- Lockheed Martin announced it has launched its most advanced mobile communications satellite, which is based on the modernized LM 2100 bus launched from the Guiana Space Center
Lockheed Martin announced it has launched its most advanced mobile communications satellite. The third satellite based on the modernized LM 2100 bus launched from the Guiana Space Center in French Guiana aboard an Ariane 5 rocket and it is traveling to its transfer orbit for a series of in-orbit tests before operations are handed over to Sky Perfect JSAT Corporation. JCSAT-17 is going to provide flexible mobile communications services to users in Japan and the surrounding region.
JCSAT-17 is known as the first Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) communications satellite built on the modernized LM 2100 — which includes 26 innovations that make the satellite more powerful, flexible, and versatile in orbit. And a reprogrammable mission processor adds flexibility as mission needs change. Lockheed Martin is currently manufacturing five modernized LM 2100-based satellites for commercial and government customers.
“Advanced mobile satellite communications are necessary as the world consumes more and more data in the transition to 5G,” said Guy Beutelschies, Lockheed Martin’s Vice President for Communication Satellite Solutions. “This satellite will diversify and harden Japan’s communications infrastructure, by adding new options for mobility, bandwidth where it’s needed, and reliable connections.”
The satellite’s payload incorporates S-band and C-band transponders with a flexible processor along with 18m mesh reflector thus enabling assured communications continuity during high-volume events. And the satellite also features robust Ku-band connectivity. JCSAT-17 is the eighth satellite built by Lockheed Martin for SJC, beginning with NSAT-110, JCSAT-9 through JCSAT-13 and JCSAT-110R.
