellite identity immediately after launch.

The objective was to shorten the LEOP phase, allowing the satellite operator to complete in-orbit testing earlier and begin commercial operations sooner. Reducing this timeline accelerates the start of revenue generation, creating immediate financial benefits for the operator.

The Challenge

Rideshare rocket launches, which often carry more than 100 satellites, face significant challenges in quickly identifying and cataloguing newly launched objects.

This process can take days or even weeks for satellites to be added to the space track catalogue and be correctly identified, leading to unreliable satellite communication, delays in satellite commissioning and in-orbit testing. 

For satellite operators, such delays could result in the delay of normal operations. postpone revenue generating operations and in extreme cases, mission failure. 

Approach & Solution

Neuraspace provided a comprehensive tracking and orbit determination solution, by processing data from GNSS, Neuraspace’s optical telescope and our data partners. 

From the initial separation vector, Neuraspace delivered regular daily updates of Two-Line Element (TLEs) by processing tracking data, before the object was even included in the space track catalogue.

Neuraspace's multi-source approach ensured accurate satellite identification and maintained reliable communication during the LEOP phase.

"From shortly before launch until we could confidently identify the customer's satellite in space-track our team worked closely with the satellite operators to ensure they always had accurate and up to date orbit information."

  -- Rob Arthur, Senior Orbit Dynamics Engineer

Key differentiators

Multi-Source Data Integration

Neuraspace combines GNSS data and optical tracking, ensuring both reliability and a high level of accuracy in orbit refinement and prediction. 

Dedicated Telescope

Neuraspace’s in-house telescope provides exclusive tracking of the operator’s satellite, enhancing data precision and reducing dependency on external sources. 

Expert Flight Dynamics Team

Neuraspace’s flight dynamics team ensures timely updates and precise orbit determination, allowing the operator to minimise risks during critical phases. 

Faster Revenue Generation

Neuraspace’s timely identification and tracking enabled the operator to reduce the LEOP timeline, accelerate in-orbit testing, and commenced commercial operations earlier than expected, directly impacting revenue growth.

Are you ready to shorten the LEOP phase and accelerate your satellite’s deployment?

Partner with Neuraspace for precise tracking and real-time orbit determination.

With our data-driven approach and dedicated infrastructure, we help you reduce mission risks, shorten the LEOP phase, and start revenue-generating operations faster.

Contact us today to ensure your mission success.

Schedule a call today to learn more about our LEOP solution.

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Image credits: © Neuraspace via canva.com