Thales: 22 Iridium Next satellites are ready for SpaceX and 22 more will be soon

by Peter B. de Selding

Bertrand Maureau, head of the telecommunications division of satellite builder Thales Alenia Space, said in-orbit tests of the first 10 Iridium Next satellites, launched Jan. 14 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, have gone smoothly and are expected to be completed in April. As a result, Thales Alenia Space and its subcontractor, Orbital ATK, have completed construction and ground testing of 22 more Iridium satellites, with an additional 22 nearing final integration. A second SpaceX launch of 10 Iridium Next satellites is scheduled for April. Credit: Eutelsat via Youtube screenshot

CANNES, France — Iridium Next satellite prime contractor Thales Alenia . . .

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