The SES-2 commercial communications satellite, built by Orbital for SES WORLD SKIES, was successfully launched on September 21, 2011 aboard an Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou, French Guiana. Based on Orbital's GEOStar-2 ™ bus, SES-2 is the second satellite built by Orbital for SES to be launched in 2011.
SES-2 was produced under a contract for up to five hybrid C- and Ku-band spacecraft awarded to the company by SES WORLD SKIES. SES-1, the first satellite completed under the agreement, was successfully launched in April 2010. The second, SES-3, was successfully boosted into orbit in July 2011. Both satellites are currently in service and performing nominally. SES-1, -2 and -3 carry 24 active C-band and 24 Ku-band transponders of 36 MHz capacity each. The spacecraft generate approximately five kilowatts of payload power and provide comprehensive coverage of North America and the Caribbean.
In addition to its commercial payload, SES-2 also features the Commercially Hosted InfraRed Payload (CHIRP) for the U.S. Air Force. A wide-field of view sensor is integrated onto the satellite to validate space-based infrared technologies from geosynchronous orbit.
About GEOStar™ Satellites
Orbital's highly successful GEOStar line of satellite platforms includes the GEOStar-2 and -3 geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) communications satellites. GEOStar-2 mission capabilities include payload accommodations up to 500 kg and up to 5.0 kW of power. Delivery is accomplished within 24-27 months from contract award. GEOStar-3 mission capabilities include up to 700 kg payload and 7.5 kW of power, with a 27-30 month delivery schedule. Able to accommodate all types of commercial communications payloads and compatible with all major commercial launchers, GEOStar-2 and GEOStar-3 class satellites offer high stability control and a 15-18 year life span, as well as opportunities for hosted payloads.
For more information
Ariane Launch Webcast
Orbital SES-1, -2 & -3 web page
Orbital SES-1, -2 & -3 fact sheet
SES-2 High Resolution Image
SES WORLD SKIES website
Orbital’s hosted payload capabilities
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