Ariane 5 Launches Two Communications Satellites

Arianespace launched two communications satellites using its heavy-lift Ariane 5 rocket: Intelsat 17 and HYLAS 1.


Intelsat 17 is a 5,500-kg. satellite built by Space Systems/Loral and carrying 25 Ku-band and 24 C-band transponders. The satellite will be positioned at an orbital slot of 66 deg. East, delivering a range of communications services for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and India. It will replace the Intelsat 702 satellite.


HYLAS 1 is the first satellite lofted by Arianespace for Avanti Communications of the UK. HYLAS 1 carries 8 Ka-band beam transponders for delivering high speed, two-way data services across Europe. The satellite will be positioned at 33.5 deg. West. The Ka-band earth stations for HYLAS 1 are located at Goonhilly and Lands End, Cornwall UK. HYLAS also offers a Ku-band broadcast capability. HYLAS 1 was designed and built by EADS Astrium in partnership with the Indian Space Research Organisation. Avanti's second satellite called HYLAS 2 is fully funded and will launch in Q2 2012. It will extend Avanti's coverage to Africa and the Middle East. HYLAS 3 is currently in design.


This launch was the 54th mission for the Ariane 5 vehicle and the 198th flight of an Ariane family launcher.
http://www.arianespace.com
http://www.avantiplc.com