Viasat’s Real-Time Earth network has antenna installations like this one in place around the globe. Photo: Viasat

NASA selected Viasat for the Near Space Network (NSN) Services contract, to provide global ground segment support services to NASA missions, Viasat announced Jan. 21.

Viasat plans to support NASA communications with its global Viasat Real-Time Earth (RTE) ground-segment-as-a-service network, partnering with ATLAS Space Operations and the Alaska Satellite Facility to deliver satellite-to-ground network solutions. Viasat said the integrated RT network capability will offer ground advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud-based optimization.

Viasat’s vice president and general manager of Antenna Systems, Kent Leka, commented: “Through our work with ATLAS Space Operations and the Alaska Satellite Facility, NASA will gain access to a cutting-edge communications solution that improves performance, significantly increases efficiencies over legacy systems, and provides a more cost-effective service for delivering mission data.”

Viasat was one of four commercial companies NASA announced in December that will receive task order awards, under the five-year multi-award Near Space Network (NSN) Services contract, at a total cumulative value of $4.82 billion. The other companies include Intuitive Machines, Kongsberg Satellite Services of Tromoso and SSC Space U.S. Inc.

Viasat did not share the value of its NASA task order.