Edwards Air Force Base Integrates Satellite Operations into Curriculum Edwards Air Force Base has launched a groundbreaking initiative by incorporating satellite operations into its curriculum for the first time. The “.Space+Test+Course” is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to operate and maintain satellites in the modern aerospace environment. This innovative course is a testament to Edwards Air Force Base’s commitment to preparing the next generation of aerospace professionals for the challenges of the future. By integrating satellite operations into the curriculum, the base is ensuring that students are equipped with the specialized knowledge and expertise required to meet the growing demands of the space industry. The “.Space+Test+Course” features a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including: * Satellite design and engineering * Satellite operations and maintenance * Satellite communications and telemetry * Space environment effects * Test and evaluation of satellites Students enrolled in the course will have the opportunity to work with real-world satellite systems and participate in hands-on exercises that simulate satellite operations. This practical experience will provide them with invaluable insights and skills that will serve them well in their future careers. The integration of satellite operations into the curriculum at Edwards Air Force Base is a significant step forward for the base and the broader aerospace community. This initiative will not only enhance the education of future aerospace professionals but also support the nation’s long-term leadership in space exploration and satellite technology. The “.Space+Test+Course” is now open for enrollment, and interested individuals are encouraged to apply. By joining this groundbreaking program, students will have the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the rapidly evolving field of space operations.On May 20th, students from the Space Test Course at the US Air Force Test Pilot School successfully operated a satellite in space from Edwards Air Force Base, California, marking a historic first.
On May 20th, students from the Space Test Course at the US Air Force Test Pilot School successfully operated a satellite in space from Edwards Air Force Base, California, marking a historic first. Previously, classes have relied on commercial space providers to acquire satellite imagery, but this time, STC Class 24A students commanded an orbiting satellite directly from Edwards, thanks to a partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Space Vehicle Directorate. The partnership allowed students to test Edwards’ capabilities for remote satellite operations, using cloud-based ground systems. Major Stefanie Coward, Chief Space Test Operations at USAFTPS, explained, “We are working with the AFRL Small Satellite Division to test Edwards’ capabilities for remote satellite operations. Some of their new tech demonstration satellites operate on cloud-based ground systems. This opens the door to remote operations without a large infrastructure footprint.” Four pairs of students completed a total of fifteen satellite contacts under the supervision of an AFRL Flight Director, proving the full capability of remote operations. The XVI satellite used for the operation is nearing the end of its experimental campaign, but its legacy satellite bus suggests it could continue operations for another three to five years. Both organizations are interested in utilizing its remaining capacity. Major Coward expressed optimism about the future of this partnership: “This is a first, but not the last. We are working with AFRL to formalize this partnership and continue to operate XVI with future classes. The plan is to mirror the flight paradigm where TPS personnel formally qualify on a ramp and students go through a check-out process that allows them to conduct operations under the supervision of a certified personnel member.” She added, “Do I ever see STC students going ‘crew solo’ on a satellite? I hope so. But there is still a lot of work to do to get there.”
The 558th Test Evaluation Squadron, part of the 596th Flight Test Group, included satellite operations into its space test course curriculum for the first time in June. Now, the course includes hands-on operations of the Autonomous Nano-Technology Experiment-1 (ANTE-1) satellite. Launched in December 2008, ANTE-1 is an Air Force Research Laboratory microsatellite built by students at Stanford University to test satellite component and architecture technologies. “This integration provides a more comprehensive understanding of the test development process, and will bring in more space operators to the flight test career field,” said Lt. Col. James Kastan, 558th TES commander. The curriculum integration also includes a new ground system at the Edwards Air Force Base satellite control facility. The system handles satellite command, control and telemetry interactions. “Students are now interfacing and controlling an actual satellite as part of their coursework,” Kastan said. The curriculum change accommodates the growing Air Force interest in expanding its space warfare mission. “Incorporating satellite operations into the test course enhances our learning initiatives and our ability to meet the Air Force’s needs in space superiority,” said Maj. Kevin Johnson, 558th TES director of operations. The course provides tactical satellite operators, space operators, engineers, and project managers with the training and education necessary to plan and conduct operational test and evaluation of space systems and components. Graduates of the course earn a Master of Science degree in flight test engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology. “By incorporating satellite operations, the course is adding to our ability to develop and deliver cutting-edge space capabilities to warfighters,” Kastan said.
