Northrop Grumman said Wednesday it had "successfully completed acoustic testing of the payload for the first Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous orbit (GEO) satellite. The company is to produce the payload for Lockheed Martin, the prime contractor and systems integrator for the SBIRS program.
During the test, the GEO-1 payload was subjected to the maximum sound and vibration levels expected during the spacecraft's launch into orbit. The payload's sensor assembly was assembled in a launch configuration for this un-powered acoustic exposure," Northrop Grumman said. The company said the tests were conducted at its Large Acoustic Test Facility at Redondo Beach, Calif.
"This step marks a key milestone in the test schedule for GEO-1," Northrop Grumman said. "
"Over the summer, the fully integrated payload was put through ambient functional testing at Azusa to demonstrate critical payload functions," the statement said.
"Engineers executed 147 separate tests which checked out functions such as command and telemetry, infrared data connectivity to the onboard signal processing assembly, internal data bus messaging, scanner and starer mission modes, and downlink interfaces. Additional preparations ensured that the payload could be mounted to the test fixture and tested to the required levels."
Source: United Press International
