The latest US satellites NTS-3: what are the advantages and what will they use
In the US, they are preparing to launch new satellites NTS-3 into space. They will have to quickly supply data to the US Air Force fighters. The launch is scheduled for 2022, but much will depend on funding.
As you know, the NTS-1 satellite was developed by the US Naval Laboratory and launched back in 1974, and NTS-2 in 1977. Now it's NTS-3's turn.
The development of the satellite for navigation technologies 3 (NTS-3) is carried out at the US Air Force Research Laboratory and the Space and Rocket Systems Center. The main contractor for the project is L3Harris Technologies. In 2018, this company signed a contract worth $ 84 million. Now, according to the company, the satellite is in a state of active development.
One of the most important characteristics of the satellite, in addition to the new elemental base, increased positioning accuracy, increased efficiency, is that the satellite is geostationary.
Bill Guttle, president of L3Harris Space Systems, emphasizes that the new constellation will consist of no less than 4, and probably also of 8 satellites. They will be placed not in the middle Earth orbit (20 km), but in the geosynchronous orbit (000 km), which will allow covering the region with fewer satellites. Now, at least 36 satellites are required to provide a global signal, and new technology will significantly reduce their number.
In addition to high maneuverability, satellites will also be distinguished by a fully digital navigation payload. As new capabilities develop, the satellite software will also be updated, which will allow it to be constantly upgraded, leading to a state adequate to current challenges and risks.
The NTS-3 space segment includes the latest components not previously used on GPS satellites. Among them is an improved antenna system, which will be of particular interest to the military. One of the most important experiments with a high gain antenna is the determination of the effect of a controlled beam on the displacement and change of the phase center, both for users of powerful signals and for users of Earth coverage signals.
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It is also worth noting that L3Harris is currently digitizing GPS navigation systems. Now GPS III satellites are 70% digitalized. At the same time, according to the president of the company, two GPS III satellites are already in orbit, and the third should be launched in April 2020.
Returning to the NTS-3 review, it should be noted that, unlike other American experimental satellites, it will have important applied value for fighter aviation US Air Force, as it will increase the GPS aggregate and will provide a geographically focused signal (Positioning, Navigation and Timing signal).
As we can see, recently the United States has been paying increasing attention to the development of space programs, including the creation of new satellites. President Donald Trump considers the space direction as one of the highest priorities. It is no coincidence that it was on his initiative that the US Space Forces were allocated.
Now, success in the operations of the air force and naval forces also largely depends on the effectiveness of the development of satellite technologies. This is well understood in the United States and, fearing competition from Russia and China, are investing heavily in satellite technology.
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