America's Space Launch Ranges Get Long-Overdue Digital Upgrade

The age of fax machines and outdated software is finally ending for America's space launch ranges on both the East and West Coasts. A much-needed digital transformation is underway, aiming to modernize these critical facilities for the 21st century's booming space industry.

The initiative, known as Digital Transformation, Acquisition, Modernization and Modification (DTAMM), is being spearheaded by the Space Systems Command's Assured Access to Space program office. They recognize the urgency of the upgrade, particularly as commercial space companies like SpaceX rapidly increase launch frequency.

"Triple-digit launches" are a future possibility, according to Maj. Jason Lowry, deputy director of technology and innovation at the program office. He emphasizes that the current legacy IT systems are simply not equipped to handle such a high operational tempo.

The contract for DTAMM has been awarded to SAIC, a major technology and engineering firm. Their focus will be on completely overhauling the launch ranges' outdated infrastructure. This includes everything from instrumentation and telemetry processing to weather monitoring systems.

"This digital overhaul is really about helping the Space Force accelerate growth and meet the needs of both government and commercial space launch," said David Ray, executive vice president of SAIC. A key component of the project is integrating the currently isolated IT systems of the Eastern and Western ranges into a single, cohesive network.

This digital revolution promises a smoother and more efficient launch experience for all stakeholders. Faster data processing, improved communication capabilities, and real-time information sharing are just some of the anticipated benefits. The overall goal is to create a more robust and adaptable space launch infrastructure capable of supporting the ever-evolving needs of the American space program.