Print Recently, CentiSpace-1-S3/S4 test satellites were launch by Kuaizhou-1A carrier rocket from Jiuquan Satellite launch Center and entered the planned orbit. The satellite Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TT&C) system developed by researhers from National Time Service Center (NTSC) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) helps to complete the TT&C tasks during the launch and in orbit test.
These two satellites are the third and fourth test satellites of the CentiSpace Low-Orbit Satellite Navigation Augmentation System which is a space-ground integrated constellation system composed of 160 low-orbit satellites and ground systems, enhancing the performance of Beidou and other satellite navigation systems.
"Before entering its predetermined orbit, the satellite will circle the Earth three times. During this time, the satellite needs to contact with the ground," said Dr. WANG from NTSC.
Using NTSC’s 5m antenna in Xi’an National Aerospace Industry Base, researchers provide key instructions and feedback related information for satellite operation through TT&C system.
"The complement of the measurement and control tasks during the launch and in orbit test, marks TT&C system developed by NTSC has the ability to provide measurement and control service for LEO satellites," said Prof. YANG Xuhai, leader of this research team.
According to Prof. Yang, The research team will carry out normalized and routine observations of CentiSpace-1-S3/S4 test satellites. At the same time, they will also provide stable TT&C support for the last two test satellites S5/S6 and subsequent network launch missions.
NTSC’s 5m antenna in Xi’an National Aerospace Industry Base