OTTAWA, ON, January 4, 2007 – Telesat, one of the world’s leading satellite operators, has announced plans to build and launch Nimiq 5, the latest in the Ottawa-based company’s line of satellites carrying digital television to Canadian viewers. Telesat has selected Space Systems/Loral as the manufacturer for Nimiq 5, which is slated for launch in 2009.
The plan to build and launch Nimiq 5 will benefit several prominent Canadian companies. Bell ExpressVu will have exclusive use of the satellite to provide a wide range of high-definition and specialty television services to its subscribers.
The satellite’s manufacturing plan also includes contracts with the Canadian satellite industry, including multiplexers and switches from Com Dev International Ltd. and antennas from MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates, Ltd. “The procurement of Nimiq 5 underscores Telesat’s strong commitment to continue to make substantial investments to expand our state-of-the-art satellite fleet for the benefit of Canadians,” said Dan Goldberg, Telesat’s president and CEO. “Nimiq 5 will augment Bell ExpressVu’s portfolio of advanced direct-to-home satellite services and we’re delighted to be working with Space Systems/Loral — a leading satellite manufacturer that shares Telesat’s culture of operational excellence and technical innovation — on this important mission.”
A high-power satellite, Nimiq 5 will be equipped with 32 Ku-band transponders. It will occupy Telesat’s orbital position at 72.7 degrees West Longitude and have a lifespan of more than 15 years.
About Telesat
Headquartered in Ottawa, Telesat Canada is one of the early pioneers in satellite communications and systems management. Created in 1969, Telesat made history three years later with the launch of Anik A1, the world’s first domestic communications satellite in geostationary orbit, operated by a commercial company. Telesat operates a fleet of satellites for the provision of broadcast distribution and telecommunications services, and is a highly respected consultant and partner in satellite ventures around the world. Telesat has offices throughout Canada, in the United States and in Brazil. On December 18th, 2006, Telesat’s parent company, BCE Inc., agreed to sell the satellite operator for $3.42 billion to a new acquisition company formed by Canada’s Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments) and Loral Space & Communications Inc.
For more information:
Dan Tisch or Karen Passmore (media only)
Argyle Communications
(416) 968-7311, ext. 223 or 228
dtisch@argylecommunications.com
kpassmore@argylecommunnications.com
Marilynn Wright
Telesat
(613) 748-0123
m.wright@telesat.ca
