Telesat Picks Integral Systems for SkyTerra Satellite Command and Control

24 June 2009

Integral Systems, Inc., announced a contract with Telesat under which Integral will provide its  Integrated Product Suite (IPS) of satellite command and control software to support the SkyTerra1 and SkyTerra2 satellites under construction by Boeing. With this contract, Telesat adds to an existing control system currently supporting nine satellites it owns and operates.

In addition to providing command and control software for SkyTerra satellites, Integral Systems is implementing a complete set of executable operating procedures for the satellite bus based on Boeing's Recommended Operating Procedures. These automated procedures are implemented using Integral Systems' Automated Real-Time Execution Suite (ARES) procedure platform that delivers the capability to rapidly develop and execute complex spacecraft command procedures.

Telesat's experienced operations staff will develop payload procedures and perform validation of the bus and payload procedures to ensure operational readiness. Telesat will assume operational control of the SkyTerra satellites at completion of in-orbit testing.

"Telesat is an industry leader in satellite services and space operations and we are pleased to build on the 13 year partnership between our two companies by providing both the ground system and executable ARES satellite procedures for SkyTerra's satellites," said Mark Schmitt, Vice President, Integral Systems American Operations.

"The existing capability of EPOCH IPS to Boeing 702 satellite operations is unrivaled. Integral's technical capability to support development of satellite bus operating procedures and custom interfaces to the SkyTerra ground systems combined with Telesat's operational expertise to develop the payload procedures and to perform system validation will allow Telesat to provide a reliable and cost effective solution for SkyTerra," said Ken Skublics, Director of Space Programs and Operations at Telesat.