Space Imaging announced today that the launch of the world’s first commercial one-meter resolution satellite, IKONOS 1, will occur by June 1999. The launch was previously scheduled for 1998. The delay is a result of a technical problem discovered during the satellite’s final verification testing. The problem lies in a satellite sub-system and is being corrected.
“The sophistication of a satellite such as IKONOS 1 demands that every sub-system be tested and operate at 100% capability,” said John Copple, Space Imaging’s chief executive officer. “Lockheed Martin has an extensive test program to ensure any potential problems are corrected prior to launch. Space Imaging will continue to rely on the judgment and proven expertise of Lockheed Martin to ensure mission success.”
IKONOS 1 is being built by Lockheed Martin Missiles & Space in Sunnyvale, California. It will be launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, aboard an Athena II rocket.
Ikonos Reports At SpaceDaily
Earth Observation Reports At SpaceDaily
