Two Electrons on the launch pad of Launch Complex 1 in February 2022. Photo: Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab works with Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT) for a new global ground station service for Rocket Lab’s launch customers.

KSAT is currently the sole provider of ground station services for Rocket Lab’s missions. In anticipation of the first launch of Rocket Lab’s next rocket, Neutron, and missions for Varda Space Industries that will return to Earth, Rocket Lab is working with KSAT to develop a new satellite communications service to meet the needs of these future missions.

The enhanced satellite communications service now available to KSAT and Rocket Lab customers includes unique antenna tracking capabilities for complex mission designs across a global ground station network of more than 200 antennas. This includes real-time telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C), advanced monitoring, control and data acquisition capabilities in S-band, X-band and Ka-band, and automated ground station planning for satellite overflights.

KSAT said the service will provide initial customers with seamless and reliable communications.

“This enhanced satellite communications service for Electron and Neutron launches and between our various spacecraft streamlines our customers’ missions and simplifies their access to space. Satellite operators can outsource their satellite operations and satellite communications to us, allowing them to focus on their respective missions rather than having to build and operate their own ground station infrastructure,” commented Richard French, Rocket Lab’s Vice President of Business Development and Strategy.