Flight International online news 10:00GMT: Thai satellite communications company Shin Satellite and Arianespace have signed a launch contract for the Thaicom 5 satellite.
Thaicom 5 is slated for an Ariane 5 launch in 2006 from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.
It will be the fifth satellite launched by Arianespace for the privately-owned Thai operator, and follows the successful launch of Thaicom 4 (Ipstar) on 11 August 2005.
Built by Alcatel Alenia Space, Thaicom 5 will weigh about 2,800 kg at launch, and will be fitted with 24 C-band and 14 Ku-band transponders.
It will provide telecom and television services throughout the Asia-Pacific from its orbital position at 78.5 degrees East and will eventually replace the Thaicom1 and 2 satellites.
ROSS BENTLEY/LONDON
Source: Airline Business
