At the end of 2003 Orbital was awarded a firm order for two GEO satellites by Sydney, Australia based Optus Networks, Pty. Then, in early 2007, Optus awarded Orbital a contract for a third satellite. Based on Orbital’s STAR platform, the satellites will provide Ku-band fixed communications and direct television broadcasting services to Australia and New Zealand.
The three satellites will initiate Optus’ D-series of satellites. The first two satellites, known as D1 and D2, generate approximately 3.8 kilowatts of payload power to service 24 active transponders. The third satellite, D3, will generate approximately 5 kilowatts of payload power to service up to 32 active transponders.
Performance:
Transponder Power:
Stabilization:
Launch Mass:
Orbit:
Mission Life:
D1
3800 W
zero momentum
3-axis stabilized
2,300 kg (5,071 lbs)
160° E
15 years
D2
3800W
zero momentum
3-axis stabilized
2,375 kg (5,230 lbs)
152° E
15 years
D3
5000 W
zero momentum
3-axis stabilized
2,500 kg (5,512 lbs)
156° E
15 years
Status:
The D1 spacecraft was launched on October 13, 2006. The D2 spacecraft was launched on October 5, 2007. The D3 spacecraft is in its design phase and scheduled for launch in 2009.
Coverage: Australia
and
New Zealand
Customer: Optus Networks, Pty. – Sydney, Australia
Mission: Ku-band fixed communications and direct television to Australia
and
New Zealand
