ACeS
Garuda 1 Experiences Antenna Problems
 Garuda
1, a recently launched mobile-telephone satellite, is likely to have
reduced call-handling capacity due to unexplained problems with the
main antenna. The A2100 AX satellite was manufactured by Lockheed
Martin Commercial Space Systems, Sunnyvale, and  launched
in February 2000 with an expected design life of 13 years. The 4300
kg satellite operates in the L-band and is located at 123°E.
Very
large deployable satellite antennas, more than 10 meters in
diameter, make it possible to address the hand-held cellular
telecommunication market. The Garuda 1 uses two 12-meter diameter
antennas.
AceS
is expected to file an insurance claim for the lost capacity. The
problem is believed to be irreparable, but should not affect Aces'
plans to develop its business for at least several years.
Asia
Cellular Satellite International, Bermuda, owns AceS, with primary
shareholders being PT Pasifik Satelit Nusantara (PSN), Jasmine
International Overseas Company Ltd., Lockheed Martin Global
Telecommunications, and the Philippines Long Distance Telephone
Company (PLDT).
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