[Satellite TODAY 12-30-11] SpaceX has confirmed an updated Falcon 9 launch schedule for Orbcomm’s second-generation (OG2) satellites. The updated plans, announced Dec. 29, include launching the first OG2 prototype satellite on the first Cargo Re-supply Services (CRS) mission in mid-2012, followed closely by an additional launch of two OG2 satellites into a high inclination orbit as a secondary payload in late 2012.

   SpaceX plans to launch eight to 12 OG2 satellites in 2013 and the remainder of the OG2 satellites in 2014. The U.S.-based launch services provider said that spreading the deployment across multiple launches is an effort to reduce risk. Orbcomm CEO Marc Eisenberg confirmed the intention.

   “The net outcome of these revised launch plans have us launching OG2 satellites at a faster pace with less risk,” Eisenberg said in a statement. “Orbcomm also is able to field additional spacecraft in 2012 resulting in increased coverage. The inclusion of two OG2 satellites as a secondary payload on a high inclination insertion orbit will enable Orbcomm to significantly improve messaging services in polar latitudes. Additionally, it provides the ability to thoroughly test and verify OG2 satellite performance before the primary launch.”

   The new satellites aim to augment Orbcomm service to maritime Automatic Identification System (AIS) customers. Orbcomm said that while the drifting operation for the mission will take several months after that launch, the satellites will be functional and providing messaging services during that period.