Proton-M booster with European Astra-2G telecommunication satellite will be launched from Baikonur spaceport on Sunday, – Roscosmos spokesman reported.
The launch is scheduled for December 28, 00.37, Moscow time. At 00.47 space head comprising Briz-M upper stage and space device will separate from the booster. Launch program will be over by 09.50, Moscow time when Astra-2G satellite separates from the upper stage.
According Khrunichev Centre data Astra-2G space device was manufactured by Airbus Defence and Space (a department of European Airbus Group) on the order of SES (Luxembourg) satellite communication operator.
Astra-2G satellite was designed on the basis of Eurostar E3000. Launch weight of the satellite amounts to 6 tons, wing span upon solar arrays deployment – 40 meters, capacity – 13kW.
Astra-2G will be set into geostationary orbit to provide broadcasting and internet access for Europe, Middle East and Africa.
Astra-2G will be the 24th SES satellite launched with the help of Proton-M booster and the 9th Eurostar satellite in SES orbital group. Three more E3000 space devices for SES needs are being manufactures at the present time.
This launch will be the 401st in the history of Proton-M booster operation.
