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Iridium Communications and Thales Alenia Space have completed a test call of the L-band hardware and associated software for the Iridium NEXT constellation, demonstrating end-to-end call flow through satellite, ground and public switched telephone networks.
Iridium said Tuesday the milestone validates the Iridium NEXT system’s capabilities for satellite communications as the companies prepare for the first launch next year.
“Placing the first call through Iridium NEXT hardware is a big step for our team as they work to ensure high quality satellites will be ready for launch,” said Scott Smith, Iridium’s chief operating officer.
Iridium NEXT is expected to address the need for increased bandwidth, data speeds and worldwide coverage as well as carry hosted payloads such as AireonSM for aircraft tracking and surveillance.
