The Air Force and its industry partners have completed the final integrated system test of GEO-1, the first Space Based Infrared System satellite, according to prime contractor Lockheed Martin. This is an important step in preparing the spacecraft for its delivery to Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., for its projected placement into orbit next spring, said Lockheed officials in a release. “[T]he entire government-industry team completed a disciplined and thorough test that represents a major program milestone on the path to mission success,” said Jeff Smith, Lockheed’s SBIRS vice president. The test was designed to verify the satellite’s performance and functionality. Prior to its delivery, GEO-1 must still undergo final space-to-ground interface system testing, final spacecraft component installations, and a final factory confidence test. Lockheed expects to complete qualification of the satellite’s flight software early next year.
The Space Force should take bold, decisive steps—and soon—to develop the capabilities and architecture needed to support more flexible, dynamic operations in orbit and counter Chinese aggression and technological progress, according to a new report from AFA’s Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies.
