SNC shipped the satellite to the Cape Canaveral, Fla. launch site, where it will be integrated as a secondary payload on a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle as part of the first Cargo Resupply Services (CRS) mission to the International Space Station.

   The prototype satellite is based on SNC’s SN-100 satellite bus and currently scheduled to launch on Oct. 7.

   The spacecraft is the first of an 18-satellite constellation being designed, built and managed by SNC. In preparation for launch, SNC also installed a state-of-the-art satellite operations center. The Louisville Satellite Operations Center will support essential communications with the satellite prior to launch and during early on-orbit checkout and operations.