# ICOR-SV

> technology demonstration satellite by Lockheed Martin

**Wikidata**: [Q138915389](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q138915389)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/icor-sv

## Summary
ICOR-SV is a technology demonstration satellite developed by Lockheed Martin Space, designed to test and validate experimental technologies in orbit using the LM-400 spacecraft bus. Scheduled for launch on March 12, 2026, from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West aboard a Firefly Alpha rocket, it serves as a flying testbed for proving new space technologies before operational deployment.

## Key Facts
- **Entity Type**: Technology demonstration spacecraft (artificial satellite subclass)
- **Manufacturer**: Lockheed Martin Space
- **Operator**: Lockheed Martin Space
- **Country of Origin**: United States
- **Spacecraft Bus**: LM-400
- **Alternate Names**: LM-400 Tech Demo, LM-400 TDS
- **COSPAR ID**: 2026-046A
- **Launch Date**: March 12, 2026, at 00:50 UTC
- **Launch Vehicle**: Firefly Alpha (Flight FLTA007)
- **Launch Site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West
- **Power System**: Solar cells
- **Primary Mission**: Validate new space technologies in orbit as an experimental testbed

## FAQs

**What is the purpose of ICOR-SV?**
ICOR-SV serves as a flying testbed to prove whether cutting-edge components, materials, or systems can survive and function properly in the harsh environment of space before they are deployed on operational missions.

**Who built and operates ICOR-SV?**
Lockheed Martin Space is both the manufacturer and operator of the ICOR-SV satellite.

**When and where will ICOR-SV launch?**
The satellite is scheduled to launch on March 12, 2026, at 00:50 UTC from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West aboard a Firefly Alpha rocket (Flight FLTA007).

**What spacecraft platform does ICOR-SV use?**
ICOR-SV is built on the LM-400 spacecraft bus, a platform developed by Lockheed Martin Space for technology demonstration and other missions.

**How is ICOR-SV powered?**
The satellite is powered by solar cells, which convert sunlight into electrical energy to power its systems and payloads.

## Why It Matters
ICOR-SV represents a critical step in space technology validation, serving as the bridge between laboratory development and operational deployment for new space systems. By testing experimental technologies in the actual space environment, ICOR-SV allows engineers to gather empirical data on how components perform under radiation, extreme temperatures, and microgravity conditions. This validation process dramatically reduces the risk and cost of future missions by identifying potential issues before technologies are integrated into expensive operational satellites.

The mission is particularly significant as a demonstration of the LM-400 spacecraft bus, which could serve as a versatile platform for future technology validation and operational missions. Technology demonstration spacecraft like ICOR-SV enable the space industry to innovate more rapidly and confidently, ultimately advancing capabilities in communications, navigation, Earth observation, and scientific research.

## Notable For
- **LM-400 Platform Validation**: Demonstrates Lockheed Martin's LM-400 spacecraft bus capabilities in orbit
- **Firefly Alpha Launch**: Part of the Flight FLTA007 mission, showcasing commercial launch vehicle capabilities
- **Technology Testbed**: Provides orbital validation for experimental space technologies before operational use
- **Solar-Powered Design**: Utilizes solar cell power generation for sustained orbital operations
- **Vandenberg Launch**: Launches from the historic Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West facility
- **U.S. Space Innovation**: Represents American advancement in satellite technology and commercial space partnerships

## Body

### Mission Overview
ICOR-SV is a technology demonstration satellite developed and operated by Lockheed Martin Space, designed to serve as an orbital testbed for validating new space technologies. The spacecraft belongs to the broader category of technology demonstration spacecraft, which are artificial satellites specifically built to test and validate experimental technologies in orbit before they are used on operational missions.

### Technical Specifications
The satellite is built on the LM-400 spacecraft bus, a platform developed by Lockheed Martin Space. This bus provides the structural framework, power systems, attitude control, and other essential subsystems needed to support the satellite's technology demonstration payloads. The spacecraft is powered by solar cells, which generate electricity from sunlight to power onboard systems throughout its mission.

### Launch Details
ICOR-SV is scheduled for launch on March 12, 2026, at 00:50 UTC. The launch will be conducted from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West, a facility located at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The launch vehicle is a Firefly Alpha rocket, specifically designated as Flight FLTA007. This mission represents a collaboration between Lockheed Martin Space and Firefly Aerospace, demonstrating the integration of commercial launch services with advanced satellite technology.

### Mission Significance
As a technology demonstration spacecraft, ICOR-SV plays a vital role in the space technology development cycle. These experimental satellites serve as flying testbeds that prove whether cutting-edge components, materials, or systems can survive and function properly in the harsh environment of space. By validating technologies in actual orbital conditions, missions like ICOR-SV help reduce the risk and cost of future operational missions.

The data gathered from ICOR-SV's technology demonstrations will provide engineers with critical information about how new technologies perform under radiation, extreme temperatures, and microgravity conditions. This empirical data is essential for refining designs and ensuring reliability before technologies are deployed on operational satellites that may cost hundreds of millions of dollars and support critical services.

### Operator and Manufacturer
Lockheed Martin Space serves as both the manufacturer and operator of ICOR-SV. Lockheed Martin is a major aerospace and defense company with extensive experience in satellite development and space systems. The company's involvement in ICOR-SV spans the entire mission lifecycle, from design and construction through launch and on-orbit operations.

### Classification and Identification
The satellite carries the COSPAR ID 2026-046A, which provides a unique international identifier for tracking and cataloging purposes. ICOR-SV is also known by alternate names including LM-400 Tech Demo and LM-400 TDS, reflecting its role as a technology demonstration mission for the LM-400 spacecraft bus platform.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/icor-sv.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report