(U) Ascension

(The effects of any budget/program decisions made since the information was collected during 1997-98 are NOT reflected in the National Security Space Road Map (NSSRM).)

Overview: (U)
(U) The Ascension Range Radar is part of the eastern U.S. spacelift range facilities.  It is a metric radar used for telemetry tracking and  collateral support to space control operations.  

Description: (U)
(U)  The Ascension Range Radar instrumentation is being upgraded as part of the Range Standardization and Automation (RSA) program.  The program will overhaul and modernize both the Eastern and Western Ranges, treating the two as a single integrated, standardized range system.  It will use remote control and automation techniques to reduce the number of required operators, sites and facilities, and to produce improved responsiveness.  Communications upgrades will include hardware, associated processors and software, leased service on two INTELSAT Atlantic region satellites, and modifications necssary to provide wide bandwidth (18 MHz) links and data and voice (1.5 Mb/s) links.  The Eastern Spacelift Range is operated by the 45th Space Wing.  

User Impact: (U)
(U) Loss of this capability would have a significant impact on the Space Surveillance Network (SNN).

Programmatics: (U)
(U) Operational.

(U) Organizations and Funding:
	(U) USSPACECOM: Funding Source.

Related Initiatives: (U)
(U) Antigua, RSA Phase 1

Related Requirements: (U)
(U) None.

Related Categories: (U)
(U) Collateral Sensors, Range Radars, Range Standardization & Auto.

Road Map Placements: (U)
(U) SPACE CONTROL: S.S. NETWORK.

Lead Office: (U)
(U) Air Force.

Date of Information: (U)
10 November 1997

(The effects of any budget/program decisions made since the information was collected during 1997-98 are NOT reflected in the National Security Space Road Map (NSSRM).)