The Space Operations Cell, known as SPACE at CRUZEX 2024, conducts operations such as monitoring and simulating space events.
At CRUZEX 2024, the Space Operations Cell, called SPACE, plays a fundamental strategic role in coordinating and executing complex activities in the space domain, which are essential for the success of simulated actions. Organized into two subcells — Space Domain Awareness and Earth Observation — SPACE conducts operations ranging from monitoring and simulating space events, such as anti-satellite (ASAT) weapon launches, to obtaining Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and optical images of airborne targets.
Space Domain Awareness
The Space Domain Awareness (SDA) subcell is responsible for analyzing orbital data, identifying events that pose threats to space assets, and proposing countermeasures to mitigate them. One of its tasks is monitoring space weather, which can affect satellite communications and compromise the accuracy of GPS-guided weapons, directly impacting air and defense operations. This constant vigilance over the space environment allows participants to anticipate and tackle challenges arising from space weather conditions.
Earth Observation
The Earth Observation (EO) subcell, in turn, focuses on using satellites to obtain high-precision images, whether SAR or optical. A notable feature of this subcell in CRUZEX 2024 is the strong integration among the participating countries — Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and the United States — which have actively collaborated in acquiring real images of the Exercise’s targets. This international cooperation is essential for data sharing and for strengthening spatial observation and intelligence capabilities among nations.
Integration with Air Operations
Both subcells are responsible for providing essential input for the efficient and effective planning of air operations. The detailed information from Space Domain Awareness and Earth Observation allows space operations to complement air activities, maximizing mission safety and success.
Major Engineer Igor Machado Alves, Head of the SPACE Cell, emphasizes the importance of the activities performed in the exercise for an effective response to threats. According to him, CRUZEX 2024 aims to achieve two major objectives in the space sector: interoperability and cooperation among the nations and forces involved, with the goal of strengthening the defense of space assets. “This aims to ensure a coordinated and effective response to threats that may impact these critical resources. In the air context, we observe the direct impact of space technologies on operations, especially regarding communication, navigation, and surveillance, which are essential for the safety and success of the missions,” he said.
