[Satellite Today – 4-1-08] Com Dev International Ltd., has completed an end-to-end ground-based test of its advanced automatic identification system (AIS) payload and nanosatellite, the company announced March 31.
     The nanosatellite is an experimental vehicle intended to demonstrate key elements of Com Dev space-based AIS detection technology and enable any design changes to be incorporated prior to launch. Recent tests were the last in a series required to confirm that the spacecraft and payload are operating correctly and responding to operational commands. The testing also confirmed the ability of the payload to receive data and transmit it to the ground station.
    The spacecraft is scheduled to be launched in late April.