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Northrop Grumman's AstroMesh deployable reflector system has successfully deployed aboard the Inmarsat Limited I-4 satellite, launched March 11 from Cape Canaveral, Florida. On March 25, following a release command by ground controllers, the nine-meter (30-feet) diameter AstroMesh furlable mesh reflector and boom support system successfully deployed. Further radio frequency testing will confirm that the shape and pointing of the reflector are as expected. This is the first of three reflectors delivered by Northrop Grumman's Astro Aerospace unit for EADS Astrium, and is the fourth AstroMesh reflector to be deployed in space. The reflector provides a key part of the antenna system used by the spacecraft to provide broadband Internet communications. The antenna sensitivity enabled by the large reflector allows the use of mobile, laptop-size modems by users in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia. "This achievement underscores our commitment to reliable space deployable products," said Tom Romesser, vice president of technology development for Northrop Grumman Space Technology. "Our AstroMesh reflector is an enabling technology for this new service." In addition to EADS Astrium, Astro Aerospace has built five AstroMesh reflectors for other space companies, three of which are already in operational service in orbit, Romesser noted. Related Links SpaceDaily Search SpaceDaily Subscribe To SpaceDaily Express 
Atlas 5 Lifts Massive Satellite For Inmarsat
Cape Canaveral FL (SPX) Mar 11, 2005An Atlas V launch vehicle carried its largest payload to date into orbit tonight, the Inmarsat 4-F1 satellite that weighs nearly 6 metric tons (5,959 kgs/13,138 pounds). This also marked the third launch of the year for International Launch Services (ILS). |
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