Boeing Satellite Systems has signed a contract with Arianespace for the launch of the Société Européenne des Satellites (SES) Astra 3A communications satellite aboard an Ariane 5 vehicle in early 2002. Astra 3A is a Boeing 376HP spin-stabilised satellite bus equipped with 20 transponders which will be located at 23.5°E in geostationary orbit. The launch will be the 10th booked for SES by Arianespace, seven of which have been launched. Arianespace's orderbook now stands at 47, including 38 satellites and nine European Space Agency Automatic Transfer Vehicles for the International Space Station.
Source: Flight International
