Lockheed Martin’s Data Transport Satellite Clears Design Review | SpaceNews

Lockheed Martin’s communications satellites for Tranche 1 of the Space Development Agency’s Transport Layer have passed a critical design review. The company built a 3D-printed, full-size replica of the upcoming spacecraft for the design review, which also included an optical communications terminal interoperability test. According to Kevin Huttenhoff, senior manager for space data transport at Lockheed Martin, the company worked with the SDA to “thoroughly validate” the Tranche 1 satellites. Lockheed Martin will assemble 42 satellites for the Transport Layer that will be launched beginning in late 2024, SpaceNews reported.