From the date of issue until a few days ago the Astra 1M has realized several transmission tests in the position of 33,5th East. The tests have given his positive results therefore the new satellite can already come into operation in the assigned position, that of 19,2nd East.

The Astra 1M has the mission to replace the Astra 1H to provide safety capacity and reserves in the geostationary orbit of 19,2nd East. It is equipped by 36 transpondedores assets in band Ku.

The acquisition of this satellite in April, 2005 anticipated to the provisional program of replacement of the satellites Astra with the target to assure the growth of the biggest operator of the world of satellites, SES Astra.

The area of coverage of the satellite will be for the whole Europe. The pipes in traveling wave TWTA of 150 Watts will allow an ideal reception for the satellite dishes of limited diameter. The duration of life of the satellite is estimated in approximately 15 years.

The system of satellites Astra is the satellites operator leader in Europe, chosen by many broadcasting stations of television and radio and providers of multimedia services for the emission openly and of payment and services of wide band to more than 92 million users of TV for satellite and cable of Europe.


(SatCesc, 29-12-08)