GA-EMS to Demonstrate OCTs for Space-to-Space Communications

The Space Development Agency has awarded General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems a contract to demonstrate its optical communication terminals for the agency.

GA-EMS is working on two OCTs for space-to-space communications in degraded environments. The terminals, designed to meet SDA standards and requirements, support satellite networks, data and information sharing and collective on-orbit computing for various missions.

The terminals will be integrated on two GA-75 spacecraft, a modular and configurable half-Evolved Secondary Payload Adapter bus designed for ISR and communications equipment and missions. The GA-75s will be deployed to low-Earth orbit for the demonstration, General Atomics said.

Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS, said the contract supports the deployment of next-generation optical communications technologies and enables faster, more secure and more resilient space-to-Earth connectivity.

The demo contract comes after the SDA awarded GA-EMS a $14.2 million deal in October to deliver two OCTs by December 2024.

GA-EMS is also working on another satellite that can provide situational awareness and position, navigation and timing functions under the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory’s Oracle program. As a subcontractor, Forney said the company will integrate the GA-500 satellite bus into a space optical payload from Leidos powered by a novel propulsion system developed by the AFRL.