Argos metamorphosis update: Full-scale testing of Kinéis’ 25 nanosats has begun!
- June 9, 2022
- Category: Flash info
Ever wondered how small tags like these mini drifters can communicate with satellites that are up to 650 km away?
It all comes down to the highly sensitive receivers that make the Argos system so unique.
The slightest radiofrequency interference between the different instruments onboard the satellite can cause disruptions.
Ensuring each instrument onboard works in harmony with the others is no small feat, simulating disturbances can’t be done with a computer.
Only a full-scale mock-up (a faithful reproduction of the satellite flight model including its instruments) can provide the means for effective testing.
Recently HEMERIA and Kinéis, created by CLS to transform the Argos system, carried out these electromagnetic self-compatibility tests with the experts at the SOPEMEA laboratory, which has some of the most advanced testing facilities in Europe. According to our sources at Kinéis, “the expected performances have been validated”.
You may remember, back in April last year, Michel Sarthou, Chief Technical Officer at Kinéis, told us that 2022 would be dedicated to tests. Well, based on this recent update, it looks like the new constellation is still on track for a 2023 launch!
We’ll keep posting updates throughout the year so stay tuned!
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