Energy News
FLOATING STEEL
AUKUS expands reach into space with Northrop Grumman's DARC System
The Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability developed by Northrop Grumman represents a different approach in space surveillance, harnessing the collective strengths of the AUKUS nations. This initiative is not just a step forward in technological advancement but also a significant stride in international cooperation for space security and defense. Artist Rendering (Credit: Northrop Grumman)
AUKUS expands reach into space with Northrop Grumman's DARC System
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jan 12, 2024

In a significant development for space domain awareness, Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) is spearheading the creation of the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC). This novel system is designed to enhance the tracking of objects in geosynchronous orbit, a vital region for communication, weather, and surveillance satellites integral to U.S. and allied interests.

DARC stands as a testament to the growing importance of space in national and global security dialogues. By focusing on geosynchronous orbit, Northrop Grumman addresses a critical need in space surveillance. This orbit, approximately 35,786 kilometers above the Earth's equator, is strategically significant due to the constant overhead presence of satellites it offers to specific earth locations.

The introduction of DARC marks a fresh chapter in the AUKUS partnership, involving the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom. This trilateral security pact, initially focused on the Indo-Pacific region, is now expanding its purview to include space domain awareness. The collaboration for DARC emphasizes a shared commitment to leveraging collective resources and expertise.

The Memorandum of Understanding signed by leaders from the three AUKUS nations underlines their commitment to hosting and operating DARC. This collaboration is a clear move to extend capabilities beyond what individual nations could achieve alone in one of the most critical domains for future security.

Northrop Grumman's approach to DARC employs highly advanced technology. The system will operate continuously, providing 24/7 coverage in all weather conditions. This capability is essential for maintaining uninterrupted monitoring and tracking of objects in geosynchronous orbit. DARC is set to fill critical gaps in the ground-based element of the space domain awareness architecture enterprise, offering a significant advantage in monitoring space activities.

The global network of DARC comprises three advanced ground-based sensors. These sensors, distributed in strategic locations across the AUKUS countries, will work in unison to provide comprehensive coverage and tracking accuracy. This global distribution not only enhances the system's effectiveness but also demonstrates the strategic cooperation among the AUKUS nations.

Northrop Grumman's role in this project underscores the company's position as a leader in aerospace and defense technology. By developing DARC, Northrop Grumman continues its tradition of delivering cutting-edge solutions for complex challenges in defense and space exploration.

As the world becomes increasingly reliant on space-based technologies for communication, navigation, and surveillance, the importance of space domain awareness grows correspondingly. Initiatives like DARC are vital for ensuring the security and functionality of these crucial assets. With the operationalization of DARC, the AUKUS partnership not only reinforces its commitment to shared security interests but also sets a new standard in collaborative space domain management.

Related Links
Northrop Grumman
Naval Warfare in the 21st Century

Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters
Tweet

RELATED CONTENT
The following news reports may link to other Space Media Network websites.
FLOATING STEEL
Putin unveils two new nuclear submarines
Moscow (AFP) Dec 11, 2023
Russian President Vladimir Putin Monday promised to reinforce Russia's "military-naval might" as he attended the inauguration of two nuclear submarines in the country's Far North. The Russian leader took part in a flag-hoisting ceremony in Severodvinsk on the White Sea where the "Krasnoyarsk" and "Emperor Alexander III" were built over the past six years. "With such ships and such weapons, Russia will feel that it is safe," Putin told navy officers, while visiting one of the submarines in the f ... read more

FLOATING STEEL
Trade barriers can slow energy transition: IEA chief

EU debates 2040 milestone towards carbon-neutral future

US reduces emissions in 2023 - but not fast enough: report

Private sector funding key to climate transition, World Bank chief says

FLOATING STEEL
Using idle trucks to power the grid with clean energy

Dirt-powered fuel cell runs forever

Smooth operation of future nuclear fusion facilities is a matter of control

Study reveals a reaction at the heart of many renewable energy technologies

FLOATING STEEL
Leaf-shaped generators create electricity from the wind and rain

Danish firm to build huge wind farm off UK

UK unveils massive news windfarm investment by UAE, German firms

Wind and solar projects can profit from bitcoin mining

FLOATING STEEL
Pentagon to get rooftop solar panels in clean energy drive

Solar energy surges ahead, set to eclipse hydro, nuclear, and wind capacities

Insect populations flourish in the restored habitats of solar energy facilities

Gigantic solar farms may impact how much solar power can be generated elsewhere

FLOATING STEEL
Innovative use of antineutrinos in monitoring nuclear reactors for non-proliferation

Uranium Energy Corp to Resume Uranium Production in Wyoming's Powder River Basin

UK unveils plans for 'biggest nuclear power expansion in 70 years'

Jeumont Electric joins forces with Framatome and Naval Group

FLOATING STEEL
Researchers create light-powered yeast, providing insights into evolution, biofuels, cellular aging

Nigerians look to biofuel as cost of cooking gas soars

Chinese company gives leftover hotpot oil second life as jet fuel

Cheap and efficient ethanol catalyst from laser-melted nanoparticles

FLOATING STEEL
Seismic and infrasonic signals used to characterize Nord Stream pipeline events

Treasury Department sanctions ex-Guatemalan energy minister

MIT researchers outline a path for scaling clean hydrogen production

Norway awards 62 new oil, gas licences, angering NGOs

FLOATING STEEL
Kerry says to work on climate after exiting envoy role

Portugal to curb water use in south as drought bites

New UN climate chief wants more action on greenhouse gas

2023's record heat partly driven by 'mystery' process: NASA scientist

Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters




The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2024 - Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principals for news reporting and research purposes. AFP, UPI and IANS news wire stories are copyright Agence France-Presse, United Press International and Indo-Asia News Service. ESA news reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. All articles labeled "by Staff Writers" include reports supplied to Space Media Network by industry news wires, PR agencies, corporate press officers and the like. Such articles are individually curated and edited by Space Media Network staff on the basis of the report's information value to our industry and professional readership. Advertising does not imply endorsement, agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Statement Our advertisers use various cookies and the like to deliver the best ad banner available at one time. All network advertising suppliers have GDPR policies (Legitimate Interest) that conform with EU regulations for data collection. By using our websites you consent to cookie based advertising. If you do not agree with this then you must stop using the websites from May 25, 2018. Privacy Statement. Additional information can be found here at About Us.