This particular satellite system is designed to be able to address the growing problem of satellites being abandoned due to malfunction, as a result of the exorbitant cost of launching satellites. Comprising special ‘CubeSats,’ the In-space Upgrade Satellite System carries out close-proximity operations with a view to ultimately carrying out servicing operations.
Johnathon Caldwell, vice-president and general manager of the military space division over at Lockheed Martin, stated that the ‘LM LINUSS’ exemplifies the importance of the aerospace giant putting resources into play in real-world innovation. “Agile development, cloud-based operations, and smallsat platforms came together at speed and in orbit, where the real test of technology occurs,” said Caldwell. “Through the accomplishments of LM LINUSS, Lockheed Martin is pioneering how future small and medium class missions will be upgraded on-orbit, and continuing to develop critical, breakthrough technologies that keep our customers ahead of ready.”
Image Credit: Lockheed Martin
