Optus D1

Launch Date:	October 13, 2006
Launch Site:	Kourou, French Guiana
Launch Vehicle:	Ariane 5
Mission Customer:	SingTel Optus of Australia

On October 13, 2006, Optus D1, the first of two geosynchronous communications satellites built by Orbital for SingTel Optus of Australia, was launched into orbit aboard an Ariane 5 rocket. The launch took place from the European Space Port in French Guiana.

Based on Orbital’s highly successful and flight-proven STAR-2^TM spacecraft platform, Optus D1 will provide Ku-band fixed communications and direct television broadcasting services to Australia and New Zealand. The satellite will generate approximately 4.8 kilowatts of electrical power, and carry 30 total transponders, 24 of which will be active. Optus D1 was designed to replace the Optus B1 satellite, currently in orbit but nearing the end of its life. Life expectancy for Optus D1 is 15+ years.

The Optus D2 satellite is currently in production at Orbital’s Satellite Manufacturing Facility and is expected to launch in 2007.

Watch the live launch webcast here

For more Information:
Orbital’s Optus Webpage
Optus Fact Sheet
Optus Images
Optus Webpage

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