Microcom's Space Newsfeed 18 May 2003<br />Space Industry News from Around the World<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Published by Microcom Systems Ltd, consultants in satellite communications since 1985.
http://www.microcomsystems.co.uk<br /><br />Publishers of the Handbook of Satellite Services in Europe, the definitive guide to European satellite communications:
http://www.microcomsystems.co.uk/pubs/ssie.html. April 2003 issue now available. Also available online - get a temporary password to review the Handbook by sending a blank email to review@satelliteonthenet.co.uk.<br /><br />Other web resources from Microcom Systems:<br /><br />Satellite Industry Links: the largest free satellite and space industry directory on the web
http://www.satellite-links.co.uk<br /><br />Satellite on the Net: white papers, industry events, launch information and space bookshop
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http://www.space-jobs.co.uk<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Contents<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Satcoms:<br />ATCi Signs Agreement to Become Supplier for Teleste Corporation<br />Globecomm Systems and Wegener Announce Strategic Marketing Agreement<br />Hughes Network Systems to Establish Thuraya Services in Russia<br />RSCC Selects Gilat for Russian VSAT Network<br />SkyFrames Teams With NetWorth to Provide Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Solutions<br />Telecom Haiti Offers Hughes Network Systems' DirecWay Broadband Services<br />Tiscali and Eutelsat Partner to Provide Pan-European Broadband Internet Access<br />ViaSat Awarded Phase II Contract for Chinese BAIIT Network<br /><br />Earth Observation:<br />Unique NASA Satellite Watches Rainfall from Space<br /><br />Navigation:<br />Avis Introduces New Satellite Guidance System<br /><br />Military Space:<br />Stratos to Provide Satellite Communications to Australian Defence Force<br />ViaSat Wins Enhanced Bandwidth Efficient Modem Program<br /><br />Technology:<br />Boeing Tests Critical Components for Advanced Rocket Engine<br />NASA Selects In-Space Propulsion Innovations for Research<br /><br />Launch Services:<br />Hellas Sat Signs for Astra Satellite Operations, Ground Control<br />Orbital Expressways Opens for Business<br /><br />Launches:<br />Hellas Sat<br /><br />Business:<br />ND SatCom Founds Subsidiary in the US<br /><br />Products and Services:<br />Analytical Graphics Inc Releases STK 5.0<br />Fleet-Link Tracking Device for Managing Tractor Trailers and Other Mobile Assets<br />International Rectifier Introduces 10 W, Space-Level DC-DC Converters<br />KVH Releases Enhancement to Inmarsat Fleet Service<br />Tandberg Introduces Briefcase-Sized Portable Videoconferencing System<br />Trimble Introduces SiteVision 5.0 for Stakeless Earthworks<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />The Australian GPS Society Inc is proud to host SatNav 2003 - The 6th International Conference on Satellite Navigation Technology Including Mobile Positioning and Location Services. This is being held at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne from 22-25 July 2003. Please go to
http://www.gps-society.org for further information and free membership of the Society.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Bolton Associates - Corporate Strategies applies 21st. Century thinking for the Earth Observation, SatCom and Environment Industries that penetrate new markets using creative commercial Risk models and innovation.<br /><br />Visit us at
http://www.BoltonAssociates.com and/or download our Power Point presentation
http://www.microcomsystems.co.uk/ads/EOConsult.ppt [131Kb]<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Space Bookshop - books for space professionals.<br />
http://www.satelliteonthenet.co.uk/book.html<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Satellite Internet access in Africa, Europe and the Middle East<br />
http://www.satelliteonthenet.co.uk/internet1.html<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Satcoms<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />ATCi Signs Agreement to Become Supplier for Teleste Corporation<br /><br />(13 May 2003) Antenna Technology Communications Inc (ATCi), a Chandler, Arizona based provider of ground-based commercial satellite communications systems, has signed an agreement with Teleste Corporation to distribute their broadband cable networking products to small and mid sized cable operations throughout the United States. Teleste is currently the leading supplier of network and head end solutions for cable operators throughout Europe.<br /><br />The ATCi proprietary Simulsat multibeam provides programming to over 30 million cable subscribers in the US market. Under the new agreement, ATCi and Teleste will partner to offer more robust end-to-end solutions focusing on all parts of the cable network, from content acquisition in the head end to the last amplifier in the access network.<br /><br />(source: ATCi)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Globecomm Systems and Wegener Announce Strategic Marketing Agreement<br /><br />(15 May 2003) Wegener Corporation has announced a strategic marketing agreement with Globecomm Systems Inc. As a result of the agreement, Globecomm has selected Wegener as a strategic hardware and software vendor for its SkyBorne suite of services. As outlined in the agreement, the two companies will work together to cross market each company's products.<br /><br />The agreement between the companies enables Globecomm to offer its customers Wegener products including Compel Network Control, Compel CA encryption, the MediaPlan i/o ingest system, the iPump Media Server and the Unity family of DVB IRDs, as part of its turnkey content delivery solutions.<br /><br />Compel is a suite of software products that provides a complete system for content creation, management and distribution. This includes the Compel Network Control, MediaPlan i/o and Unity IRDs. Compel is the core server and network control system. Compel CA adds encryption and conditional access. Compel Web provides for secure operation of the Compel system from a remote web browser. Compel MediaPlan integrates content and asset management. MediaPlan i/o enables broadcasters to encode, edit and add metadata to media content.<br /><br />(source: Wegener Corp)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Hughes Network Systems to Establish Thuraya Services in Russia<br /><br />(13 May 2003) Hughes Network Systems Inc (HNS) has entered into a letter of intent (LOI) for the establishment of satellite-enabled Thuraya mobile telephone service in Russia.<br /><br />HNS is joined in the LOI by three firms: (1) the satellite-based service provider, Thuraya Satellite Telecommunications Company; (2) TMSat, a privately owned Russian service provider, which holds the sole rights to distribute and market Thuraya's services and products throughout Russia; and (3) the Russian Federation's largest satellite operator, Russian Satellite Communications Company (RSCC).<br /><br />With a huge satellite footprint over North and Central Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, Thuraya's reach covers more than two billion people. In a little more than one year of service, Thuraya has won more than 125,000 subscribers, all utilising the small, cell phone-sized Thuraya handset that combines satellite, GSM cellular and GPS functionality, developed and manufactured by HNS. Boeing is the prime contractor for the satellite platform, while HNS supplies the Thuraya communications gateway and network management system, in addition to manufacturing Thuraya phones.<br /><br />Under the terms of the LOI, TMSat has committed to acquire a Thuraya communications gateway and satellite earth station from HNS, which will be installed in Dubna, Russia and be operated by RSCC on TMSat's behalf. Initially, TMSat's service in Russia will operate through the Thuraya Primary Gateway in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, provided by HNS and commissioned in 2002.<br /><br />(source: Hughes Network Systems)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />RSCC Selects Gilat for Russian VSAT Network<br /><br />(14 May 2003) Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd, the Russian Satellite Communications Company (RSCC) and the gaming company, JackPot, have signed an agreement to deploy a Skystar 360E hub and VSAT network with sites throughout the Russian Federation. RSCC is Russia's largest satellite operator, with ownership of all Russian satellites. The agreement came at the end of competitive process in which Gilat emerged as the preferred vendor. Delivery of the equipment is expected within 60 days.<br /><br />The JackPot agreement includes a Skystar 360E hub and 500 remote sites, which will allow for network-wide gambling for JackPot customers at the gaming sites on-line, as well as an independent network for data transfer within the JackPot organisation. JackPot customers who play on one machine can win the entire jackpot, which is collected by thousands of machines across the network. The rollout of the network is expected to be completed by the end of this year. A special telecommunications company called 'Stec.com' was established to implement and manage the project.<br /><br />Beyond the JackPot project, RSCC plans on offering a wide variety of broadband and IP services to its customers throughout Russia. Gilat's Skystar 360E solution will be an important part of that offering.<br /><br />The Skystar 360E platform offers a flexible, two-way, satellite-based solution enabling interactive broadband IP and multicasting applications. With DVB standards and extensive IP capabilities, the Skystar 360E supports virtually any data and IP multicast application.<br /><br />(source: Gilat Satellite Networks)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />SkyFrames Teams With NetWorth to Provide Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Solutions<br /><br />(13 May 2003) SkyFrames Inc has signed an agreement with NetWorth LLC, Fort Lauderdale, Florida to resell and install SkyFrames' satellite broadband offerings. NetWorth LLC has a customer base of over 1200 customers and will present this new business offering to all of its clients. NetWorth will offer a unique solution to resell SkyFrames' systems into the business continuity and disaster recovery markets for local customers, multi-national corporations, and governments.<br /><br />NetWorth LLC, a value-added integrator in South Florida, will utilise SkyFrames' broadband offerings to introduce non-terrestrial business continuity offerings to corporations in Florida that require immediate disaster recovery from hurricanes and other tropical disturbances.<br /><br />Business continuity and disaster recovery are composed of multiple components in order to help reduce revenue and data loss, these include the protection of mission-critical data by leveraging SkyFrames' infrastructure, reducing downtime, and increasing employee productivity, thereby allowing enterprise to resume business and employee activities more quickly and cost-effectively following a disaster or other unplanned business interruption.<br /><br />(source: SkyFrames)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Telecom Haiti Offers Hughes Network Systems' DirecWay Broadband Services<br /><br />(14 May 2003) Telecom Haiti has signed a contract with Hughes Network Systems (HNS) as a value-added provider offering DirecWay two-way, high-speed Internet access services to corporations, small businesses, educational institutions and consumers throughout Haiti.<br /><br />DirecWay broadband by satellite services are available in either single user or LAN terminal configurations, with scalable grades of service, allowing enterprise customers to deploy a network solution tailored to their specific requirements and readily expandable as their business growth demands.<br /><br />Telecom Haiti has been providing two-way radio and telecommunications services with national network coverage in Haiti for over 15 years. In April 2003, Telecom Haiti began providing a new service, HNS' DirecWay broadband satellite Internet access. The growing list of customers in Haiti includes NGOs (non- governmental organisations), corporations, small businesses, educational centres, Internet cafes and individual consumers.<br /><br />(source: Hughes Network Systems)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Tiscali and Eutelsat Partner to Provide Pan-European Broadband Internet Access<br /><br />(15 May 2003) Tiscali and Eutelsat have announced a partnership agreement whereby Tiscali will provide its European subscribers with one-way Satellite Fast Internet Access through Eutelsat’s OpenSky platform.<br />Thanks to this agreement, Tiscali will widen its Satellite product portfolio with the one-way satellite Internet service catered for a wider audience both in terms of functionality and pricing. This new offer follows the two-way Satellite broadband Internet service developed for high-skilled business users, which Tiscali launched as one of the first operators in Europe.<br /><br />With this new offer Tiscali aims at reaching residential subscribers located in areas not covered by broadband ADSL or cable network through a hybrid technology. In Europe at least 50 per cent of the territory and 25 per cent of the overall population will remain out of reach of these terrestrial broadband networks, corresponding to a potential 25 million homes.<br /><br />The roll-out of the new Tiscali Satellite Internet offer is scheduled to take off in the upcoming weeks in all 15 countries of the Tiscali Network.<br /><br />The DVB-IP based OpenSky platform is operated by Eutelsat from its network operation centre in the Paris area that reaches throughout Europe, North Africa and the near Middle East using Eutelsat’s W3 satellite. The OpenSky platform adds a high-speed satellite downlink to a regular Tiscali dial-up connection, boosting the performance for Tiscali Internet subscribers. The OpenSky platform supports superfast web surfing and downloading at speeds of up to 2 Mb/s. In addition, OpenSky provides multimedia channels bringing streaming MPEG4 video channels and pre-packaged multimedia content directly to the PCs of Tiscali subscribers. Both free-to-air and subscription channels are available in the OpenSky content package.<br /><br />(source: Eutelsat)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />ViaSat Awarded Phase II Contract for Chinese BAIIT Network<br /><br />(15 May 2003) The Beijing Application Institute of Information Technology (BAIIT), China has awarded a US$ 5.7 million contract to ViaSat Inc for the Phase II expansion of its private network to over 300 remote sites.<br /><br />BAIIT will use StarWire VSAT networking products to build the network for video, IP data, and telephony services. The network is the largest VSAT network to take advantage of cost savings and bandwidth capacity increases provided by Paired Carrier Multiple Access (PCMA), a ViaSat technique that can increase bandwidth capacity by as much as 100%.<br /><br />StarWire advanced IP features combined with PCMA allow the BAIIT network to serve a much larger number of concurrent users than is possible with other VSAT equipment within the same satellite bandwidth. PCMA is a patented ViaSat technology that combines both send and receive signals into the same bandwidth. A terminal equipped with PCMA recognises the signal that it sent and simply cancels out that information, leaving it with the information received from any other transmitting location.<br /><br />BAIIT is building networks, integrated with terrestrial circuits, using fixed-beam, high-powered Ku-band satellite transponders to provide three different services:<br /><br />* Television video gathering from remote sites<br />* High-speed point-to-point IP data, and<br />* Full-mesh telephony services.<br /><br />BAIIT, headquartered in Beijing and with branches in most major cities in China, is a leading IT service provider, that operates and manages The Private Satellite Communication Network of BAIIT, an integrated communication platform that focuses on multimedia applications including video, data, and voice. The company also provides telecommunication, computer networking, and video transmission service to China government agencies.<br /><br />(source: ViaSat)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Earth Observation<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Unique NASA Satellite Watches Rainfall from Space<br /><br />(12 May 2003) Data from NASA's Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite, along with information from other satellites, allows researchers to see how much rain is falling over most of the world every three hours. This capability enables scientists to daily map areas of potential flooding.<br /><br />These maps, available to the public on the Internet, will help water resource managers and scientists around the world by providing near-real time data of rainfall and flood potential. TRMM is considered a unique "rain gauge in the sky," because its instruments can look into clouds to determine rainfall, while other satellites can only see flooded areas after floods have occurred.<br /><br />Because of its extraordinary capability, TRMM is used to calibrate and fine-tune measurements of rainfall taken by other satellites, leading to current updated records on a global scale. Once baselines are established, researchers use the higher quality TRMM data wherever possible and fill in the gaps with data from other satellites to get a more complete picture of rainfall around the world.<br /><br />Maps that show areas of potential floods use precipitation radar data and high-resolution measurements of water content of clouds made by microwave radiometers. The maps span the Earth from 50 degrees north latitude to 50 degrees south latitude (an area just north of the US-Canadian border and south to the tip of Argentina).<br /><br />There are three variations of the rainfall accumulation maps, including 24-hour maps showing areas where more than 35 mm of rain has accumulated; maps with three-day accumulations of more than 100 mm; and maps depicting areas with weeklong accumulations of more than 200 mm.<br /><br />Another map product, updated every three hours, shows a global snapshot of rainfall. A seven-day "movie loop" of the images allows users to track storms as they travel over land and oceans around the globe. Researchers use these near-global rainfall maps to monitor formation and dissipation of El Nino/Southern Oscillation conditions, soil moisture, and ocean salinity. These maps also are useful to water resource managers and farmers around the world.<br /><br />The maps merge data from the TRMM Microwave Imager Precipitation Radar with information from other microwave satellites and geosynchronous weather satellite infrared data. Exploiting the strengths of multiple data sources increases the accuracy of the maps.<br /><br />TRMM is a joint US-Japanese mission and part of NASA's Earth Science Enterprise, a long-term research program designed to study the Earth's land, oceans, air, ice and life as a total system. The TRMM satellite was launched on November 27, 1997.<br /><br />(source: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Navigation<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Avis Introduces New Satellite Guidance System<br /><br />(12 May 2003) Avis Rent A Car System Inc will be testing the introduction of the Avis Satellite Guidance System in 3,000 full-size vehicles in Florida, California and Nevada. If successful, Avis has plans to roll out this new technology to additional vehicles and locations by the end of the year.<br /><br />With the addition of the pre-installed Satellite Guidance to the Avis fleet, customers now have a faster and easier way to get to their final destination. Developed through a partnership with Audiovox and Siemens VDO Automotive, the Avis Satellite Guidance system uses Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) and Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) technology to accurately provide point-to-point driving directions to renters. Avis is the only rental car company that features the VSS technology allowing for accurate calculation of the vehicle's location, even if the GPS signal is temporarily lost. Other highlights of the system include:<br /><br />* Audible turn-by-turn directions for safe driving<br />* English and Spanish for both voice and text<br />* The most complete and accurate mapping available in a rental car<br />* A large easy-to-read colour display with split-screen capabilities to<br /> view both the map and directional arrow simultaneously<br />* 1.5 million points of interest (POIs) are accessible - offering everything<br /> from gas stations, ATMs, restaurants and hotels to popular tourist<br /> destinations<br />* Alternate route calculation<br />* Storage of previous destination for quicker navigation start<br /><br />Avis also features the OnStar emergency assistance/navigation system and recently launched Avis Assist, a GPS Guidance System delivered through a Motorola cell phone.<br /><br />Vehicles equipped with the Avis Satellite Guidance System may be rented for an additional cost of US$ 7.95 per day.<br /><br />(source: Avis Rent A Car System Inc)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Military Space<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Stratos to Provide Satellite Communications to Australian Defence Force<br /><br />(14 May 2003) Stratos has won a competitive contract with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to provide Inmarsat-B voice and data leased services. These services will be used by the ADF for strategic, tactical, and logistic communications among a number of its naval and land-based units.<br /><br />The contract provides for 4 Inmarsat-B leased circuits for up to 5 years. ADF will benefit with the Stratos leased solution by reducing their costs related to data usage. More efficient use of space segment will allow the ADF to utilise dedicated high speed data links to their maritime fleet. <br /><br />(source: Stratos Global Corporation)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />ViaSat Wins Enhanced Bandwidth Efficient Modem Program<br /><br />(14 May 2003) ViaSat Inc has been awarded an eight-year, delivery order contract by the US Army Communications Electronics Command (CECOM) to design and produce the Enhanced Bandwidth Efficient Modem (EBEM), a new military standard for high-speed satellite communications. The firm-fixed-price Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract begins with a purchase of strategic (fixed) and tactical (shipboard) units valued at US$ 7.8 million.<br /><br />CECOM's objectives for the EBEM program are to advance to a commercial, state-of-the-art modem that can support the communications, command and control requirements of today's highly mobile, joint US forces. EBEM will interface to a variety of legacy military communications equipment, but use advanced technologies, such as turbo coding and higher order modulation techniques, to increase efficiency and throughput. The new modems are designed to send and receive data at speeds from 64 kb/s to 155 Mb/s.<br /><br />(source: ViaSat)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Technology<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Boeing Tests Critical Components for Advanced Rocket Engine<br /><br />(15 May 2003) Boeing has successfully tested a state-of-the-art liquid oxygen turbopump, marking a significant step forward in the development of next-generation rocket engine technology.<br /><br />A team comprised of Boeing Rocketdyne Propulsion and Power, US Air Force, and NASA personnel conducted the hot-fire testing at NASA's John C Stennis Space Center. Boeing Rocketdyne designs, develops and manufactures rocket propulsion and space power systems including the Space Shuttle Main Engine and the RS-68 and RS-27A engines for the Boeing Delta family of launch vehicles.<br /><br />The test, one of nine planned, followed a related series of hot-fire tests in which a Boeing Rocketdyne-built pre-burner that provides oxygen-rich gasses to the oxidiser turbopump turbine drive went "six for six" in the series. The Rocketdyne pre-burner was subsequently attached to the new oxidiser turbopump for testing. Both test series were conducted for the Air Force Research Laboratory's Integrated Powerhead Demonstration (IPD).<br /><br />Upon completion of the hot-fire test series, the oxidiser turbopump will become part of the IPD engine system and help to provide advancement of key technologies that could find application in future Air Force rocket applications or NASA's Next Generation Launch Technology program.<br /><br />The IHPRPT program is a co-ordinated effort between the Department of Defense, NASA and industry to develop revolutionary and innovative technologies by the year 2010 that will generate significant enhancements of rocket propulsion capabilities over current state-of-the-art technologies.<br /><br />(source: Boeing)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />NASA Selects In-Space Propulsion Innovations for Research<br /><br />(16 May 2003) NASA has selected 15 industry, government and academic organisations to pursue 22 innovative propulsion technology research proposals that could revolutionise exploration and scientific study of the solar system.<br /><br />Total value of the work to be done over a three-year period is approximately US$ 20 million, with US$ 9.6 million in fiscal year 2003; US$ 10.2 million in fiscal year 2004; and US$ 0.6 million in fiscal year 2005. The research will be conducted in five, in-space propulsion technology areas: aerocapture; advanced chemical propulsion; solar electric propulsion; space-based tether propulsion; and solar sail technologies.<br /><br />Each technology identified for development is part of the In-Space Propulsion (ISP) Program, managed in the Office of Space Sciences, NASA Headquarters. The awards are being made as part of the In-Space Propulsion Technologies "Cycle 2" amendment to NASA Research Announcement 02-OSS-01.<br /><br />Contract awards:<br /><br />* Aerocapture Technology: Ball Aerospace, Lockheed Martin<br />* Advanced Chemical Propulsion: TRW Space & Electronics, NASA Jet Propulsion<br /> Laboratory (three awards), VACCO Industries<br />* Kilowatt Solar Electric Propulsion System: NASA Glenn Research Center,<br /> Busek Co Inc<br />* Momentum-eXchange/Electrodynamic Reboost (MXER) Tether Technology: Tethers<br /> Unlimited Inc (two awards), Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, Tennessee<br /> Technological University, Lockheed Martin (two awards)<br />* Solar Sails: NASA Langley Research Center (two awards), NASA Jet Propulsion<br /> Laboratory, Arizona State University, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center,<br /> US Naval Research Laboratory, SRS Technologies<br /><br />The ISP Program is managed by the Office of Space Science, NASA Headquarters, and is implemented by MSFC.<br /><br />(source: NASA)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Launch Services<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Hellas Sat Signs for Astra Satellite Operations, Ground Control<br /><br />(14 May 2003) SES Astra, Hellas Sat Consortium Ltd and Hellas Sat SA have signed two contracts for Astra TechCom services covering the Hellas Sat satellite which was successfully launched on May 13th, onboard an Atlas V launch vehicle from Cape Canaveral, Florida.<br /><br />Astra has been contracted to provide TT&C services (Telemetry, Tracking & Command) for the new Eurostar 2000+ type satellite, manufactured by Astrium of France. For a period of 12 months, Astra will ensure full control of the satellite from its headquarters in Betzdorf, Luxembourg, and Thermopylae Earth Station, Greece, which is owned and operated by OTE. During this period, Astra will be in charge of the continuous operation of the satellite in orbit, including spacecraft bus, payload and orbital control management.<br /><br />Astra has also signed a contract to provide, install, and integrate two ground control stations for Hellas Sat, located in Greece and Cyprus respectively. After completion of the two stations, the in-orbit control of the satellite will be transferred from Astra to Hellas Sat.<br /><br />Hellas Sat, with headquarters in Nicosia and Athens, plans to offer new commercial satellite services, exploiting the frequency spectrum available to Greece and Cyprus. The Hellas Sat satellite is notably intended to cover the summer Olympics in Athens in 2004.<br /><br />(source: SES Astra)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Orbital Expressways Opens for Business<br /><br />(13 May 2003) Low-cost space access provider Orbital Expressways has announced that it is now offering commercial launches and has announced details of its first two missions.<br /><br />Orbital Expressways has been contracted for two launches in 2003 by Paragon Astronautics:<br /><br />* June 2003 - 75,000 ft. endo-atmosphere research flight<br />* September 2003 - 100 km space research flight<br /><br />The company will begin its 2003 operations in Black Rock Desert, Nevada, and is currently working on additional launch sites and facilities located in Nevada and in other areas of the continental US.<br /><br />(source: Orbital Expressways)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Launches<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Hellas Sat<br /><br />Launched: 13 May 2003<br />Site: Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida<br />Launcher: Atlas 5<br />Orbit: GEO<br />International Number: 2003-020A<br />Name: Hellas Sat<br />Owner: Hellas-Sat Consortium Ltd<br />Contractor: Astrium<br /><br />Hellas Sat is a commercial communications satellite owned and operated by Hellas-Sat Consortium Ltd. Hellas Sat is based on Astrium's Eurostar 2000+ platform. It carries 30 Ku band transponders and weighed 3,250 kg at lift off. It has a design life of 15 years.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Business<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />ND SatCom Founds Subsidiary in the US<br /><br />(14 May 2003) ND SatCom AG of Germany, a leading global supplier of satellite based broadband VSAT, broadcast and military communication network solutions, has founded ND SatCom Inc as a U.S. subsidiary.<br /><br />In response to the increasing global demand for satellite communication solutions in the Americas, the subsidiary will be ready for operation by the end of May to cover ND SatCom AGs' activities in region. The facility in Dallas, Texas will house sales, operations, engineering and customer support staff.<br /><br />ND SatCom AG has appointed Christopher Morris as President and CEO of its American subsidiary. Christopher Morris brings over 23 years experience in the satellite communications industry with major corporations in leadership positions, most recently as General Manager of the IDB Systems division of WorldCom.<br /><br />Robert E Scott will be filling the position as Vice President Sales of ND SatCom Inc Robert E Scott has over 25 years experience in the satellite communications industry, in 18 of which was directly involved in the sales and marketing fields. Since 1979 he has held several positions within Vertex Communications, most recently as Vice President Marketing and Sales.<br /><br />(source: ND Satcom)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Products and Services<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Analytical Graphics Inc Releases STK 5.0<br /><br />(12 May 2003) Analytical Graphics Inc (AGI) has released the next generation of its Satellite Tool Kit (STK) analysis and visualisation software, STK 5.0.<br /><br />This version of AGI's commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) product provides a new graphical user interface (GUI) based on familiar Microsoft Windows standards, which gives the software an intuitive look and feel. It also features an HTML interface that enables users to tailor their workspace to address specific tasks of interest, and is based on a more open architecture that supports customisation and integration with other software packages. STK's underlying verified algorithms and complex geometry engine have been expanded to provide more powerful analysis than ever before. This software release is available for Windows NT, 2000, and XP.<br /><br />In addition to the user-experience enhancements included in STK 5.0, AGI has upgraded many of the other modules in the STK software suite.<br /><br />STK Standard is available free of charge to all aerospace and defence professionals. To obtain a free STK CD-ROM, call +1 800 220 4785 or +1 610 578 1000, e-mail info@stk.com, or go to AGI's website at
www.stk.com.<br /><br />(source: Analytical Graphics)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Fleet-Link Tracking Device for Managing Tractor Trailers and Other Mobile Assets<br /><br />(13 May 2003) CSI Wireless Inc, a designer and manufacturer of advanced GPS and wireless products, has introduced Fleet- Link, a tracking and reporting device for remotely managing tractor trailers and other mobile assets and cargo.<br /><br />An extension of CSI Wireless' Asset-Link family of innovative and cost-effective fleet-tracking and telematics products, the GPS- and cellular-equipped Fleet-Link can function using the truck's power system or using solar power - enabling untethered or unpowered trailers to continue reporting their status for up to 60 days without any external electrical source. Fleet-Link combines accurate positioning and real-time communication to give operators around-the-clock location and status information.<br /><br />Fleet-Link's state-of-the-art Global Position System (GPS) technology can pinpoint the location of a tracked asset to within 15 metres with minimal power consumption. Its cellular radio, using MicroBurst Control Channel technology or Circuit Switched data, delivers immediate reports throughout North America plus parts of Central and South America. Fleet-Link's environmentally sealed enclosure can be discreetly and securely mounted almost anywhere on or in a tractor trailer or other mobile asset.<br /><br />Trucking companies, heavy equipment operators, vehicle rental companies, perishable goods shippers and other companies need to know where their assets are, and what condition they are in, around the clock. The rugged Fleet-Link tracker/monitor, with seven input/output ports, is easily customised to give managers and operators the information they need to keep their assets rolling and their equipment safe.<br /><br />The customer determines what combination of alerts and notices are needed for each application. Examples of the many events and conditions that can be monitored and reported include:<br /><br />* Cargo stopped outside of its origin or destination for a<br /> longer-than-required time<br />* Vehicle speed in excess of known limits<br />* Engine use or idle time beyond normal limits<br />* Refrigerated load temperature outside of safe range<br />* Door alarms or other motion-sensing devices have been activated<br />* Cargo weight has changed en route<br />* GPS-derived odometer reports<br />* Use and location of leased assets<br /><br />Fleet-Link, which will be available by late summer, can be programmed with any combination of 65 different exceptions, meters, actions, events, engine controls, notifications and inclusions - giving service providers the flexibility to configure the product to his or her specific needs.<br /><br />The standard Fleet-Link unit contains the GPS receiver, communications link, rechargeable batteries, back-up power port and antennas. A solar-powered version that is also available can charge internal or external batteries. It is encased in a rugged outer housing and a separate, equally rugged solar panel with embedded antennas for satellite signal reception and cellular communication. Both versions can be installed in only a few minutes.<br /><br />When equipped with its 4.5-watt solar panel, Fleet-Link will transmit position reports every hour for years without interruption - matching the useable life-span of nearly every asset the customer deploys.<br /><br />CSI Wireless is also developing a Fleet-Link product for marine applications, and plans to introduce it in late 2003 or early 2004.<br /><br />(source: CSI Wireless)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />International Rectifier Introduces 10 W, Space-Level DC-DC Converters<br /><br />(13 May 2003) International Rectifier (IR) has introduced a new line of 10 watt, radiation-hardened, off-the-shelf DC-DC converters. The new devices are available either unscreened or screened to Class K per MIL-PRF-38534, simplifying qualification processes and enabling faster project completion compared to custom-designed converters.<br /><br />Small and light, the new S-series converters are an ideal choice for low power circuits such as analogue and digital control power systems, as well as signal amplifiers and sensors in geo-synchronous (GEO) and low earth orbit (LEO) satellite applications.<br /><br />The new converters feature 28 VDC input, with single or dual output configurations, and operate up to 81% efficiency. The new S Series converter line includes various functional and protection features such as under-voltage lockout, output over-voltage limiter, on/off inhibit, short-circuit and overload protection. Other features include magnetically coupled feedback, with radiation hardness of 100krads total ionising dose (TID).<br /><br />The new converters address the requirements of neutron fluence and prompt dose requirements that may be the key design considerations in many applications.<br /><br />Feature Summary<br /><br />* 18V to 40V DC input range<br />* Up to 10W output power<br />* Single and dual output: 3.3V, 5V, 12V, 15V, +/-5V, +/-12V and +/-15V<br />* -55 degrees Celsius to +125 degrees Celsius operating temperature<br /><br />The new S-series converters are available immediately. The new devices are available either unscreened or screened to Class K per MIL-PRF-38534. This product is subject to US export control laws and regulations.<br /><br />(source: International Rectifier)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />KVH Releases Enhancement to Inmarsat Fleet Service<br /><br />(12 May 2003) KVH has unveiled its new Velocity Acceleration data rate upgrade, which provides a 300-500% increase in data speed for Inmarsat Fleet. The Velocity Acceleration data rate upgrade boosts the Fleet service's mobile Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and mobile packet data service (MPDS) data rates from high-speed 64 kb/s to broadband-level 200-300 kb/s throughout Fleet's global coverage area. Optimised for use over satellite connections and fully compatible with KVH's Tracphone F77 and new Tracphone F55 products, Velocity Acceleration is a free upgrade for any Inmarsat equipment owner who activates their Fleet service through the "Inmarsat Airtime by KVH" program.<br /><br />The increased data rates are made possible using the same Velocity Acceleration data enhancement technology employed by KVH in its TracNet Mobile High-speed Internet System as well as with Inmarsat mini-M voice, fax, and data service. The Fleet Velocity Acceleration data rate upgrade is compatible with PC-based computers and has been optimised for use with Inmarsat services.<br /><br />The Fleet Velocity Acceleration data rate upgrade enhances both the MPDS and ISDN channels within the Fleet service, with data rates reaching speeds as fast as 200-300 kb/s. Designed for short-burst data transmissions, Fleet's MPDS is perfect for receiving e-mail, logging onto and working within a company intranet, or browsing the web. And with its "pay per bit" pricing, users are charged only for the amount of the data sent and received, not by connection time. Using MPDS, a vessel can remain connected via e-mail or the Internet 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at no additional cost, making maritime Internet access a far more relaxing experience. Adding a new level of affordability to the system, the Fleet Velocity Acceleration data rate upgrade can substantially reduce the number of bits transmitted and received while using MPDS. Fleet also offers a high-capacity mobile ISDN channel, which provides a constant data stream, making it ideal for phone and fax service, video conferencing, and transmitting large files and images. ISDN usage is charged on a per-minute basis.<br /><br />(source: KVH Industries)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Tandberg Introduces Briefcase-Sized Portable Videoconferencing System<br /><br />(13 May 2003) Tandberg has introduced the Tandberg Tactical line of portable, briefcase-sized integrated videoconferencing systems designed for demanding in-field applications. Compatible with US Department of Defense (DoD) secure networks, Tandberg Tactical videoconferencing systems are ideal for both civilian and military use where highly mobile personnel require secure, reliable visual communication with their organisations.<br /><br />Housed in a sleek, heavy-duty aluminium case, the self-contained Tandberg Tactical units measure 46 x 53 x 20 cm. The interoperability of the units - built upon Tandberg's standards-based architecture - adds to the Tactical's appeal for organisations that already have videoconferencing tools in place, for example:<br /><br />* Homeland security and governmental emergency response agencies dispatched<br /> to disaster areas can use the Tandberg Tactical videoconference system to<br /> conduct on-site briefings between field personnel and off-site co-ordinators<br /> to enhance relief efforts via live multi-media briefings.<br />* Law enforcement agencies can establish temporary mobile field command posts<br /> that take advantage of Tactical's highly portable, easy-to-use profile and<br /> configuration.<br />* Military training and field personnel can utilise Tandberg Tactical for<br /> training or deployment briefings, thanks to its DoD-compliant architecture<br /> and support of satellite communications.<br /><br />The Tandberg Tactical 6000 and Tactical 2500 videoconferencing systems integrate a 15" screen, headset, camera, microphone, speakers and encryption. The Tandberg Tactical 6000 and 2500 offer the same standards-based, feature-rich performance as Tandberg's corporate systems, including:<br /><br />* Multiple network protocols such as IP, ISDN (PRI and multiple BRI);<br />* Bandwidth up to 2Mbps ISDN/3 Mb/s IP (Tactical 6000);<br />* Bandwidth up to 384kbps ISDN/768 kb/s IP (Tactical 2500);<br />* Automatic downspeeding to protect against network interruptions; and<br />* Network choice, including satellite (INMARSAT and VSAT), leased line or<br /> other networks.<br /><br />Developed in direct response to the needs of its government customers, the Tactical family embodies the Company's commitment to performance and open-systems architecture. By maintaining compatibility with industry standards, Tandberg Tactical videoconferencing systems are the benchmark in field video conferencing. The Tactical is compatible with numerous standards, including IP, H.261, H.263x, H.320, H.323, ISDN, LAN/Ethernet, TCP/IP, FTP and SNMP. It also supports DoD and NATO standards for secure communication. Tandberg Tactical units are offered for sale only in North America and select countries.<br /><br />(source: Tandberg)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Trimble Introduces SiteVision 5.0 for Stakeless Earthworks<br /><br />(13 May 2003) Trimble has introduced version 5.0 of its groundbreaking SiteVision System - a 3D machine guidance and control system for use on dozers, scrapers, motor graders, compactors and excavators. Based on ongoing customer feedback, version 5 offers a variety of new features designed to further increase the productivity of earthworks operations. The many benefits of using SiteVision 5.0 include faster job cycles, lower labour costs, lower machine hours, less staking and less rework.<br /><br />Precise to 30 mm, the SiteVision System utilises Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. A GPS receiver installed on the dozer or grader continually computes the exact position of GPS antennas installed on each end of the blade of the machine. An on-board computer determines the exact position of each tip of the blade and compares these positions to design elevation. It then computes the cut or fill to grade. This information is displayed on the in-cab screen, and the cut/fill data is passed to the SiteVision lightbars, which guide the operator up or down for grade and right or left of a defined alignment. The cut/fill data is also used to drive the valves for automatic blade control.<br /><br />SiteVision version 5.0 is available in eight European languages. To enhance usability and improve productivity for both the machine operation and contractor, Trimble has added a number of specific features, which include:<br /><br />* Cut/Fill Mapping allows the operator to significantly improve material<br /> movement by being able to easily identify cut and fill locations. The<br /> Cut/Fill Mapping feature calculates and displays the cut or fill required<br /> using a colour-coded map on the SV170 in-cab display. This information<br /> enables the operator to grade an area with fewer passes and move material<br /> more efficiently.<br />* Coverage Mapping provides visual feedback as to the number of passes that<br /> have been made over an area. This is especially important to operators of<br /> compactors and rollers, where multiple passes are made over the same area.<br /> The Coverage Mapping feature allows the operator to input the number of<br /> passes required, and the map display updates colours automatically to<br /> indicate the number of passes completed.<br />* Terrain Mapping allows contractors to use the machine to easily create a<br /> terrain or topographic map of the earthworks project. By logging this data,<br /> the contractor can create progress maps to measure productivity<br />* Enhanced Avoidance Zones enables the contractor to clearly identify areas to<br /> be avoided such as underground utilities or toxic areas. The avoidance zone<br /> areas are highlighted on the in-cab SV170 display and generate a loud,<br /> audible tone when the machine approaches the boundaries of the area. This<br /> feature increases the operator's awareness of areas to avoid, regardless of<br /> visibility conditions.<br /><br />SiteVision version 5.0 is expected to be available in the second quarter through Trimble's Geomatics and Engineering Division dealer network.<br /><br />(source: Trimble)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Press releases should be sent to: newsfeed@microcomsystems.co.uk<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Microcom makes no charge for this service and makes no payments for the use of material. Microcom makes no warranties about the quality of this free service and accepts no liability for mistakes and errors. Use of this service is taken as confirmation of acceptance of these conditions.<br /><br />If you require further information contact Microcom by email: info@microcomsystems.co.uk<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />This newsletter, and archives dating back to January 2000, can be viewed on the web at
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