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The last AstroMesh reflector built by Northrop Grumman for the third and final satellite in the Inmarsat Limited I-4 series has been shipped for launch integration this fall. The reflector is a key part of the antenna system used by the spacecraft to provide broadband Internet communications. Antenna sensitivity enabled by the large reflector allows the use of mobile, laptop-size modems by users anywhere in the selected coverage area. The delivery to prime contractor EADS Astrium, Toulouse, France, capped several recent milestones on the I-4 satellite program. In particular, the AstroMesh reflector deployed March 25 on the first I-4 satellite has completed on-orbit testing of the satellite communications payload. Those tests verified that the reflector had indeed achieved its correct shape, pointing accuracy and passive intermodulation requirements, which eliminate interference from high-power transmissions. "This success provides additional confidence in the remaining two AstroMesh reflectors," said Tom Romesser, vice president of technology development for Northrop Grumman Space Technology. "Our AstroMesh reflectors are helping Astrium and Inmarsat achieve their goals. We expect this success will lead to additional reflector programs in the near future." Additionally, EADS Astrium and Astro Aerospace have completed final installation of the AstroMesh reflector on the second I-4 satellite, which is scheduled for launch later this year. Related Links SpaceDaily Search SpaceDaily Subscribe To SpaceDaily Express 
Inmarsat Files Petition Requesting Access To 2 GHz Spectrum
Washington (SPX) Sep 28, 2005Inmarsat announced Tuesday that it has filed a petition with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) seeking authorization to provide Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) by 2010 using a spacecraft that will operate in the 2 GHz band. |
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