ArianeSpace successfully launched Koreasat-3 a geostationary satellite manufactured for Korea Telecom by Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems. Launch was at 7.34pm local time in French Guiana or 6.34pm EDT and will be positioned at 116 degrees east.
The Koreasat-3 satellite is configured to provide both fixed and direct broadcast services. Korea Telecom's new A2100 has 24 Ku-Band (Fixed Satellite Service), six Ku-Band (Direct Broadcast Service), and three Ka-Band transponders. It also features a steerable antenna providing an improved coverage capability.
Korea Telecom is Korea's foremost telecommunications company and is responsible for operating the Koreasat system. The company is dedicated to developing new technologies to keep pace with Korea's high growth economy.
"This program is an excellent example of partnering for success," said Peter Kujawski, President, Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems.
"This is the third satellite we have supplied to Korea Telecom, representing the pinnacle of a long standing commitment to provide the best satellite-based services to the Korean people," Kujawski.
Koreasat-3 was manufactured with the participation of a Korean team which includes: Daewoo Heavy Industries, Doowon, Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute, Halla Engineering and Heavy Industries, Hyundai Electronics Industries, Korea Aerospace Research Institute, and Korean Air.
Their involvement as subcontractors is part of a long-term effort to build cooperation between Commercial Space Systems and the Korean partners in the manufacturing of spacecraft components. This continues the tradition started with Koreasat-1 and 2.
The Koreasat-3 program marks the continuation of a long-term relationship between Korea Telecom and Lockheed Martin, which began with Koreasat-1 and 2. In addition to providing the satellite, the program also involved upgrading existing ground systems.
Lockheed Martin designed and delivered the Republic of Korea's first domestic satellite system, which consists of two Series 3000 satellites, Koreasat-1 and 2, and a ground control facility. The satellites provide direct-to-home broadcasting service, intercity trunking, multi-speed data transfer, and Very Small Aperture Terminal services. Koreasat-1 was launched in August 1995 and Koreasat-2 was launched in January 1996.
