Safeguarding Space: Advancing Operations for Mission Success

Space is a highly intricate domain that continues to evolve. Much like a kaleidoscope, its ever-changing nature presents an environment that appears different with each glance. With numerous nations and independent entities developing their own space capabilities and agendas, the complexity and dynamism of the environment is intense, particularly in the context of military operations. The United States Space Force (USSF) continues to make gains in protecting U.S. interests and maintaining operational readiness.

The United States is actively engaged in safeguarding its indispensable space assets. The United States Space Command (USSPACECOM) recently announced its Integrated Priority List that prioritizes "must field" capabilities required to protect and defend space.

“By prioritizing these capabilities, the United States demonstrates its commitment to protecting the space domain. Both the Space Force and USSPACECOM prioritize space as the ultimate high ground, as it will dramatically shape the outcome of political agendas and future conflicts. Whoever controls this domain will control the outcome,” said Rob Atkins, Moog National Security Space Manager.

Technology Needed to Address These Concerns

One of the key drivers for achieving operational superiority lies in the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art systems. Recognizing the importance of dynamic space operations, Moog maintains a leading position in multimode propulsion, and on-board high-speed data processing and communications. The Space Force can enhance its capabilities and maintain a constant state of operational readiness by leveraging these solutions.

Multimode Propulsion:

Multimode propulsion is set to revolutionize spacecraft propulsion by combining a single propellant and a single fuel tank for both chemical and electric propulsion. This will provide flexibility and efficiency as current satellites utilize separate propulsion systems for different maneuvers, resulting in increased mass, volume, and cost. Moog has been at the forefront of research and development related to multimode propulsion, working closely with the USSF and the National Research Laboratory.

The center of a viable multimode system has been the Air Force's green ASCENT monopropellant, an ionic liquid, which at room temperature, can be used to fuel both electric propulsion thrusters and chemical propellants.

“Satellites equipped with multimode propulsion can outmaneuver satellites without such systems and can adapt to different mission priorities throughout their lifespan. Examples are rapid transit through Earth's radiation belts followed by long periods of station-keeping or precise deorbiting at the end of life,” Dr. Shae Williams, Moog Staff Propulsion Engineer.

Multimode propulsion systems decouple mission planning from propulsion system design, allowing for mass production of propulsion systems used across various missions. 

High Speed Processing and Communications

Today's military and commercial satellites require unique capabilities to sense, observe, and resist the advances of our adversaries. With space-based assets facing frequent threats such as cyber hacking and malicious software attacks, robust cybersecurity measures are essential. This necessitates the technology provider to have a deep understanding of the threats and implement robust solutions to prevent adversarial success. 

"By employing unique cybersecurity measures in its spacecraft avionics, the technology Moog provides can help deter attacks. These measures include strong encryption across data storage and data links, detection of software and hardware anomalies, and continuous data integrity checks across memory, data buses, and external telemetry links,” John Schaf, Space Vehicle Avionics Principal Engineer.

The extended duration and reliability demands of on-orbit operations require a comprehensive approach to radiation protection. Moog designs radiation-hardened components into its satellite avionics and electronic systems that undergo rigorous testing and have a proven track record of effectiveness and capability. Moog allocates a substantial Internal Research and Development (IR&D) budget each year for radiation testing of military and COTS electronic components to ensure their suitability for use in space.

ASCENT Green Thruster ASCENT Green Thruster
Cascade Single Board Computer Cascade Single Board Computer
Moog BRE440 Rad Hard SOC Moog BRE440 Rad Hard SOC

Moog is developing the Cascade Single Board Computer (SBC), which is a next-generation radiation-hardened solution incorporating Microchip’s PIC-64-HPSC processor. The HPSC includes 10-core RISC-V, Layer 2 ethernet switch capability, advanced security features and a mature/validated software development support system. The Cascade SBC will be available in high-radiation tolerant configuration for MEO/GEO, and an optimized configuration for shorter-duration LEO missions. It will leverage the use of traditional radiation hard by design (RHBD) components along with proven COTS devices where applicable.

In addition to designing RHBD components, Moog also develops its own RHBD components for special applications and use cases. For example, Moog’s own system-on-chip microprocessor (SOC), the BRE440 SOC processor, represents an extremely capable microprocessor that is capable of reducing SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power). The capability to host popular real-time operating systems with support for legacy Guidance, Navigation, and Control software has made the BRE440 a strategic choice for spacecraft providers. The BRE440 has decades of on-orbit performance over many flight missions. The BRE440A SOC is currently being updated for improved operational performance while maintaining its radiation-hard performance and support for existing software design infrastructure.

Maintaining the Ultimate High Ground

Space has become congested and competitive, with numerous countries and non-state actors developing and deploying space capabilities. Many of these capabilities are designed with malicious purposes, aiming to eliminate the United States’ “high ground” advantage. The future of space operations and defense will require continuous innovation and technological advancements. By embracing advanced systems and investing in emerging technologies, the Guardians can enhance their capabilities and maintain a constant state of operational readiness.