Overview
With plans to launch and operate a growing constellation of satellites to pioneer next-generation maritime communications using VDES (VHF Data Exchange System) technology, LusoSpace required a mission control system that could be rapidly deployed for their first satellite and scale easily as the programme expands. Operating on a tight development timeline of under 12 months, the team needed a reliable, easy-to-integrate solution that would be operational in time for launch — and robust enough to support up to 12 spacecraft in future.
Bright Ascension’s Mission Control System (MCS) was selected for its compatibility with LusoSpace’s onboard software (FSDK), ease of use, and scalability. The system was deployed quickly and successfully, enabling smooth operations from day one and laying the foundations for constellation management.
Challeges
LusoSpace faced the challenge of deploying and integrating its first mission control system in less than one year — a fast-paced schedule that required a short learning curve and minimal implementation risk.
In parallel, the system needed to:
Support operations for a single satellite initially, and later scale to manage 12-satellite constellation.
Integrate seamlessly with onboard software developed through a Bright Ascension’s product.
Be easy to deploy and operate within LusoSpace’s IT environment.
Offer operational efficiency without complex setup or training.
Solutions
Rapid development
MCS was chosen for its ability to be rapidly deployed and operational within a compressed timeframe. With less than one year to integrate and deploy their first satellite, LusoSpace needed a solution that would not only install quickly but also require minimal onboarding and training time. “The time to have the system running was significantly improved.” MCS enabled the LusoSpace team to get up and running in time for launch, accelerating their route to operations without compromising on reliability or performance.
Responsive support
Throughout the implementation, Bright Ascension’s support team provided consistent and responsive assistance. The LusoSpace team experienced a smooth integration process and felt confident navigating the system from early deployment through to operational use. “Bright Ascension’s support team was quick to answer our questions. Having the system work was not complex.” The close communication with the engineers helped to resolve queries quickly and ensured a streamlined entry phase into operations.
Seamless integration
MCS offered seamless integration with the onboard software, which had also been developed using Bright Ascension’s products. This tight compatibility reduced integration complexity and enabled a smooth data and operations flow across the mission stack. “On our constellation project genesis, it was impossible to do it without Bright Ascension and, in specific, its Mission Control System.” The architecture also allows for detailed control and monitoring of subsystem behaviour, giving engineers the flexibility to work at both granular and system-wide levels.
Ease of use
Designed for both single and multi-satellite operations, the MCS provided an intuitive user experience that matched LusoSpace’s operational needs. The interface made day-to-day activities straightforward while also supporting longer-term scaling as the constellation expands to 12 satellites. “Bright Ascension’s products allow us to work on minute characteristics of our subsystems or take a more holistic view — and even automate tasks when needed.” The ease of use and ability to layer complexity only when needed meant LusoSpace could focus on mission performance without being slowed down by tooling overhead.
Outcome
LusoSpace successfully deployed its mission control system ahead of schedule, enabling smooth and reliable operations for its first satellite. With MCS in place, the company is now positioned to scale operations across its 12-satellite constellation.
Key outcomes included:
Fast implementation: Accelerated time-to-operation, meeting tight launch deadlines.
Smooth integration: Streamlined integration and configuration using Bright Ascension’s software stack.
Operational scalability: Scalable system architecture ready to support future constellation growth.
Exceptional support: Positive experience with implementation and ongoing support.