Satellite News

Rocket: Chang Zheng 4C; Payload: Yaogan VIII, Xi Wang 1; Date: 15 December 2009, 0231 UTC; Launch Site: Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center.

MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. announced that it has signed a US$254 million contract to provide a communication satellite system to the National Space Agency of Ukraine (NSAU).

The U.S. National Polar-orbiting Operational Environment Satellite System (NPOESS) Preparatory Project (NPP) could be delayed again because of problems with a sensor.

The Space Based Infrared Systems Wing at the U.S. Air Force Space Command’s Space and Missile Systems Center announced the successful completion of the GEO Interim Operations Ground System verification testing.

GMV said it will continue to provide mission control of Convection Rotation and planetary Transits (COROT), a space mission extended through 2012.

ViaSat Inc. has completed the previously announced acquisition of privately-held Ka-band satellite broadband service provider WildBlue Communications Inc.

According to NSR’s newest market research and forecast report, “Government and Military Satellite Communications (GMSC), 6th Edition,” users want more capacity and coverage as the gap between demand and transponder supply is growing, which will shift the market towards one of two solutions: proprietary or commercial systems.

Christmas is just round the corner, and the season is warming up to the festive spirit. All retailers who bombarded you with offers and compliments last season have more variety and reason to trouble your choices with this time too.