Anna Forrester
Iridium Communications has completed the initial test phase on the primary functions of the Thales Alenia Space-developed Iridium NEXT platform software ahead of the first satellite launch this year.
Iridium said Tuesday this testing phase is the first of a series of tests on the platform software’s systems integration and other functions to check Iridium NEXT’s operational autonomy.
“Completion of this testing phase is a huge step forward in launching the constellation,” said Scott Smith, chief operating officer at Iridium Communications.
Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture of Thales and Finmeccanica, is the software program’s prime contractor.
Iridium said the JV’s platform software will work to manage the satellites’ flight functions, including power management, navigation, propulsion operations and attitude control.
The software is designed to help Iridium NEXT satellites recover from on-orbit anomalies on its own, the company added.
