Employees at Lockheed Martin’s facilities in Sunnyvale, Calif., inspect the first Mobile User Objective System satellite following the successful integration of the Multi Beam Antenna with the spacecraft system module and core structure.
The successful testing demonstrates that components work together as an integrated spacecraft and will meet the warfighter’s needs for UHF communications. The next steps are spacecraft level vibration and acoustic tests to simulate the launch environment, followed by thermal vacuum tests that simulate the extreme hot and cold temperature on orbit. Upon completion of these tests there will be final post-environmental performance tests to verify that the satellite works properly prior to launch.
MUOS satellite, image courtesy of Lockheed Martin
MUOS is the Defense Department’s military satellite communication system that supports a worldwide, multi-service population of users in the narrowband. The system is designed to support users that require greater mobility, higher data rates and improved operational availability. This system will provide greater than 10 times the system capacity of the current narrowband constellation. MUOS will support unified commands and joint task force components, DoD and non-DoD agencies, and U.S. allies by providing worldwide tactical narrowband netted, point-to-point, and broadcast voice and data services in such challenging environments as double canopy foliage, urban environments, high sea states and all weather conditions.
