Arianespace and DIRECTV announced today a launch contract for a small DTH satellite. The launch will take place in the second half of 2015 from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana on an Ariane 5.
DIRECTV, one of the world’s leading providers of television entertainment services, will utilize the satellite capacity to expand the delivery of high definition, 3-D television and cinema programming.
The satellite, built by Orbital and based on the Star 2 platform, will have a mass of approximately 3.2 metric tons at launch.
“We are honored that DIRECTV has entrusted yet another satellite launch to Arianespace. This 11th contract inked with DIRECTV reflects the adaptability of our services, which allows us to offer launches for both three-ton and six-ton satellites,” said Stephane Israel, Chairman & CEO of Arianespace.
About DIRECTV
DIRECTV (NASDAQ: DTV) is one of the world’s leading providers of digital television entertainment services delivering a premium video experience through state-of-the-art technology, unmatched programming and industry leading customer service to more than 30.8 million customers in the U.S. and Latin America. In the U.S., DIRECTV offers its 19.7 million customers access to more than 170 HD channels and Dolby-Digital(R) 5.1 theater-quality sound, access to exclusive sports programming such as NFL SUNDAY TICKET(TM), Emmy- award winning technology and higher customer satisfaction than the leading cable companies for ten years running.
DIRECTV Latin America, through its subsidiaries and affiliated companies in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Venezuela, Colombia, and other Latin American countries, leads the pay-TV category in technology, programming and service, delivering an unrivaled digital television experience to more than 11.1 million customers. DIRECTV sports and entertainment properties include three Regional Sports Networks (Northwest, Rocky Mountain and Pittsburgh) as well as a 60 percent interest in Game Show Network. For the most up-to-date information on DIRECTV, please visit www.directv.com.
About Arianespace
Arianespace is the world’s leading satellite launch company, delivering innovation to its customers since 1980. Backed by 21 shareholders and the European Space Agency, the company offers an international workforce renowned for a culture of commitment and excellence. As of September 9, 2013, Arianespace had carried out a total of 215 Ariane launches, 31 Soyuz launches (five at the Guiana Space Center and 26 at Baikonur via Starsem) and two Vega launches. Arianespace has a backlog of 19 Ariane 5, 10 Soyuz and four Vega launches, equaling three years of business.
