PARIS---Alcatel Space announced today the signature of a contract with Eutelsat to deliver the W5 communications satellite. Ready for launch this summer, this new satellite will offer a full portfolio of services that include video distribution and contribution links, occasional-use video and particularly Satellite NewsGathering (SNG), as well as Internet backbone connections.
Using the Spacebus 3000 platform, W5 will carry 24 wideband Ku-band transponders which can be operated simultaneously for fixed pan-European coverage. It also has two mobile spotbeams, which can be steered to cover different market zones, for greater flexibility.
The satellite has onboard power of about 6 kW and a design life exceeding 12 years. It will weigh over 3,000 kilograms at launch.
With this delivery to Eutelsat, Alcatel Space program of satellite launches to come in 2002 increases to eight including Stellat 5, Stentor, Hot BirdTM 6, MSG (Meteosat Second Generation), Astra 1K, Hispasat 1D and AMC 9.
Alcatel Space ranks among the world's leading space systems prime contractors. Leveraging its dual expertise in civil and military applications, Alcatel Space develops satellite technology solutions for telecommunications, navigation, optical and radar observation, meteorology, and scientific applications. The company is also Europe's number one prime contractor for Earth observation, meteorology and navigation ground segments, as well as space systems operations. A fully-owned subsidiary of Alcatel (100%), Alcatel Space generated 2001 revenues of 1.4 billion Euros and has 6,000 employees.
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Alcatel Space and Eutelsat Sign Contract for W5 Communications Satellite
