The tracking and data relay satellite (TDRS) K programme has completed its ground detailed design review (GDDR) at a Nasa facility.

The satellite of the K-L series of TDRS systems being built by Boeing will offer Nasa continuous, high-data-rate communications with the space shuttle, the Hubble Space Telescope, the International Space Station and other unmanned scientific satellites in low-Earth orbit.

The review confirmed that design of the satellite is sound and that it will be ready to support current and future satellites in the TDRS fleet.

The GDDR followed the system-level preliminary design review that evaluated program management, systems and subsystems engineering, safety and mission assurance, and ground software and hardware design.

Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems vice president and general manager Craig Cooning said the successful review will lead to the critical design review in early 2010.

The finished design will undergo a final review before integrating the ground system with the spacecraft.