Telstar 14/Estrela do Sul 1 update WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2004
spaceflightnow.com
Despite the stuck solar array that will significantly hamper its
mission, the newly-launched Telstar 14/Estrela do Sul 1
communications satellite will begin limited service in March,
officials announced today.
Loral Space and Communications has released the following
statement:
"As previously reported, the Telstar 14/Estrela do Sul 1
communications satellite fully deployed its South solar array but
only partially deployed its North solar array. An investigation into
the cause of the anomaly and the implementation of any corrective
actions is ongoing.
"Space Systems/Loral, the manufacturer of the satellite, is raising
the satellite to geostationary orbit. Telstar 14/Estrela do Sul is
generating enough power to operate a minimum of 17 Ku-band
transponders, making it capable of meeting immediate customer
requirements, as well as Brazilian government requirements.
"The satellite, to be operated by Loral Skynet do Brasil at 63
degrees West longitude, was sent into space on January 10, 2004
on a Boeing Sea Launch Zenit-3SL rocket from the Odyssey
Launch Platform, positioned on the equator in the Pacific Ocean.
It is insured for partial and total losses up to a maximum of $250
million." |
