Demystifying the Universe with Precise Motion Control
Systems Interface helps a major South Korean University explore the depths of space by designing precise motion control for a 21-meter telescope.
Curtis Plett, VP of Engineering, Systems Interface
Cool Stuff
Jan 13, 2026
Lead photo: NASA's James Webb Space Telescope took a look at the Sagittarius B2 molecular cloud. Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Adam Ginsburg (University of Florida), Nazar Budaiev (University of Florida), Taehwa Yoo (University of Florida); Image Processing: Alyssa Pagan (STScI)
How often do you think about black holes? Stars? The mysteries of deep space? If you’re a researcher at a major research University in South Korea, it’s a lot. Researching celestial bodies requires high-performing instruments. When the university needed to construct their deep space antenna system they chose to work with Systems Interface. The company is a Gold-level System Integrator member of the Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork™. Following the success of three previous installations, the project involved the construction of a fourth deep space antenna that could help researchers further explore space.
This project was unique from the start. The university wanted the fourth antenna to perform as well as the first three. Given that the previous antennas were commissioned years ago, Systems Interface had to match the previous systems, but still use updated technologies, such as current servo drives, while keeping the overriding motion control interface the same. An OEM might refuse to deviate from their standard offering whereas a systems integrator like Systems Interface can bring tremendous value by being able to develop a custom solution. The existing deep space antennas utilized outdated Kinetix 7000 drives and legacy servo motion technology, both of which were becoming obsolete.
Precise Control
Operating at very slow velocities, the antenna required precise tracking of celestial targets such as stars and black holes. This meant that a motion control system had to be developed that was capable of tracking these targets accurately while maintaining responsiveness to slow signals from outer space. According to Curits Plett, VP of Engineering at Systems Interface, “It wasn’t just simple motion control. It was motion control to a highly calculated and precise position. A higher-level motion control system takes 29-bit encoders off the structure and closes position loops based on those encoders. Then it has to perform celestial calculations of where it thinks an object in the sky should be, pointing the antenna at the object, using the frequency of the antenna to fine tune the position, and then tracking it across the sky overnight.” Systems Interface leveraged a combination of cutting-edge hardware, their own domain expertise, and the Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork.
The solution included state-of-the-art technology, featuring the ControlLogix® 5580 controller and Kinetix® 5700 Servo Drive control system, which orchestrated precise movements with its four Kinetix MPL low-inertia motors. The solution also used the Allen Bradley® PanelView™ operator interface to enable visualization and control, as well as various Rockwell Automation components. In total, the antenna was built with a single manufacturer solution that enables optimal performance and support rather than a control system cobbled together from many manufacturers.
Procurement, tech support, and supply chain issues
The successful completion of the deep space antenna would not have been possible without the rich ecosystem of the Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork. Strategic partnerships with distributors like North Coast and Rockwell Automation technology consultants expedited the selection and procurement of essential bill of materials components and accelerated on site tech support. Additionally, the profound domain expertise of the Systems Interface team enabled them to devise innovative solutions, such as working with technology partner Profibus to transition from ControlNet to Profibus communication for enhanced reliability and supportability.
The construction of the 21-meter antenna was successfully concluded, bolstered by Rockwell Automation technology, including four servo motors capable of reaching an impressive maximum speed of 3 degrees per second. This milestone allowed the antenna to capture its inaugural astrological images, commonly referred to as “First Light.” With the completion of this project, the University achieved its critical objective of deploying a fully operational antenna within their specified timeline. The antenna's performance not only met but exceeded expectations, showcasing seamless functionality without requiring any additional support during startup.
For more information:
Kinetix MPL Low-inertia Servo Motors
General images of satellites and space courtesy of NASA. Kinetix MPL image courtesy of Rockwell Automation.