Arianespace has re-scheduled the launch of the new SES Astra 2F satellite for September 28, 2012.
The Arianespace’s Ariane 5 mission was originally scheduled on September 21, when the Astra 1F would be launched along with the GSAT-10.
The satellite will be launched into space from the European Space Centre in French Guiana on board an Ariane 5 ECA rocket between 23:28pm and 00:05am (September 28-29, 2012 Central European Summer Time; 17.28 – 18.05 EDT on 28.9.12).
Astra 2F was built by EADS Astrium in Toulouse using a Eurostar E3000 platform. The multi-mission satellite will be located at 28.2 degrees East and carry Ku and Ka-band payloads for the delivery of DTH and next generation broadband services in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
28.2 degrees East is one of SES’ prime orbital positions serving premium broadcasters, including BSkyB, the BBC, ITV and Channel 5. In addition, 28.2 degrees East is used to broadcast numerous channels of growing DTH-platforms in sub-Saharan Africa.
Astra 2F is the first of a series of three satellites that will be positioned at the 28.2 degrees East neighbourhood in several steps between 2012 and 2014 to provide replacement capacity and enhanced capabilities at this orbital location. Astra 2E and Astra 2G are currently scheduled for launch in Q2 2013 and Q1 2014.
