TRACKS can provide a rapidly deployable platform that can extend coverage of existing telecommunication infrastructure or replace them in times of calamity. When deployed TRACKS can quickly enlarge the telephony and internet services of a given area including the rural areas of developing countries.
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The prototype (image right) includes an easily deployable VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) providing the satellite link in Ku band at 512 Kbps. This is sufficient for access to the Internet, a GSM Mobile Switch Centre (MSC) or directly to the Public Switch Telephone Network (PSTN). The 12 metre high mast is equipped with an omni-directional GSM antenna. TRACKS also carries its own power generator, a PC for internet access, a micro GSM system with micro MSC as well as a Base Station Controller and Base Transceiver Station equipped with up to 6 transceivers. |
The platform is a two-person van weighing less than 3.5 tons. TRACKS can be fully operational in about one hour. This includes time required to start the power generator, deploy the mast and VSAT antenna deployment, as well as pointing of the antenna establishing two links, one to a satellite and the other to a GSM network.
A field trial was successfully completed on 19 October 2005, at Cahors Airport north of Toulouse France and the platform performed as expected. The basic concept was achieved with different candidate customers validating the concept.
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The field trial was attended by (image left) representatives from SFR, a French GSM Network operator; UNOSAT, a United Nations initiative to provide the humanitarian community with access to satellite imagery and Geographic Information System services; SDIS 46, a French Civil Security department; and Conseil Régional de Corrèze, a French Territory Administration service. |
Mr Hilarion Raobadia from EADS Astrium and Project Manager for TRACKS was pleased with the support EADS Astrium received from ESA. "TRACKS will form part of EADS Astrium's business plan in both the export market and in the domain of security applications. We furthermore expect sales of satellite communication network products to terrestrial telecom operators," he explained.
Mr Stefano Badessi of ESA Telcom pointed out: "TRACKS is a demonstration of not only ESA's commitment to industry but also users. As a product, TRACKS is oriented not just to Telecom Operators but also to Civil Protection agencies and police which can potentially employ TRACKS for security applications, especially in situations requiring crisis management in areas where terrestrial infrastructures are either lacking or temporarily damaged by a disaster. Use of GSM makes TRACKS interoperable with other systems and is line with our endeavour that such projects must be user driven."
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"EADS Astrium plans to target telecom operators in Africa, the Middle East and Russia, where TRACKS would be a highly suitable solution. It can provide telecom coverage and services in remote rural areas with a low initial investment and it can do this quickly," added Mr Raobadia. |
EADS Astrium made a Final Presentation for the ESA supported project TRACKS at ESA/ESTEC on 9 December 2005.
To read more about TRACKS and ESA initiatives in Disaster Relief and Emergency Management click under related links at the top-right of this page.
All images EADS Astrium
