Northrop Grumman and USSF Space Systems Command have successfully completed a DARC demonstration. The demonstration was conducted at DARC Site 1 in Western Australia. It showcased the integration of multiple ground-based antennas to operate as a single system for the first time. This marks another step toward delivering what is set to become the world’s MOST capable deep-space radar tracking system.
Multi-Antenna Integration for Precision Tracking
DARC’s calibrated antenna arrays tracked and characterized the movement of multiple satellites. This proves the effectiveness of its precision radar technology. The event showcased the system’s ability to detect and monitor spacecraft that could pose threats to U.S. and allied space assets.
During the trials, the team utilized seven of the site’s planned 27 antennas. Thus, sustaining a multi-week campaign of data collection, analysis, and calibration adjustments. This work confirmed the system’s operational readiness ahead of the site’s full build-out.
Global Space Domain Awareness Capability
DARC is a collaboration between the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. It will provide all-weather, around-the-clock coverage of objects in geosynchronous orbit (GEO). This is an area critical to both military and commercial satellite operations. Unlike optical telescopes, DARC’s radar technology can operate 24/7. It is unaffected by daylight or cloud cover.
Once fully operational, DARC will deliver unmatched precision in tracking objects moving to, from, and within GEO. GEO is a region over 22,000 miles above Earth. It has a unique architecture of multiple antennas that will function as one. Therefore, enhancing global space domain awareness and support threat detection and mitigation.
Strategic Impact
“Northrop Grumman’s DARC will provide a strategic advantage at a scale never before achieved in global space domain awareness,” said Kevin Giammo. Kevin is the Director of Space Surveillance and Environmental Intelligence at Northrop Grumman. “Its ability to track multiple small moving objects over 22,000 miles above Earth will offer unmatched capability. It is the world’s premier deep-space radar tracking system.”
Path to Full Capability
Site 1’s success is a key step toward the program’s global rollout. It will see a network of DARC sites providing comprehensive coverage for U.S. Space Command. The system is expected to play a critical role in maintaining security in deep space. Therefore, it will ensure the protection of vital satellite infrastructure.
Javeria Sajid is an Aerospace Engineering student from NUST with a background in technology and a sharp focus on the global political landscape and defence innovation. She writes to make complex defence technologies understandable, and aspires to bridge journalism, policy, and engineering in her work.
