Stentor
After considerable debate, France has chosen the Stentor technology satellite as its next major investment in space-based communications. The GEO spacecraft is scheduled for launch by 1999 to test both civil and military communications systems. Originally envisioned as a 2.5 metric-ton satellite, the chosen Stentor design required only 1.5 metric tons at launch. An ion propulsion system alone reduced the spacecraft mass by 600 kg by eliminating a large liquid propellant propulsion system. Gallium arsenide solar cells will provide the 1.8 kW needed to power the satellite and its Ku-band payload. Matra Marconi, Alcatel, and Aerospatiale will bear primary responsibility for the spacecraft (References 67-69).
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