Space Systems Command’s EPS-R Program Passes Critical Payload Test, Readies for Launch

The Space Systems Command has announced the completion of factory confidence tests for its Enhanced Polar System-Recapitalization program payloads.

According to U.S. Space Force Capt. Dale Hartley, EPS-R’s deputy brand chief, the test’s goal was to verify the payloads’ functionality and its hardware and software configurations, ensuring its readiness for transportation to the launch site, the Space Systems Command said.

A collaboration with the Space Force, Northrop Grumman and Space Norway’s Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission, the EPS-R program is designed to strengthen communication for North Polar users and supports the National Defense Strategy.

The program features two extremely high-frequency tactical military satellite communications payloads and an upgraded ground system, marking the first-ever operational Department of Defense payloads to be hosted on an allied satellite.

The collaboration is facilitated through Space Norway’s Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission, which acquired the Northrop Grumman-developed GEOStar-3 spacecraft and launch services. The GEOStar-3 will also carry payloads for the Norwegian military and commercial satcom provider ViaSat.

The launch of the payloads is targeted for mid-July.