York Space Systems details Space Force task orders for data network

York Space Systems has disclosed technical details regarding two previously awarded U.S. Space Force task orders aimed at supporting the Space Data Network (SDN). The work focuses on ensuring interoperability between various suppliers, spacecraft, payloads, and ground equipment to allow for seamless data exchange through agreed-upon interfaces.

Delivery Order 2 involves a multi-vendor interoperability demonstration with the SDN-Backbone constellation, evaluating technical methods to interconnect spacecraft and ground elements across multiple data-exchange pathways. Delivery Order 3 covers Phase A planning for a potential Space Exchange Point on-orbit demonstration, which includes defining standardized interfaces between spacecraft platforms and their payloads.

The SDN is intended to provide an integrated, optically interconnected data transport layer for the Department of Defense using commercially derived technology. This work follows the Space Force’s selection of SpaceX to develop the foundational backbone for the network on its Starshield platform.