The satellites, JCSAT-8, which was built for JSAT Corp. of Tokyo, and ASTRA 3A, built for SES ASTRA of Luxembourg, are the first Boeing-built satellites to launch together on a single launch vehicle in five years. Both companies are long-time customers of Boeing Space and Communications (S&C). The satellites were built in El Segundo, Calif., by Boeing Satellite Systems, the satellite operations unit of Boeing S&C.

"Our last dual launch was in early 1996," said Randy Brinkley, president of Boeing Satellite Systems. "Getting two different customers' satellites ready for the same launch can only happen as a result of a tremendous and highly coordinated effort by our factory, our customers and the launch provider."

JCSAT-8 is the 62nd Boeing 601 to be delivered. With 84 ordered to date, the Boeing 601 is the world's most-purchased satellite model. JCSAT-8 is the fifth Boeing 601 and the seventh Boeing spacecraft for the JSAT fleet. JCSAT-8 will provide coverage to Japan, East Asia, Australia and Hawaii from the orbital slot of 154 degrees East longitude.

Community Email This Article Comment On This Article Related Links Boeing Satellite Systems SpaceDaily Search SpaceDaily Subscribe To SpaceDaily Express The latest information about the Commercial Satellite Industry SPACEMART Stratos Steps Closer To Xantic Acquisition Bethesda MD (SPX) Jan 5, 2006 Stratos Global recently announced it had taken a step closer toward the completion of the acquisition of Xantic, having received positive advice from the Works' Council in the Netherlands, and executed a definitive agreement to purchase Xantic from KPN and Telstra Corporation.

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