The WGS system is a multi-spacecraft constellation designed to provide improved communications support for America's warfighters. Boeing is under contract to build three WGS spacecraft, and the U.S. Air Force has authorized the company to begin non-recurring engineering and advanced procurement of parts for a fourth WGS satellite.

In tests conducted at Boeing's Satellite Development Center in El Segundo, Calif., the WGS team exposed the spacecraft to vibration and acoustic tests to ensure it will withstand the stresses of ground transportation and launch into space. Boeing is preparing the first WGS satellite for launch in the second quarter of 2007.

During the vibration test, engineers shook the WGS spacecraft in three independent axes to test its ability to withstand the forces of launch vehicle liftoff and ascent into orbit. The nine-day vibration test included multiple runs at progressively higher levels to demonstrate that the spacecraft will survive in predicted environments.

The spacecraft also successfully passed acoustic stress testing, Boeing said in a statement, during which the WGS team used high-powered speakers to verify the spacecraft's ability to tolerate the high sound pressure levels associated with specific launch events.

Launch pad decibel levels are nearly four times higher than the levels found near a jet engine. The acoustic test chamber simulates the launch noise of several launch vehicles in use today.

The WGS also passed a series of tests that confirmed its deployable appendages, such as the solar wings, heat radiator panels and Ka-band antennas, will release correctly.

Boeing is preparing the spacecraft for thermal vacuum testing, which will confirm its ability to operate in a vacuum and under the extreme temperatures of space.

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