November 2nd, 2009
The Eutelsat W7 satellite arrived at the Baikonour Cosmodrome on 20 October, and is now in final stages of preparation for launch on 23 November 23 by International Launch Services (ILS) on board a Proton Breeze M booster. The Proton lift-off is scheduled on November 23 at 14.22 UTC.
Built for Eutelsat by Thales Alenia Space, Eutelsats newest and most powerful satellite to date will be co-located with W4 at 36 degrees East to more than double resources at one of Eutelsats fastest-growing neighbourhoods.
Through a configuration of up to 70 transponders connected to five high-performance fixed and steerable beams, W7 will provide coverage of Russia and sub-Saharan Africa for digital broadcasting services including pay-TV, and add significant resources and flexibility for expanding video and telecommunications markets in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and central Asia. The satellite will also enhance service provided since 2000 by SESAT 1 which, following W7s entry into service at 36degrees East, will be redeployed at an alternative location.
W7s launch marks the latest step in Eutelsats far-reaching investment programme of new satellites designed to expand, renew and secure its in-orbit resources. Four further satellites will be orbited by the end of 2011 (W3B, KA-SAT, W3C and Atlantic Bird 7).
(Source: Eutelsat)
