RSCC has ordered two satellites Series Express AT and Express AM8

RSCC has ordered two satellites Series Express AT and Express AM8

The Russian national satellite operator RSCC (Russian Satellite Communications Company) ordered the making and delivery of three telecommunications satellites Express AT1, Express AT2 and Express AM8.

Jointly build satellites of OAO ISS Academician MF Reshetnev and Thales Alenia Space.

Satellite Express AT1 replace existing satellites Bonum 1 at the orbital position 56°E. Express AT1 will be equipped with 32 Ku-band transponders.

Express AT2 will have 16 transponders. Satellite will be positioned at 36°E and is expected to supply services for the European part of Russia, the Urals and eastern Siberia. Capacity of the AT1 and AT2 satellite will use existing Russian DTH platform. Start the two satellites are scheduled for the end of 2012.

Satellite Express AM8 will be equipped with 42 transponders in C, Ku and L band and will be located at the westernmost RSCC orbital position - that is, at 14 degree west. Express AM8 will provide communications and broadcasting in Europe, Africa and the Caribbean. Start of regular service satellite is scheduled for 2013.

"Satellites Express AT1 and Express AT2 opens new perspectives for the development of direct broadcasting in the Russian Federation, including the provision of high-definition TV and 3D format," said CEO of RSCC Yuri Prokhorov.