Arctic broadband satcom programme clears key operational test

The ASBM-1 satellite undergoes vibration testing at Northrop Grumman’s satellite manufacturing facility in Dulles, Virginia. (Northrop Grumman)

A Northrop Grumman-built satellite communications (satcom) space vehicle (SV) for the Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission (ASBM) programme has cleared key developmental testing, according to company officials.

ASBM-1, one of two broadband satcom SVs being developed by Northrop Grumman for the joint ASBM programme between the US and Norway, has completed thermal vacuum (TVAC) testing, a 7 November company statement said.

The second ASBM satellite, ASBM-2, is scheduled to undergo similar testing in the coming months. TVAC testing is a programme requirement to determine whether the SV or payload can withstand the harsh operating environment associated with space-based missions across polar orbits. The successful completion of TVAC testing on the broadband satcom SVs will keep the ASBM programme on track for an anticipated 2024 launch date, company officials said.