The first Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous orbit (GEO-1) satellite, completed a test using new flight software permitting highly reliable spacecraft command and control operations, Lockheed Martin Corp. [LMT] announced.
That Air Force SBIRS is to provide early warning of missile launches and simultaneously support other missions including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness.
Successful testing of the GEO-1 spacecraft, known as Baseline Integrated System Test (BIST), was conducted from Jan. 2 to Jan. 27 at Lockheed Space Systems facilities in Sunnyvale, Calif.
The test characterized performance of the integrated satellite and established a performance baseline prior to entering thermal vacuum testing.
SBIRS flight software architecture is designed to enable robust command and data handling, fault management and safe-hold capabilities on the GEO satellite system.
The new flight software used during BIST contains applications that control space vehicle electrical power, temperature, attitude and navigation. It also features a robust fault management system, which responds when an anomaly is detected during on-orbit operations, putting the satellite into a safe state while ground operators analyze the situation and take corrective action.
Delivery of the final flight software block is planned this month to support thermal vacuum testing, which will validate spacecraft performance at temperature extremes greater than those expected during on-orbit operations. The spacecraft is planned for delivery to the Air Force in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2010, for launch aboard an Atlas V rocket.
Atlas V and Delta IV rockets are provided by United Launch Alliance, a joint venture of The Boeing Co. [BA] and Lockheed.