The U.S. Office of Space Commerce (OSC) has officially transitioned spaceflight safety services from the U.S. Space Command (USSPACECOM) to its new Traffic Coordination System for Space (TraCSS), which began operations on September 30. This development marks a significant advancement in space traffic management, aimed at improving safety for satellite operators.
During its initial phase, TraCSS will utilize USSPACECOM's data to generate and share space traffic safety alerts, known as conjunction data messages, with a select group of satellite owners and operators. USSPACECOM will continue to provide its existing Space Situational Awareness (SSA) data and services, ensuring uninterrupted operations during this transition.
Richard Dalbello, director of NOAA's Office of Space Commerce, emphasized that TraCSS represents a modern approach to spaceflight safety, integrating advanced technologies and allowing for continuous improvements. As TraCSS evolves, it will incorporate more data and add new capabilities, while USSPACECOM maintains its focus on national security and the authoritative space catalog.
This transition is part of a broader effort outlined in Space Policy Directive-3 (2018), which emphasizes the Department of Defense's role in safeguarding access to space while the Department of Commerce leads civil efforts in providing basic SSA data and space traffic coordination services. Gen. Stephen Whiting, commander of USSPACECOM, highlighted that this step is a significant milestone in ensuring spaceflight safety for all operators.
As global space activities expand across commercial, military, and civil sectors, the collaboration between OSC and the Department of Defense signifies a commitment to enhancing safety in the increasingly crowded space environment.