This is a mini-communications satellite called Geonon based on the Dror satellite developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for the Israeli government.
As part of the IAC World Space Congress that opened this morning in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, IAI unveils an innovative concept for communications satellites: a mini-communications satellite to be called the Mini Communication-Satellite (MCS).
MCS 'development is based on the capabilities developed for Dror 1, the national communications satellite of the State of Israel - most of the blue and white technologies developed in the aerospace industry include advanced digital communications payloads and "smartphone in space" capabilities that allow communication flexibility throughout its years of operation.
The satellite control software and the development architecture enable applications to be loaded from the ground into space while performing its mission in space, thus enabling adaptation and change of mission to the satellite in accordance with the changing communication needs.
The innovative satellite is an advanced communications satellite weighing about 650 kg at the time of launch and includes a full digital communications payload weighing about 200 kg. Due to its relatively low weight, the satellite is adapted for launch in combination with other satellites and thus significantly reduces the cost of launch.
The mini-satellite, which is expected to last about 14 years, is designed to provide advanced regionally targeted communications services to customers or countries with diverse communications needs. The Space Congress in Dubai, where the mini-satellite will be unveiled, will be held from October 25 to 29.
IAI Space Plant Manager, Shlomi Sudri: "The development of the innovative MCS satellite reflects IAI's extensive space capabilities.
'MCS Mini Satellite is a new niche in the worlds of communications satellites as well as a complementary or regional targeted system. This system enables the aerospace industry to offer full satellite capability at a competitive price that opens the way for new markets in the field of satellites. We are in contact with a number of customers around the world regarding the innovative concept and are proud to launch it at the World Space Congress in Dubai. "
At the beginning of 2020, the Government of Israel commissioned from Israel Aerospace Industries, Israel's Space House, the development and construction of Dror 1, Israel's next communications satellite, for the benefit of the vital satellite communications capabilities required for the country. IAI is promoting the development and construction of the satellite in accordance with the schedules set with the government.