L-3 Storm Software Used to Command and Control Thuraya-1

SPACEMART

can pumpin' data replace drillin' oil

New York - March 22, 2001
L-3 Communications announced today that its Storm Control Systems (L-3 Storm) division has provided the software used for spacecraft integration, factory test, launch, in-orbit test and on-station operations for the Thuraya Satellite Telecommunications Companyï¿½s Thuraya-1 communications satellite, which was manufactured by Boeing Satellite Systems, Inc. (BSS, formerly Hughes Space and Communications).

L-3 Storm software was also used to configure and command the high-speed digital signal processing payload, one of the most powerful ever provided by BSS. Thuraya-1, which was successfully launched late last year, marks the third time that BSS has used L-3 Storm software for launch and in-orbit checkout.

"The successful evolution of our products proves that L-3 Storm provides an industry-unique solution for all aspects of mission life, including both spacecraft and payload," said Chris Bourassa, president of L-3 Communicationsï¿½ Storm Control Systems. "The mission has gone smoothly and has demonstrated the features of our products used on the Thuraya program, as well as L-3ï¿½s commitment to support the needs of our customers."

Thuraya-1, one of the worldï¿½s largest communications satellites, marks the launch of the first Boeing geosynchronous mobile (GEM) satellite, providing voice and data services to approximately 2 billion people. The coverage area is created by a combination of its 40-foot by 50-foot ellipse antenna and state-of-the-art onboard digital signal processing capabilities. With more than 240 spot beams that can be redirected in-orbit, the Thuraya system can adapt to evolving business demands.

Deployment of this first-of-a-kind antenna was successfully commanded, and telemetry was monitored, from the BSS Mission Control Center (MCC) using the software provided by L-3 Storm. Command and control for in-orbit test of the payload electronics, including the digital signal processor, was conducted from both the MCC and Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, where the satellite payload control point is physically located.

"The performance of L-3ï¿½s Storm software was very good at both sites," stated Andy Ott, vice president of strategic programs for L-3 Communicationsï¿½ Storm Control Systems, who witnessed the activities. "We congratulate BSS on a highly successful mission and excellent satellite performance, and we wish Thuraya great success with its business venture."

SPACEMART

Boeing-Built Thuraya Satellite Completes Initial Operational Test Phase

El Segundo - Dec. 4, 2000
In little more than a month following its launch, the Thuraya-1 satellite has successfully completed its Initial Operational Test (IOT) phase. During IOT, Thuraya's C-band antenna, solar wings and 12-meter-diameter L-band reflector were deployed and tested, and the first telephone calls on the Thuraya-1 satellite have been completed.

Thanks for being here; We need your help. The SpaceDaily news network continues to grow but revenues have never been harder to maintain. With the rise of Ad Blockers, and Facebook - our traditional revenue sources via quality network advertising continues to decline. And unlike so many other news sites, we don't have a paywall - with those annoying usernames and passwords. Our news coverage takes time and effort to publish 365 days a year. If you find our news sites informative and useful then please consider becoming a regular supporter or for now make a one off contribution.
SpaceDaily Contributor $5 Billed Once credit card or paypal		SpaceDaily Monthly Supporter $5 Billed Monthly paypal only

The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2016 - Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principals for news reporting and research purposes. AFP, UPI and IANS news wire stories are copyright Agence France-Presse, United Press International and Indo-Asia News Service. ESA news reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. Advertising does not imply endorsement, agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. Privacy Statement All images and articles appearing on Space Media Network have been edited or digitally altered in some way. Any requests to remove copyright material will be acted upon in a timely and appropriate manner. Any attempt to extort money from Space Media Network will be ignored and reported to Australian Law Enforcement Agencies as a potential case of financial fraud involving the use of a telephonic carriage device or postal service.