A Proton rocket stood up for launch. Photo: TsENKI

[Via Satellite 01-13-2015] Khrunichev Research and Production Space Center, Yuzhny Space Center’s TsENKI division and Boeing are preparing the second Global Xpress High Throughput Satellite (HTS) for launch at the Baikonur Cosmodrome. The Inmarsat-5 F2 satellite is contracted to launch Jan. 30 aboard a Proton rocket through International Launch Services (ILS).

Global Xpress consists of three in-orbit satellites and one spare. Boeing, the prime contractor for the constellation, began prelaunch testing of the Inmarsat-5 F2 satellite once it arrived on Dec. 18, 2014.

The Moscow-based Khrunichev Space Center is conducting pneumatic tests of the Proton-M rocket along with autonomous tests of the payload fairing. The company is handling the final check-ups of the Breeze-M upper stage propulsion system while the Yuzhny Space Center’s TsENKI division is preparing the launch complex of pad 200 for the mission.

Inmarsat-5 F2 is designed to provide coverage over North and South America as well as the Atlantic Ocean. The full three-satellite constellation is expected to be operational and providing commercial services early in the second half of 2015.