GEO-1 Spacecraft Solar Array Deployment Pyroshock testing is used to demo the operational deployment of critical satellite components.
The U.S. Air Force's first geosynchronous Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) satellite successfully completed Pyroshock deployment testing Nov. 26th at the development site, Lockheed Martin, Sunnyvale, Calif, propelling unprecedented early missile warning capability one step closer to the warfighter. Pyroshock testing proves satellite survivability during the rigors of launch and the initial deployment operations necessary to successfully achieve orbit. Pyroshock testing verifies the proper operation of the separation mechanism between the spacecraft and the launch vehicle, the deployment of the satellite's solar arrays and communication antennas, as well as the SBIRS unique deployable light shade and contamination door assembly, used to protect the highly sensitive optical sensors. (Photo, right, is courtesy of SMC/L.A.F.B. and shows the GEO-1's satellite solar arrays deployment, an integral element of Pyroshock testing.)
SBIRS is the nation's nexgen early missile warning system, replacing the legacy Defense Support Program satellite with unrivaled missile warning capability; delivering a new generation of space-based satellites providing missile warning, missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness to combatant commanders. SBIRS is revolutionizing space based infrared monitoring of the earth with its wide field of view, increased sensitivity, fast revisit rate and persistent presence. The deployment of the deployable light shade (shown above) is a key objective of Pyroshock testing. Here, Pyroshock test engineers inspect the deployed light shade to verify its successful deployment. The SBIRS program develops both the highly elliptical orbiting payloads and geosynchronous orbiting satellites, as well as the ground systems to support mission operations. (Photo, left, is courtesy of SMC/L.A.F.B. and shows the GEO-1's deployable light shade.)
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