Lockheed’s fifth AEHF satellite completes TVAC testing
Lockheed Martin’s fifth Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF-5) protected communications satellite has completed a series of launch environment tests, the company announced on 21 May.
For the 39 days of Thermal Vacuum Chamber (TVAC) testing, the satellite was subjected to extreme cold and heat in zero atmosphere, to simulate its future on-orbit life. TVAC is a part of a battery of tests that ensure a satellite will arrive in space functionally sound and ready to operate through the extreme temperature changes of space.
AEHF-5 has also completed acoustic testing following TVAC testing where it was subjected to high intensity, low frequency sound waves that simulated the vibrations generated by a rocket propelling its payload from zero to over 17,500mp/h in under eight minutes.
The satellite is now in system-level testing and will be delivered to the US Air Force in 2019. Following its anticipated 2019 launch, the satellite will join the AEHF constellation that continues to provide global, secure, protected and survivable communications for the US and allied forces on ground, sea and air platforms.
Michael Cacheiro, VP for Protected Communications at Lockheed Martin Space, said: ‘TVAC and acoustic tests are critical milestones in the production cycle of a satellite, where we have one shot to get it right, so we take every precaution to ensure the vehicle is ready for the harsh space environment.
The fourth AEHF satellite, which is rapidly nearing the end of its production stage, will be shipped to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station later in 2018 in preparation for a launch on an Atlas V launch vehicle.
More from Digital Battlespace
-
NATO innovation programme doubles in size
DIANA has been leveraging its accelerator programme and test centre network to bring end users together with start-ups, scientific researchers and technology companies for the development of dual-use technological defence and security solutions.
-
DARPA awards AI contracts
The US has been working to out how to use and defend against AI with DARPA alone outlining in 2008 ‘AI Next’ programme with US$2 billion committed to advance the science of AI.
-
Finding your space
Digital mapping and geolocation have become critical to battlespace users, and ensuring the best content is delivered is vital.
-
Why the US would struggle to overcome Russia’s nuclear anti-satellite weapon
Russia's move to develop a nuclear anti-satellite weapon has highlighted US anxieties over space combat readiness, challenging the Pentagon's strategic defences in a potential cosmic battleground.
-
China’s AI developments in electronic surveillance extends to battlefield
‘Nowhere to hide’ as Chinese progress in AI-enabled surveillance technological has enabled it to identify and suppress enemy communications systems.
-
Boeing wins $440 million contract for 12th Wideband Global SATCOM satellite
Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) satellites have been supporting the US DoD’s warfighting information exchange requirements, enabling execution of tactical C4ISR, battlefield management and combat support information.