Rocket launches new US, Aust satellites

[Michaelangelica]

The rocket, the 34rd launch of an Ariane 5 and the fourth this year, lifted off and successfully placed both satellites into geostationary transfer orbit, the company said.

 

Intelsat 11, built by Orbital Sciences Corp, will provide television and data transmission services over Latin America.

 

Optus D2, also built by Orbital Sciences Corp, will provide direct television, Internet, telephone and data services over Australia and New Zealand.

 

The mission also allowed Arianespace to test the EPS Storable Propellant upper stage section, which will also be used in the Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV), a supply ship to be launched by the Ariane 5 for the first time next year that is Europe's contribution to the International Space Station.

Rocket launches new US, Aust satellites - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)