Boeing [NYSE: BA] and MEASAT Satellite Systems Sdn Bhd today announced that Boeing has acquired the first signal from the MEASAT-3 satellite following its successful launch on Dec. 11. The satellite now will maneuver itself to a geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above Earth where a series of spacecraft deployments and tests will verify that it is ready to begin service.
The International Launch Services Proton/Breeze M rocket lifted off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan carrying the 10,800 pound payload at 6:28 p.m. Eastern time. Boeing received the spacecraft's first signals approximately 9 hours and 18 minutes later.
"We are delighted with the successful launch of the MEASAT-3 satellite," said Paul Brown-Kenyon, chief operating officer of MEASAT Satellite Systems Sdn Bhd. "After in-orbit testing, the satellite will be brought into service and play a key role in supporting the growth of the vibrant DTH, Broadcasting and Telecommunication industries across Malaysia, South East Asia and the wider Asia-Pacific region."
"MEASAT-3 is the third Boeing-built satellite for MEASAT, and we are proud of our heritage working with a great customer," said Stephen T. O'Neill, president of Boeing Satellite Systems International, Inc. "Flawless execution by very talented people all over the world has contributed to this successful launch and acquisition."
Boeing built MEASAT-3, a 601 model satellite, at its satellite manufacturing facility in El Segundo, Calif. Boeing also manufactures the larger 702 model, the world's most powerful communications satellite, two lines of satellites designed to support mobile communications, and a series of global positioning satellites and military communications satellites.