MODERNIZING THE REMOTE TRACKING STATION

Abstract

Since the inception of the Air Force Satellite Control Network (AFSCN) in the late 1950s, capabilities of the network’s Remote Tracking Stations (RTSs) were evolutionarily developed to meet satellite Tracking, Telemetry, and Commanding (TT&C) needs. The result, although fully satisfactory operationally, was an RTS network requiring manpowerintensive mission support. Additionally, reconfiguration of an RTS between satellite contacts consumed far more time than was operationally desirable as demands for RTS contact support continued to grow. To improve network responsiveness and cost effectiveness, the Air Force undertook, in the mid-1980s, a major “block upgrade” under the Automated Remote Tracking Station (ARTS) Program. This paper traces historical RTS capabilities, identifies emerging mid1980s RTS support requirements, and defines the operational and financial advantages accruing to the Air Force through ARTS implementation to meet those requirements. Possible future upgrades to further enhance AFSCN TT&C mission capability are also briefly discussed.