The first Orbital Sciences (OSC) Orbcomm data messaging and position-reporting communications satellites, launched on 3 April, have run into trouble (Flight International, 12-18 April).
The Orbcomm 1 cannot transmit to customers and the Orbcomm 2 is not responding to up-linked transmissions. Major spacecraft systems, including electrical power and attitude control, are functioning normally.
The OSC Pegasus-launched satellites, each costing $10 million, are the first in a planned network of 26 spacecraft to be completed by 1997, to serve customers worldwide. OSC has invested $60 million in Orbcomm with Canada's Teleglobe investing $10 million.
Source: Flight International