An antenna reflector built by Harris Corporation (NYSE: HRS) for the geosynchronous ICO G1 global communications satellite was successfully deployed on orbit Saturday, April 26, and will play a key role in providing next-generation mobile communications services across North America.
Harris Government Communications Systems provided the reflector and onboard articulating boom to Space Systems/Loral for ICO Global Communications (Holdings) Limited. The Harris 12-meter reflector features a unique design that allows it to be stowed in a smaller space, while providing increased antenna gain and improved performance required for mobile interactive media services.
Designed and built by Space Systems/Loral and launched April 14 from Cape Canaveral, the ICO G1 satellite will provide next-generation communications services across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Trials of interactive mobile video, navigation, and emergency assistance services — to be known as ICO mim(TM) — will be conducted by ICO later this year. The Harris antenna reflector enables the ICO satellite to focus 2 GHz S-band signals on North America.
“This on-orbit success reflects our continuing commitment to providing the most advanced unfurlable reflector designs that meet the challenges of mobile communications providers and satellite broadcasters,” said Jeremy Wensinger, group president of Harris Government Communications Systems. “The larger reflector size was achieved by using a patented Harris design and is key to providing new, high-quality satellite services to a full range of portable communication devices. We are pleased to be part of the Loral/ICO team in bringing these next-generation satellite services to users across the nation.”
The reflector features a Harris-patented, gold-plated mesh reflective surface and a unique design that maximizes antenna gain while reducing stowed volume and antenna mass. During launch, the Harris reflector was stowed onboard the satellite much like an umbrella. Once on orbit, ground controllers sent a command signal to the satellite to unfurl the reflector. Minutes later, the reflector achieved a fully deployed status to its final intended configuration. The reflector and boom were manufactured at Harris facilities in Palm Bay, Florida.
About Harris Corporation
Harris is an international communications and information technology company serving government and commercial markets in more than 150 countries. Headquartered in Melbourne, Florida, the company has annual revenue of almost $5 billion and 16,000 employees — including nearly 7,000 engineers and scientists. Harris is dedicated to developing best-in-class assured communications(R) products, systems, and services. Additional information about Harris Corporation is available at www.harris.com.
