PanAmSat's PAS-6 is to be de-orbited after a failure in the communications satellite's power system. Airclaims, meanwhile, reports that the company's Galaxy 10R satellite has suffered a malfunction in its primary xenon ion propulsion system.
PAS-6, located at 43°W in geosynchronous orbit, was one of two satellites providing back-up services for PanAmSat's international fleet. The Space Systems/Loral FS-1300-series spacecraft was launched in August 1997, and was expected to remain in service until 2012. PanAmSat will record a $100 million non-cash charge in the first quarter for the loss of PAS-6, but does not expect its 2004 revenues to be affected.
Galaxy 10R, a Boeing 601HP-series satellite located at 123°W, was expected to have have an operational life of 15 years when it was launched in January 2000. Thirteen Boeing 601HP- and 702- satellites have suffered xenon ion propulsion system malfunctions similar to that reported for Galaxy 10R.
Several Boeing 702 platform-based satellites have also experienced severe electrical power shortages as a result of degradation of new power concentrator panels, resulting in insurance claims.
TIM FURNISS / LONDON
Source: Flight International
