HUGHES Communications' Galaxy 10 satellite will be the first payload of the new McDonnell Douglas (MDC) Delta 3 booster on its maiden flight in 1998.
The HS-601HP Galaxy satellite is one of ten payloads which Hughes assigned to the Delta 3 in 1995. With Hughes exercising another Delta 3 launch option, also for 1998, there now 11 contracts signed for the MDC booster.
The Delta 3, a derivative of the Delta 2, will be equipped with a larger payload fairing; larger, solid-propellant, strap-on motors; new first-stage fuel tank; and a cryogenic second stage powered by the Pratt & Whitney RL-10B-2.
Source: Flight International
