MCLEAN, Va. - Iridium Communications Inc. has successfully upgraded its System Control Segment (SCS) and completed its Launch and Early Operations (LEOP) control center for Iridium NEXT.
Iridium NEXT Mission Team partner L-3 Telemetry-West (L-3 TW) played a key role in the upgrade project with their InControl software suite. InControl is providing the core satellite command and control functions allowing Iridium NEXT satellites to be efficiently controlled through automation, an extensive application programming interface (API), and a user-centric fleet management design.
The overall development of the SCS is performed by The Boeing Company, which is a long-time Iridium operations partner. Boeing will continue operating the constellation through its transition to Iridium NEXT and beyond as the company's operations and maintenance provider.
The completion of the buildout for the LEOP control center marks another significant milestone toward the launch of Iridium NEXT. In the LEOP facility, the Iridium NEXT satellites will be managed after separation from the launch vehicle, tested to ensure on-orbit functionality, and then maneuvered and monitored while they are transferred into the mission constellation.
Iridium NEXT will offer improved capabilities compared to the current generation of satellites, giving Iridium even more opportunities to expand its market presence. Forecast International expects all Iridium NEXT satellites to be delivered on or near schedule. Deliveries will be completed by 2017. Iridium expects those satellites to provide services through 2030.
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