The team is responsible for the reception systems, signal paths, modems, and the necessary server systems required for the smooth operation of the facilities. Key areas of responsibility include not only the operation and continuous development of these systems but also fulfilling the tasks of the ground segment in the planning and execution of satellite projects. Another focus is the development and operation of monitoring systems for the ground segment. Specifically, the responsibilities include:
Systems engineering, system integration, validation, and verification of the ground segment in satellite projects to ensure that all systems work seamlessly together and meet project requirements.
Conducting RF compatibility tests of the space segment for TT&C (Telemetry, Tracking, and Command) and payload data to ensure interference-free communication between satellites and ground stations before launch.
Development and integration of ground segment components, further development and adaptation of existing systems, and implementation of new technologies to enhance the performance and flexibility of the infrastructure.
Ensuring operational readiness, regular maintenance, and administration of reception facilities to guarantee continuous and reliable operation without failures.
Development and operation of monitoring systems that enable continuous monitoring and analysis of the ground segment to ensure rapid fault diagnosis and resolution.
The Neustrelitz ground station, located north of Berlin (53° 19.779'N, 13° 4.247'E), is strategically positioned to receive satellite data from Europe, the North Atlantic, the Baltic Sea, and the northern Mediterranean.
Satellite reception area of the Neustrelitz ground station for Low Earth Orbit satellites.
The reception area depends on the altitude of the respective satellite.
Data Reception: The station receives remote sensing data from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, scientific data from geostationary satellites, and satellites in the Earth-Sun Lagrange system. It also provides TT&C (Telemetry, Tracking & Command) services for LEO and GEO satellites, as well as ranging services for geostationary satellites.
Antenna Systems: The ground station is equipped with five main antenna systems used for both payload data reception and satellite telemetry, tracking, and commanding. It supports communication with both low-flying LEO satellites and geostationary satellites.
Frequency Band Support: The station supports scientific frequency bands, including S-band, X-band, and Ka-band, with uplink capabilities in S-band and X-band.
Modem Technology: Modern modems support all standard modulation schemes, protocols, and data rates.
Redundancy and Reliability: RF and baseband matrices ensure the flexible deployment and interchangeability of all signal chain components, including antenna systems. Redundant devices can be operated in parallel or activated as needed to maximize operational security and reliability. Redundant configurations are available for all missions. The station's infrastructure allows flexible hosting of partner recording systems and integration into reception chains.
Interfaces: Flexible support for custom third-party interfaces for satellite pass scheduling, TT&C connections, and payload data delivery.
Cleanroom: ISO 14644-1 Class 8 cleanroom with dedicated building access for RF compatibility testing of satellite transmission and reception components.
Summary of the key performance features of the satellite reception systems
Operational concept
Multimission system Single-operator support as needed NRT data provision in bit stream, VVCDU, ISP and L0 formats Hosting
Antennas
1x 7.3 m L/S/X down 2x 7,3 m S/X down, S up 2x11,5 m S/X/Ka down, S/X up
Cortex HDR 4G Versatile CCSDS-compatible payload-data demodulator Supports among other features: DVB-S2, SCCC Aggregated Bit Rate: 6.4 Gbps
Front-end processor
In-house development, leading to greater flexibility and rapid adaptation cycles
Infrastructure
Distributed monitoring and control system Redundant time reference system (GPS receiver, IRIG-A/B/..., NTP) High availability cluster system for planning and provisioning services Security fence, 24-hour security guard
