Satellite News

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently granted TerreStar Networks Inc., a majority owned subsidiary of Motient Corporation (MNCP), a reservation of 20 MHz of spectrum in the 2 GHz frequency band.

Eutelsat Communications announced that its Hotbird 2 satellite has been redeployed to 9 degrees East. Rebranded Eurobird 9, the satellite’s entry into service marks the opening of a new video neighbourhood, which is adjacent to Eutelsat’s premium Hotbird position. Reception of channels from both locations is possible with off-the-shelf dual-feed domestic dishes.

Intelsat, Ltd. reported results for the three month period ending 31 March 2007.

Dr. Bashir Gwandu, member of the governing board of NigComSat Limited, gave a few additional details regarding the payload of NIGCOMSAT 1.

Metop-A, Europe’s first polar-orbiting meteorological satellite, was officially declared operational after six months of commissioning.

A major glitch has occurred during testing of the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Orbital Express spacecraft, reports New Scientist.

Russia’s Progress design bureau plans to sign a contract with the European Space Agency at Le Bourget air show for the launch of four Soyuz-ST carrier rockets from the Kourou space centre in French Guiana.

Mobile Satellite Ventures LP and joint venture partner Mobile Satellite Ventures (Canada) announced that MSV has contracted with Sea Launch and ILS for separate launches in 2010 of the company’s planned two high-powered, next-generation satellites.