SOFIA (Bulgaria), March 20, 2016 – Bulgaria's first communications satellite, BulgariaSat-1, is currently being prepared for launch later this year.
The satellite is being manufactured by leading satellite manufacturer Space Systems/Loral (SSL), based in Silicon Valley, California. Significant progress has already been made in the construction and testing of Bulgaria's first communications satellite, with indications that BulgariaSat-1 may be completed ahead of schedule and delivered to the launch site later this year.
Once launched, the satellite will provide direct-to-home television and communications services across the Balkans and other parts of Europe.
"The success of this space mission will not only safeguard Bulgaria's national interest and represent the culmination of the extraordinary efforts of the Bulgaria Sat team, but will also stand as recognition of the trust placed in us by our customers, without whom this achievement would not have been possible."
With the active involvement of Bulgarian engineers, SSL has already completed the assembly of the satellite's electronic and mechanical components and has commenced compliance and qualification testing.
As the satellite will operate in geostationary orbit approximately 36,000 kilometers above Earth, where in-orbit repairs or testing are impossible, extensive validation procedures are required to ensure that the spacecraft can withstand both the extreme conditions of launch and the harsh space environment.
Following completion of the initial verification process, engineers and technicians will conduct a series of qualification tests designed to demonstrate the satellite's ability to endure launch stresses and long-term orbital operations. These tests include exposure to high vibration and acoustic levels simulating rocket launch conditions.
The satellite is also undergoing thermal-vacuum testing in a specialized chamber that simulates the extreme temperatures and vacuum conditions encountered in space. After testing, the spacecraft is re-evaluated to confirm that all systems remain fully operational and in the same condition as prior to testing.
Only after flawless test results are confirmed will the satellite begin its journey to the launch facility.
BulgariaSat-1 is expected to be transported in a specially designed container aboard an Antonov An-124 heavy-cargo aircraft operated by the Russian carrier Volga-Dnepr.
Additional Technical Details
The satellite is built around a highly durable, lightweight cylindrical core. The radio-frequency communication components are mounted on rectangular panels attached to the walls of the central cylinder.
Following the integration of the communications payload into the satellite structure, the spacecraft entered a comprehensive testing phase. Payload integration is now complete, and substantial progress has already been made in testing onboard electronics.
Key Milestones Ahead of Launch
- By mid-April 2016: The satellite is scheduled to enter thermal vacuum testing in an environment simulating the extreme conditions of space. This represents one of the most important milestones in the development of any spacecraft.
- Later this autumn: Antenna testing will take place at a Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR) facility. This will be the only opportunity to view the satellite fully integrated with all antennas installed.
- End of year: The launch of Bulgaria's first geostationary communications satellite, BulgariaSat-1, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle is scheduled for later this year.