Iridium’s Satellite Network Operating Center. Photo: Iridium

[Via Satellite 08-05-2014] Iridium has received the first satellite-engineering model for the upcoming Iridium NEXT constellation. The company reports that the model arrived at Iridium’s Technical Support Center (TSC) on July 29, 2014.

Orbital Sciences is building the 81 satellites that will comprise both active and spare units for the Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) constellation Iridium NEXT. The model satellite is fully functional, enabling demonstrations of satellite performance and verification of the spacecraft’s ability.

Iridium also intends to conduct “test-as-you-fly” procedures by connecting the model to the company’s Satellite Control System (SCS). This enables Iridium to trial command and control of the satellite using flight software and hardware.