APT Satellite
Might Opt For Proton to Launch Apstar 5
APT Satellite Co. Ltd., Hong Kong,
released a request for proposal on June  5
for Apstar 5. Three U.S. companies, both
European satellite manufacturers and an Asian satellite
manufacturer responded with bids. APT Satellite has indicated a
willingness to change launch suppliers if a U.S. company wins the
contract.
Historically, APT Satellite has
used only Long March rockets for the launch of its satellites, but
APT Satellite might be willing to permit the satellite to launch
on a Proton. APT Satellite will include in the satellite contract
a requirement for a firm time limit for securing government
licenses to deliver the satellite to its intended launch site, as
a contract condition for whichever company wins the bid to build
the satellite. Companies must obtain an export license for the
contract to remain in force. The satellite is planned for launch in
late 2002.
The satellite will be equipped with
as many as 50 C-band and Ku-band transponders, and will be located
at 138°E. Apstar 1, which Apstar 5 will replace, was launched in
July 1994, and its expected design life expires mid-2004.
Copyright 2001 - Andrews Space & Technology
Andrews Space & Technology Privacy
Statement and Copyright Information
SPACEandTECH Digest is a weekly roundup of the latest industry news of interest
to the space professional. SPACEandTECH Flash! is an internet push
service offered by Andrews Space & Technology to bring the
latest on orders, launches, and important breaking news to your
desktop. SPACEandTECH Digest and SPACEandTECH Flash! are part of
the Andrews Space & Technology www.spaceandtech.com
website, a website designed to serve the information needs of the
space industry.
If you would like to subscribe to the SPACEandTECH
Flash!
(currently a free service), contact the www.spaceandtech.com
Editor-in-Chief, Joe Hopkins, at editor@spaceandtech.com
|
