York Space Systems Acquires ATLAS Space Operations: Enhancing Satellite Capabilities

York Space Systems, a US-based defense technology company renowned for revolutionizing space-based capabilities, has agreed to acquire ATLAS Space Operations, a provider of Ground Software as a Service (GSaaS). This acquisition is anticipated to boost York’s software-centric approach to satellite communications and ground systems.

By integrating ATLAS, York will benefit from a software-driven ground architecture that streamlines satellite operations, removes integration obstacles, and enhances space-to-ground resiliency. The deal is poised to expedite York’s mission of providing secure, high-performance space systems efficiently. ATLAS will play a crucial role in supporting York’s Golden Dome architecture, a sophisticated defense platform that integrates spacecraft, software, and ground operations for comprehensive capabilities in contested space environments.

ATLAS, established in 2015, will maintain operational autonomy under its existing brand. Its Freedom software platform offers cloud-native satellite connectivity using a single API and a global network with over 50 antennas across 20 countries, making it the sole US-based GSaaS solution. This platform shifts the focus of satellite communications from hardware to software, enabling real-time tasking, automated scheduling, and cloud-based delivery of mission data, delivering a cost-effective, scalable, and flexible solution for both government and commercial users.

Dirk Wallinger, York’s CEO, praised ATLAS for developing a sophisticated and secure ground communications platform. This acquisition is expected to enhance York’s capacity to deliver mission-ready systems promptly, meeting customer demands while continuing to provide top-tier ground solutions in the space industry.

The Freedom platform empowers operators to swiftly onboard and stream data to the cloud, accessing a global infrastructure without the need for additional physical expansion.

Corey Geer, ATLAS’ CEO, expressed alignment with York’s vision of faster, smarter, and seamlessly integrated space systems. Together, they aim to build the necessary infrastructure to confront the future, reducing risks and increasing resilience to ensure on-demand critical data delivery.

Subject to regulatory approvals, such as from the FCC, this acquisition is set to significantly fortify York’s capability to deliver integrated, mission-ready space systems by uniting its high-performance spacecraft and software-driven operations with ATLAS’ reliable ground communications. This synergy will expedite deployment, enhance data throughput, and enable more autonomous and resilient operations, supporting both commercial enterprises and national security missions.