Lockheed has successfully completed the key integrated test on the second space-based infrared system (SBIRS) geosynchronous orbit (GEO-2) spacecraft for the USAF.
Lockheed has conducted the first phase of the baseline integrated system test (BIST-1) of the GEO-2 satellite at its facilities in Sunnyvale, California.
The BIST-1, an extensive functional test, was conducted to evaluate the overall performance of the satellite and to establish a performance baseline for the remaining test programme.
With the completion of the BIST-1 test, the final factory work on the satellite and preparation for the final comprehensive BIST milestone will now begin.
The GEO-2 satellite has been designed to provide new missile detection and surveillance capabilities.
It is due to be launched in 2012, aboard an Atlas V launch vehicle.
The SBIRS team includes the space-based infrared systems wing at the US Air Force Space and Missile Systems Centre, Los Angeles Air Force Base, California.
Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company is the prime contractor of SBIRS programme and Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems is the payload integrator.
