Impact of the Space Transportation System on the Air Force Satellite Control Facility

Abstract

The Air Force Satellite Control Facility (AFSCF) has provided real-time tracking, telemetry, and commanding (TT&C) support to military spacecraft and launch vehicles for over two decades. In response to changing Department of Defense (DOD) mission requirements, the AFSCF has grown steadily through expansion and modernization of its TT&C, communications, and data processing capabilities. Development of the Space Transportation System (STS) has accelerated the evolution of the AFSCF network. This paper describes current and projected AFSCF modifications to meet STS requirements.