A ground segment consists of all the ground-based elements of a space system used by operators and support personnel, as opposed to the space segment and user segment.[1][2]: 1 The ground segment enables management of a spacecraft, and distribution of payload data and telemetry among interested parties on the ground. The primary elements of a ground segment are:
- Ground (or Earth) stations, which provide radio interfaces with spacecraft[2]: 142
- Mission control (or operations) centers, from which spacecraft are managed[3]: 20
- Remote terminals, used by support personnel[2]: 142
- Spacecraft integration and test facilities
- Launch facilities[3]: 21
- Ground networks, which allow for communication between the other ground elements[2]: 142 [4]
These elements are present in nearly all space missions, whether commercial, military, or scientific. They may be located together or separated geographically, and they may be operated by different parties.[5][6]: 25 Some elements may support multiple spacecraft simultaneously.[7]: 480, 481
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