ATK, Lockheed Martin Unveil Next-Generation Athena Launchers

Lockheed Martin and Alliant Techsystems (ATK) have entered into a strategic partnership agreement to offer launch services for small payloads utilizing upgraded and modernized Athena 1c and Athena 2c rockets.

The new rockets will be available for launches beginning in 2012, with a payload capability that will support NASA, the U.S. Department of Defense and other markets. The two-stage Athena 1c and three-stage Athena 2c launch vehicles will incorporate the ATK Castor 30 upper stage motor and upgrades to electronic systems.

Lockheed Martin will provide mission management, payload integration and launch operations, and ATK will provide integrated vehicle propulsion, launch vehicle structures, booster integration and launch site operations.

Comtech Xicom Releases New TWTA

Comtech Xicom Technology has released the XTD-750DBSP, a 750-watt antenna-mount, traveling wave tube amplifier (TWTA) targeted at DTH broadcasters. The TWTAs are available across the DBS uplink frequencies of 17.3–18.4 GHz.

Comtech Xicom’s new XTD model features a peak tube for linear performance, which aims to increase system capability while lowering capital and operational costs. The product also aims to enable satellite operators to mount the unit at the antenna and eliminate high transmission losses of long waveguide runs at Ka-band and reduce shelter requirements.

Gilat, Orbit Technology Bring Satellite-on-the-Move Solution to Market

Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. and Orbit Technology Group have completed integration for satellite communications on-the-move solutions to serve a range of industries.

The solutions, designed for ground and maritime markets, include Gilat’s advanced VSAT platforms with Orbit’s Stabilized Satellite Communication Systems.

The integrated offering has been deployed by Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, the national railway company of Kazakhstan. Gilat provided the integrated solution to enable the delivery of broadband wireless services to train passengers. Gilat’s SkyEdge 2 VSATs and Orbit’s maritime antennas also have been deployed on offshore oil platforms, vessels and exploration sites operated by China’s CNOOC Oil Base Group.

Orbcomm Deploys Integrated M2M Portal

Orbcomm has deployed a machine-to-machine (M2M) service portal using Sierra Wireless’ AirVantage services platform.

The portal integrates the AirVantage platform to provide comprehensive device and asset management features, including the ability to track and manage their equipment on land and in maritime regions around the world.

SkyTerra Adds Data Capability to Mobile Radio Equipment

SkyTerra has rolled out new radio software developed by Hughes that enables data capability on SkyTerra’s MSAT-G2 mobile satellite radio equipment.

The radio currently supports push-to-talk, push-to-track and voice communications throughout North America. The software enables users to perform a variety of data applications, including e-mail and text messaging, file transfer, remote monitoring, fleet dispatch, and secure voice communications.

MSAT-G2 radio equipment in the field can be upgraded with the software through authorized service providers or dealers.

SpaceX Activates Dragon UHF Hardware on ISS

SpaceX has activated its Dragon spacecraft communication hardware aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of its Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) contract with NASA. NASA’s Space Shuttle Atlantis delivered the system hardware to the ISS during mission STS-129 in November.

The COTS UHF communication unit, which has completed a series of testing phases, aims to allow ISS crewmembers to monitor and command approaching or departing Dragon spacecraft during cargo delivery missions to the orbiting laboratory.

SpaceX’s Falcon 9 and Dragon spacecraft will transport cargo to and from the ISS on a minimum of 12 flights starting in 2011.

Starling Rolls out FlyAway Satellite Antenna

Starling Advanced Communications is introducing a single-case, flyaway antenna, the company announced.

The StarPack will provide two-way, high-speed Ku-band broadband satellite communications. The self-contained system consists of an antenna panel, positioner, all RF units and an amplifier. It is available in a portable, wheeled carry-on weighing 21 kilograms.

Thrane & Thrane Releases Explorer 325 BGAN Terminal

Thrane & Thrane has unveiled its Explorer 325 mobile BGAN terminal for on-the-move vehicular use.

The Explorer 325 aims to offer data speeds up to 384 kilobits per second (kbps) standard IP and up to 128 kbps streaming. The unit can work down to 5 degrees elevation, whether stationary or moving at speed across all types of terrain, providing global access to applications and user segments from government and military through to NGO, humanitarian and field service use.

Explorer 325 will be available for order in June with first customer shipments expected in August. Thrane & Thrane said it would offer the service at a price point intneded to appeal to new markets such as trains, busses, trucks and sporting events including cycling or motorsports.

Wavestream Introduces C-Band Indoor Solid State Amplifier

Wavestream Corp. introduced the PowerStream 757C-i 600W C-band indoor rack-mount solid state power amplifier, the first in a line of new C-band and Ku-band products.

The amplifier is designed as a plug-and-play replacement for traditional 750-watt linearized traveling wave tube amplifier solutions used in broadcast satellite communications, teleport and satellite newsgathering systems.