Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest integrated terrestrial and satellite networks and a leading provider of onboard connectivity (IFC), has ordered a SpaceLogistics Mission Extension Pod (MEP) from Northrop Grumman Corporation, which will bring an Intelsat satellite to life and will provide uninterrupted services for many customers.
The MEP jet pack will be installed by SpaceLogistics’ robotic mission vehicle (MRV) on an Intelsat satellite operating in geosynchronous orbit, ensuring continuity of satellite service for at least six years from 2026. Intelsat has not identified which satellite will be attended to. Both MEP and MRV have completed critical design reviews, are in assembly and testing, and are moving toward launch.
“Intelsat is committed to the safe and sustainable stewardship of space,” said Intelsat Chief Technology Officer Bruno Fromont. “Four years ago, Intelsat successfully led the industry with the first in-orbit maintenance of satellites in cooperation with Northrop Grumman. The new MEP will also further Intelsat’s mission to provide the most reliable service to our customers.”
This recent purchase continues Intelsat’s legacy of space sustainability first instituted in 2020 when SpaceLogistics’ Mission Extension Vehicle (MEV-1) performed the first commercial spacecraft in-orbit docking with the Intelsat 901 (IS-901) , extending its life by another five years. In 2021, a second Mission Extension Vehicle (MEV-2) began providing similar life extension services to Intelsat 10-02.
“SpaceLogistics shares Intelsat’s commitment to making space sustainable, and we look forward to expanding our relationship as a provider of next-generation space services with our MRV and MEP,” commented SpaceLogistics President Rob Hauge.
About Intelsat
Intelsat’s global team of professionals is focused on providing seamless, secure satellite communications for government agencies, NGOs and commercial customers through the company’s state-of-the-art global network and managed services. Bridging the digital divide by operating one of the world’s largest and most advanced fleets of satellites and connectivity infrastructure, Intelsat enables people and their equipment to talk across oceans, see across continents and hear across skies to communicate, cooperate and coexist. Since its founding six decades ago, the company has been synonymous with the satellite industry’s “firsts” in service to its customers and the planet. Building on a legacy of innovation and focusing on tackling a new generation of challenges, Intelsat team members now have their eyes on the “next pioneers” in the space as they revolutionize the field and lead the industry’s digital transformation. .
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Contact:
Melissa Longo – [email protected]
Source: BUSINESS WIRE
