Unlike traditional fixed satellite systems, Airbus’ OneSat platform enables dynamic, in-orbit reconfiguration, allowing operators to instantly reshape coverage and reconfigure missions. While this capability significantly enhances mission flexibility, it also introduces greater complexity for the ground systems responsible for satellite control.

 

To address these requirements, Kratos introduced new capabilities in a recent release of its EPOCH C2 software. The enhancements support OneSat’s highly dynamic configurations, frequent updates and increased onboard autonomy associated with software-defined spacecraft.

 

Maurizio Scotta, President of Kratos Communications, said the successful milestone reflects close collaboration between the two companies in advancing software-defined space capabilities. He noted that the flexibility of the EPOCH command and control system, combined with the experience of Kratos personnel, enables Airbus to unlock the full potential of the OneSat platform, delivering greater flexibility, faster reconfiguration and smarter operations for customers.

 

The factory acceptance test demonstrated full compatibility between the EPOCH C2 system and the OneSat platform. Kratos and Airbus engineers verified that the EPOCH hardware and software functioned as designed, could communicate with a simulated satellite, and met all safety and redundancy requirements. Following the successful testing of all mission scenarios, the system was accepted by Airbus, confirming its readiness for delivery and operational use.

 

Elodie Viau, Senior Vice President of Telecommunication and Navigation for Airbus Defence and Space, said the achievement provides full confidence in the reliability and performance of the EPOCH system that will operate Airbus satellites in orbit. She described the milestone as an important step forward as Airbus prepares for launch and continues delivering innovative software-defined satellites to customers.

 

Kratos has supplied satellite command and control systems to the industry for more than 20 years. The completion of this factory acceptance test highlights the company’s continued advancement of ground systems to support software-defined satellites. Beyond command and control, Kratos has also developed advanced ground capabilities for traffic planning, resource orchestration and performance monitoring tailored to the evolving needs of software-defined satellite operations.