Commanding BIROS satellite from external
The Responsive Space Cluster Competence Center (RSC³) of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) is preparing for an important test that could have a significant impact on the potential of future satellite mission control. The test will focus on the BIROS small satellite, a compact Earth observation satellite operated by DLR. The test uses the V3C system ("Deployable Compact Control Center"), which enables flexible and robust control of satellites.
Background to the V3C system
The V3C system developed by DLR was originally designed as a mobile and self-sufficient control center that can be operated on commercially available laptops. It is designed to control satellites quickly and efficiently - even in scenarios with minimal ground infrastructure. V3C offers a comprehensive solution for mission planning, monitoring and control, flight dynamics and payload data processing and is particularly suitable for applications such as earth observation missions.
In close cooperation with Aachen University of Applied Sciences, the existing V3C system is being further developed in order to adapt quickly to the rapidly changing parameters of today's missions. An important step in this development was the implementation of cloud capability and porting to a type 1 hypervisor, so that the V3C system can now be operated in multiple instances that are strictly separated from each other in terms of network technology, which means a significant improvement in performance, scalability and security. In contrast to previous versions, which were based on a type 2 hypervisor, the new architecture enables direct use of the hardware and more efficient resource management.
Technical execution of the test
The upcoming test will demonstrate how the cloud-enabled V3C system controls the BIROS satellite. The system will be operated outside the traditional DLR/GSOC network. A secure connection will be established between the V3C system at the FH Aachen Space Operations Facility (FHASOF) and the DLR ground station in Weilheim (WHM). This connection is realized via two SINA L3 boxes from Secunet Security Networks AG, which use highly secure IPsec VPN tunnels for encrypted data transmission.
The test comprises various key operations, including
- Satellite control: control of the BIROS satellite in real time.
- Telemetric monitoring: real-time monitoring of satellite parameters and systems.
- Payload data processing: Processing and analysis of earth observation data from the BIROS satellite.
The aim of the test is to validate the ability of the V3C system to perform satellite operations safely and reliably in a cloud-based environment. A particular focus is on demonstrating the robustness and flexibility of the system by showing that it is possible to control a satellite without a physical control center. This is particularly important in disaster situations or for security-relevant missions.
Significance for the future of satellite mission control
With the further development of the V3C system, the RSC³ aims to make a decisive contribution to the satellite mission control of the future. By integrating cloud-based technologies and mobile control solutions, it will be possible to reduce the heavy dependence on stationary control centers. Instead, a solution will be created that is mobile, scalable and highly resilient.
The test with the BIROS satellite marks an important milestone in the development of the V3C system and demonstrates the close networking of the RSC³ with commercial partners, DLR institutes and academia. The use of the V3C system will not only increase the flexibility of mission control, but also strengthen GSOC/DLR's ability to react quickly and efficiently to unforeseen events or emergencies.
The test is scheduled for early 2025 and we look forward to the results of this exciting project. The RSC³ will continue to develop innovative solutions for space utilization and sustainably improve the resilience of space missions.