Space Force’s Advanced Tracking and Launch Analysis System (ATLAS): A New Era in Space Monitoring
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — After enduring years of setbacks and technical obstacles, the U.S. Space Force is poised to bring its Advanced Tracking and Launch Analysis System (ATLAS) to operational capability by the end of 2025. This ambitious project, being developed by L3Harris, represents a vital step forward in modernizing outdated systems currently used to monitor satellites, spacecraft, and myriad other objects in orbit.
The Dawn of a New System
ATLAS is integral to the Pentagon’s initiative to replace the antiquated Space Defense Operations Center (SPADOC) computer system, which dates back to the 1980s. As Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant, head of Space Systems Command (SSC), recently mentioned during a media briefing at the annual Space Symposium, “ATLAS is going very well; we expect to go into operational acceptance testing this year.” This transition signals a significant shift in how the Space Force manages space domain awareness, command and control, and intelligence.
Why ATLAS Matters
The modern military operates in a landscape where space plays a critical role in national security. ATLAS aims to integrate and disseminate diverse data types seamlessly. Automation capabilities within the system are designed to provide operators with a comprehensive and real-time understanding of the space landscape, which can be crucial for national defense. This effort is a part of a broader Space Command and Control initiative that seeks to address the limitations of the previously attempted Joint Space Operations Center Mission System (JMS), which failed to meet expectations in 2018.
Challenges Along the Way
Despite its promising potential, the ATLAS program has faced scrutiny and criticism, regarded by former space acquisition lead Frank Calvelli as one of the most troubled initiatives within the Space Force. Initially set to be operational by 2022, delays stemming from software integration difficulties and an insufficient number of trained operators pushed back its timeline. Consequently, the dismantling of SPADOC remained on hold as challenges mounted.
In addition to these setbacks, ATLAS has encountered several critical issues categorized as Category 1 deficiencies, which pose serious risks, alongside less critical Category 2 deficiencies. To remedy these problems, the program was strategically shifted from SSC to Mission Delta 2-Space Domain Awareness, an integrated unit under Space Operations Command (SpOC). This reorganization synergizes personnel, training, and acquisition processes, ultimately aiming to foster a more robust communication loop between developers and operators.
Building Collaborative Bridges
This shift in organizational structure has already shown promising results, according to Garrant. He noted how it has allowed personnel to better grasp the complexities of the ATLAS system, thereby boosting the urgency of developers to meet deadlines. “The connective tissue with the operators and getting them early time on the system…that’s probably the biggest success we’ve seen,” he highlighted.
The fruitful collaboration between L3Harris and Space Force operators has been groundbreaking. In addition to the shift in management, L3Harris has embraced an agile development cycle, adapting swiftly to feedback and ensuring the requirements evolve alongside emerging threats. Charles Clarkson, vice president and general manager for L3Harris’ space superiority and imaging division, emphasized this commitment to ongoing collaboration: “It’s all about creating closeness to the mission, and then being able to incorporate those requirements to keep pace with the threat.”
Testing the Waters
To prepare for initial operational capability, SpOC has initiated quarterly capability integration tests (SCITs). These tests facilitate collaborative analysis of ATLAS among test squadrons, space operators, and L3Harris, enhancing the platform’s capabilities incrementally. The tenth SCIT was recently completed in March, marking significant progress.
Clarkson articulated the dual-testing approach that L3Harris adopts: “We test it in a development environment, and then we also test it in an operational environment, with the operators being able to provide real-time feedback to the software development team.” This process ensures that necessary adjustments are made to keep ATLAS relevant and effective.
Financial Backing and Future Potential
L3Harris secured a $53 million indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract for the development of ATLAS back in 2018, followed by various extensions, including a significant $90 million contract aimed at achieving software stability and operational readiness. This financial backing not only facilitates the completion of the project but also affords opportunities for enhancements that will benefit operators and warfighters alike.
Clarkson noted that, despite past delays, the scope of ATLAS remains intact, without having to reduce any promised capabilities. He stated, “It’s also looking at then, how do we build on [and] augment capability on top of that foundational layer.” This forward-looking strategy underscores L3Harris’ commitment to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving space environment.
The Path Forward
The Space Force’s commitment to refining ATLAS, despite the roadblocks encountered along the way, showcases a dedication to operational excellence and national defense readiness. With the final phases of development and testing on the horizon, ATLAS stands as a testament to the agency’s resilience and innovation in adapting to the complexities of modern-day space operations. As industry experts look at ATLAS and its eventuality, it is clear that the system could redefine how the U.S. navigates the challenges of an increasingly congested and contested space domain.
Written by Mikayla Easley
Mikayla Easley reports on the Pentagon’s acquisition and use of emerging technologies. Prior to joining DefenseScoop, she covered national security and the defense industry for National Defense Magazine. She received a BA in Russian language and literature from the University of Michigan and a MA in journalism from the University of Missouri. You can follow her on Twitter @MikaylaEasley.
