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Satellite Operations

Satellite Operating Services

Telesat has successfully operated the Anik satellites, including spin- and three-axis stabilized types, since 1972. The Company has simultaneously managed multiple satellites and satellite generations, including satellites in normal operating assignments, collocated satellites, inclined-orbit satellites and satellites in storage orbits.

Over the years, Telesat has been active in providing operations support to other satellite operators who wanted to minimize the investment in satellite control equipment and staff. Operations support can consist of full-up satellite control support and/or emergency back-up services. Such services have been provided to:

  • XM Satellite Radio Inc.
  • Mobile Satellite Ventures
  • DirecTV
  • Paracomsat (Argentina)
  • ARABSAT
  • WildBlue
Telesat's Satellite Control Center (SCC), located at its headquarters near Ottawa, is manned by satellite control technicians (satellite controllers) around the clock and is the main facility for both on-station and launch mission operations. This ability to assume different responsibilities on short notice is due to the versatility and ease of operations of Telesat's satellite control system. This dual role capability can also be brought into play very quickly to deal with satellite emergencies.

Telesat's satellite controllers are all engineering technologists who have undergone extensive training by Telesat. Several satellite controllers have in excess of twenty (20) years of operations' experience and exposure to Telesat's various satellites and methods of operating.

Day-to-day satellite operations requires expertise from all areas of Telesat's Space Systems Department. The Satellite Operations Division provides the day-to-day satellite monitoring and control to detect any anomalies that may occur and provide a rapid response. The Flight Dynamics Division provides satellite orbit and attitude determination and maneuver planning. The Satellite Ground Systems Division is responsible for the design and implementation of all TT&C earth stations and maintenance of Telesat's satellite control software (real-time software). The Satellite Engineering Group is responsible for monitoring satellite performance trends, performing regular in-orbit testing and taking initial action in resolving operating anomalies.

Telesat's satellite control system currently has the capability to operate the following types of satellites:

  • BSS 601
  • BSS 702
  • A2100
  • FS 1300
  • E3000

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