Shin Satellite PLC said Space Systems/Loral (SS/L) informed the company that it successfully concluded its antenna patterns and end-to-end payload tests in compact antenna test range (CATR) for the iPSTAR-1 satellite. It was the last of a series of tests to complete the qualification of the satellite, Shin executives said.

CATR is an examination of the complete end-to-end communications channels including transmit and receive performance and coverage of service areas of the satellite after the satellite had been subjected to a simulated space and launch environment.

Shin said SS/L will perform final routine electrical systems checks and prepare the satellite for delivery to the Arianespace launch facility in Kourou, French Guiana, for its scheduled launch early this year.