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Star One C2 telecommunication satellite is ready for launch

14 April 2008

Cannes, April 14 2008 - To be launched by an Ariane 5 ECA rocket on April 18th, Star One C2 is dedicated to the Brazilian satellite operator Star One, owned by Embratel (80%) and GE International Holdings (20%). This launch will reinforce Star One's strategic position as the major regional operator in Latin America.

Thales Alenia Space has already manufactured Star One C1, the first of the "C-series", which was successfully launched in November 2007 and started to expand the operator's scope of services. The new satellite Star One C2 features a cutting-edge commercial payload that will provide TV, Internet and voice services for South America, Mexico and Florida, through its hybrid C- and Ku-band payload, as well as an X-band payload for military exclusive use.

Based on Thales Alenia Space Spacebus 3000B3 platform, Star One C2 carries 28 transponders in C-band, 16 in Ku-band and 1 in X-band. This satellite weights 4100 kg at launch and has an electrical power of 10.5 kW (beginning of life) and will be positioned at 70° West.

Gustavo Silbert, President of Star One says: "Star One C2 will be placed at the most important broadcasting position of the Brazilian market, 70° W, and will be providing the largest share of the video traffic in Brazil".

Pascale Sourisse, President and CEO of Thales Alenia Space notes: "We are proud to deliver this second new-generation satellite to Star One, which will offer enhanced performance and opportunities to Star One and its customers. This is a major event for us at Thales Alenia Space, since it further bolsters our presence in the key South American market for commercial and military satellite communications".

Thales Alenia Space will participate in 23 launches this year including six communication satellites1, five telecommunications payloads2, four observation satellites3, two scientific satellites4, two observation payloads5, one navigation satellite6, three modules for the International Space Station7.

1 Star One C2, Turksat 3A, Chinasat 9, AMC-21, Sicral 1B, Ciel 2
2 Express AM33, Amos 3, BADR6, Express AM44, Express MD1
3 GOCE, Jason 2, COSMO SkyMed 3, SMOS
4 Herschel, Planck
5 Sar Lupe 4, Sar Lupe 5
6 Giove B
7 Colombus, ATV, MPLM