Orbit’s Tracking, Telemetry Systems Used in SpaceX NASA Test Launch

[Satellite TODAY 02-08-11] Orbit Communication Systems, a satellite communications, tracking antennas, and airborne communications-management systems provider, has implemented two of its advanced tracking and telemetry systems as part of SpaceX’s participation in NASA’s Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) program, Orbit announced Feb. 7.
    Orbit’s 1.8-meter AL-4016 ship-stabilized telemetry tracking and its AL-4000 tracking antenna control unit were used by SpaceX during its launch of a Falcon-9 launch vehicle with a Dragon spacecraft in December.
   Orbit also was chosen by SpaceX in June to deliver customized software to answer the precise needs of and provide 24/7 support for the launcher’s Falcon-9 test launch.
   “Our technology provides the optimal answer for tracking antennas and reception of real time telemetry data from in-flight systems, successfully meeting the challenges of severe weather and operational conditions,” Orbit CEO Israel Adan said in a statement.