Lockheed Martin completes MUOS satellite testing
Lockheed Martin has successfully completed thermal vacuum testing of the US Navy's first Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite, a major program milestone that validates spacecraft performance in a simulated test-like-you-fly space environment.
A next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system, MUOS will provide significantly improved and assured communications for mobile warfighters. It will augment and ultimately replace the current UHF system and provide 10 times more communications capability to the user, including simultaneous voice, video and data.
Conducted inside Lockheed Martin's Dual Entry Large Thermal Altitude chamber, the MUOS spacecraft was stressed in a vacuum environment at the extreme hot and cold temperatures it will experience throughout its design life.
This major milestone was the culmination of an extensive test program that proves the spacecraft's overall design, quality of workmanship and survivability during space vehicle launching and on-orbit operation environments.
Thermal vacuum testing of the first MUOS satellite was completed later than originally planned as the team worked to validate the performance of this state-of-the-art spacecraft. While issues with specific legacy payload components were encountered during the test, Lockheed Martin was able to resolve each issue prior to completing thermal vacuum testing and entering final integration system testing in preparation for delivery.
"The team worked extremely hard to complete this important test phase in a disciplined and timely fashion to support our customer's launch needs," said Mark Pasquale, Lockheed Martin vice president and MUOS program manager. "The test confirms the spacecraft's ability to provide critical on-the-move communications for our deployed forces in remote and rugged locations and represents a pivotal moment toward achieving mission success on this program."
The first MUOS satellite, along with the associated ground system, is on track to support launch in the first quarter of 2012.
Source: Lockheed Martin
More from Digital Battlespace
-
British Army’s ISR commander warns of new challenges facing defence forces
The race between using ISR and resisting the use of it by enemies has accelerated, leading to new methods and systems being required, according to the British Army’s lead on its ISR efforts.
-
Jacobs wins MoD cyber-security support contract
The deal with Jacobs will run until November 2027 and will see the company deliver a range of digital and IT specialist professional services to Defence Digital.
-
Orbit upgrades two multi-purpose terminals and carries out land testing
The communications company has upgraded two of its Beyond Line-of-Sight Multi-Purpose Terminals (MBTs) by introducing advancements in satellite communication technology and AI-driven maintenance capabilities.
-
Norway to receive maritime surveillance satellite data from Kongsberg
Norway's Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace has announced that its subsidiary Kongsberg NanoAvionics will produce three satellites and launch them in 2025.
-
First South Korean 425 Project observation satellite launched
In 2015, South Korea named a consortium of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Hanwha Systems, along with Thales Alenia Space providing the SAR payload derived from its HE-R1000 product, as preferred bidder to develop new Korea 425 Project reconnaissance satellites.