The communications satellite product life cycle goes through seven separate stages.
Preconcept
The preconcept phase identifies the need for a new satellite design.
This need may be identified based on the limitations of existing designs.
Existing satellite designs may no longer be capable of supporting new mission objectives.
The purpose of the preconcept phase is to fully identify the new need.
Development of a complete mission profile, for the new satellite.
Identification of existing resources, and those that need to be developed.
Establish priorities for the acquisition process.
Concept
Demonstration / Validation
Full-Scale Development
Production
Deployment / Operation
Disposal
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