Mission Control: Flying Satellites with Optus
Trish Tatel, a certified satellite controller Optus Satellite & Space Systems, explains the 24/7 reality of satellite operations from managing thermal heaters in deep space to performing precise orbital maneuvers.She provides a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to “fly” satellites for one of Australia’s largest telecommunications networks.
[00:00:10] Trish Tatel is living her dream job as a satellite controller. At Optus, she is part of a team technical experts that has launched 10 satellites and operated 13 spacecraft over the last three decades. Their work ensures that even in the most remote parts of Australia, people remain connected during emergencies and major events.
The “Ears and Wings” of a Satellite
[00:03:06] While satellites come in many shapes, Trish describes the standard Optus “bird” as a central box containing computers and payload, flanked by two solar arrays—which the team calls “solar wings.” The large circular antennas act as the “ears,” allowing the satellite to receive commands and talk back to mission control on Earth.
TCNR: The Controller’s Mission
[00:03:58] The Optus control room operates 24/7 with a primary objective known as TCNR: Telemetry, Command, and Ranging.
- Telemetry: This provides a constant status update. Because space is a harsh environment, instruments can get too cold to function. If a satellite sends a message saying “I’m too cold,” Trish must respond by commanding the onboard heaters to turn on.
- Command: Sending specific instructions to the satellite to adjust its systems or perform tasks.
- Ranging: This allows the team to measure exactly where a satellite is in space. For geostationary (GEO) satellites, precision is vital; they must stay in their specific “orbital slot” to remain pointed at Australia and provide consistent coverage.
Precision Maneuvers in Deep Space
[00:05:22] Space is full of competing forces that push satellites out of position. Trish works with orbital analysts and spacecraft engineers to perform maneuvers, firing thrusters to fix the inclination or “eccentricity” of the orbit. These corrections ensure the satellite doesn’t accidentally drift and begin broadcasting to Europe instead of Australia!
Careers: More Than Just Engineering
[00:06:48] Trish entered the field with a degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, but she notes that there are many pathways to becoming a controller. Her colleagues include former aircraft controllers and telecommunications experts. The most important “soft skills” for this role are the ability to stay calm under pressure and look at the big picture during high-stakes anomalies.
[00:07:28] Beyond the control room, the industry needs people for orbital planning, space law, R&D, and outreach. Trish recommends that students follow their interests and keep building on their hobbies. “Keep following what you enjoy,” she says, “and something good will come out of it.”
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