Key facts
- SpaceX gained enhanced access to the US Space Command's High Accuracy Catalog.
- The data includes Vector Covariance Messages (VCMs) from military sensors.
- VCM data tracks objects down to about 10cm in size.
- The military uses this data for monitoring other countries' satellites and commercial spacecraft.
- SpaceX's 'Stargaze' system tracks objects down to about half a meter.
The US military has provided Elon Musk's SpaceX with access to highly precise space tracking data, a move that has sparked concerns about national security and the potential privatization of space traffic control. The Space Force signed a contract granting SpaceX enhanced access to its High Accuracy Catalog (Hac), which contains detailed information on satellites, debris, and other objects in orbit. This data, including Vector Covariance Messages (VCMs) collected from military sensors, can track objects as small as 10cm. Critics argue this gives SpaceX an unfair advantage over competitors and consolidates power with a donor to the Trump administration. The military is receiving access to SpaceX's 'Stargaze' tracking system in return.