The demonstration will occur in collaboration with
Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, who will provide
control of two low-Earth orbit satellites to the Dstl
ground station for tasking validation and verification
purposes.
Lessons learnt from this demonstration will be used to
enhance Dstl’s satellite operations capability as it
looks to lead a growing number of space and ground
demonstrator missions in the future.
Mike O’Callaghan, Dstl’s Space Programme Manager, said:
“Space is increasingly recognised as a critical domain
for the maintenance of UK and global security. Dstl’s
growing capability will support the MOD in enabling
freedom of action in future operations for the UK and
its allies.”
Air Vice Marshal Harv Smyth, MOD’s Director Space,
commented:
“This capability demonstration and collaboration
between Dstl and SSTL is extremely important for
Defence. Dstl and the Space Directorate are working
closer than ever before as we take forward an ambitious
space R&D programme, and the experiences gained
from initiatives such as this help enormously to
underpin our space capability planning for the future.”
Phil Brownnett, Managing Director of SSTL, said
“SSTL is pleased to support Dstl’s ambitions to develop
new space technologies and innovations and welcomes
this opportunity for collaboration to progress its
satellite operations capability.”
