Atlas Space Operations activates a 9.3M S- and X-band antenna in Rwanda. Photo: Atlas Space Operations

Atlas Space Operations has increased its global ground network by activating a new antenna in Mwulire, Rwanda. The ground station as a service (GSaaS) provider, says the expansion will improve the COSMIC-2 satellite’s ability to collect and provide critical data to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for global weather and space weather monitoring. The company announced the newly activated 9.3 meter S- and X-band antenna on July 16.

The Rwanda ground station receives data from six COSMIC-2 satellites, which measure the Earth’s atmosphere and ionosphere using radio occultation. The data collected by these spacecraft are used for accurate weather and space weather forecasting. Atlas maintains a requirement to deliver this data from its ground stations to NOAA in under 60 seconds.

This new site in Rwanda complements existing ground stations in Ghana and Tahiti, also supporting the COSMIC-2 mission. Atlas said that Rwanda’s geographic location is ideal for contacts with the COSMIC-2 constellation. NOAA requested this site when it became available and ATLAS was able to offer this location through a partnership with the Rwanda Space Agency.

“The activation of our new antenna in Rwanda is a testament to the strength of our partnership with the Rwanda Space Agency and commitment to growing our network to best serve our customers. This strategic addition significantly enhances our ability to deliver critical COSMIC-2 data, ensuring that NOAA receives the vital information they need for accurate and timely atmospheric and ionospheric monitoring,” Corey Geer, CEO of Atlas Space Operations, said in a statement.