SSL-built satellite for Intelsat begins post-launch maneuvers according to plan

Space Systems/Loral (SSL), a Palo Alto, CA-based provider of commercial satellites and subsidiary of MDA, announced on August 21 that a satellite designed and built for Intelsat S.A., the leading provider of satellite services, was launched yesterday and is successfully performing post-launch maneuvers according to plan. The satellite, Intelsat 34, deployed its solar arrays on schedule following its launch aboard an Ariane 5 launch vehicle from the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. It will begin firing its main thruster later today in order to propel it toward its final geosynchronous orbit.

“We are honored to continue to work with Intelsat as one of its trusted spacecraft suppliers,” said John Celli, president of SSL. “The success of Intelsat 34, which will support content distribution and the delivery of broadband connectivity to maritime and aeronautical providers, is the result of our long-term shared commitment to quality, teamwork, and outstanding service to our customers.”

Featuring C- and Ku-band payloads, Intelsat 34 will support the expanding demand for Direct-to-Home television service and broadcast television distribution in Latin America. It will also provide broadband services for maritime and aeronautical use in the North Atlantic region. Upon reaching its final orbital position of 304.5 degrees East longitude, Intelsat 34 will replace Intelsat 805 and Galaxy 11.

“We are pleased that Intelsat 34 is in-orbit and performing according to plan,” said Thierry Guillemin, EVP and Chief Technology Officer of Intelsat. “SSL has been a trusted partner for many years, as Intelsat 34 marks the 50^th satellite that SSL has built for us.  With technology in our sector advancing rapidly, Intelsat is working closely with our manufacturers, including SSL, to incorporate innovations that will support the high performance, better economics, and increased accessibility that will broaden the appeal of satellite-based solutions.”

Intelsat 34 is based on the powerful SSL 1300 platform, which has the flexibility to support a broad range of applications and technology advances. The satellite is designed to provide service for 16 years or more. SSL has two additional satellites for Intelsat in its backlog.  With this launch, there are 80 SSL-built GEO satellites currently on orbit.

Source: MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.