Mating of the SGDC and payload. Photo: Tales Alenia Space

[Via Satellite 12-29-2015] Visiona Tecnologia Espacial, responsible for the integration of the Geostationary Satellite of Defense and Strategic Communications (SGDC) system in Brazil, announced the completion of a key program milestone.

On Dec. 14, the mating between the satellite platform and the communication module was successfully performed, marking the beginning of the integration and testing campaign. The mating was held at Thales Alenia Space facilities, satellite supplier of the SGDC System.

With the SGDC system, Brazil aims to achieve sovereignty in civilian and military strategic communications as well as expanding access to broadband Internet for the entire nation’s territory.

“The program continues to advance as planned and in line for launching the satellite in 2016. In the coming months, the satellite will undergo through a campaign of tests simulating the launch and space environments, as well as functional testing,” said Eduardo Bonini, president of Visiona.