Programmed Composites, Inc. (PCI) has delivered lightweight, stable honeycomb panels and structures to the spacecraft industry since 1976. Experience manufacturing bus structures for Lockheed Martin's A2100 commercial satellite program, combined with streamlined assembly techniques and ISO9000-certified manufacturing makes PCI an ideal choice to provide Astrolink spacecraft bus structures. 

The Astrolink bus structure shares 80% commonality with the A2100 bus structures currently in production at PCI. To reduce risk and cost, PCI will employ the same 934 resin system materials and embedded heat pipes configured for A2100. PCI specializes in producing structures with optimum strength, weight and precision to help the customer achieve maximum spacecraft power and versatility.

Heritage
PCI has manufactured over 20 spacecraft bus structures for the A2100 program at their 65,000 square-foot facilities. PCI demonstrated mass-production ability by manufacturing 300 phased array panels for IRIDIUMŪ. By employing unique processes and proven materials technology knowledge, PCI is able to produce versatile spacecraft structures with the most value.

PCI products have flown successfully on over 100 spacecraft. The company's impressive flight heritage includes more than 500 structural panels including hardware employing embedded heat pipes, and thermal coatings such as Optical Solar Reflectors (OSR). Customers have benefited from PCI's flawless flight log including Lockheed Martin, Hughes, Orbital, TRW, and Ball Aerospace.

Excellence
PCI tests each panel at critical points in the manufacturing process, using methods such as test coupons and thermal cycling, to ensure product reliability. Attention to detail and consistent production techniques ensure the customer's specifications are met on every panel. PCI employs stringent quality controls and strives to continuously improve procedures and assembly flow. Every member of the program team works to provide the highest quality flight hardware.

The majority of tooling and support equipment for the Astrolink program are already in place in PCI's class 100,000 clean room, 20,000 square-foot laminating area and secured assembly areas. PCI is procuring capital equipment to accommodate Astrolink and other A2100 configurations. This effort is part of PCI's ongoing commitment to maintain a long-term partnership with Lockheed Martin and provide the best product versatility and value.

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