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Satnews Daily
October 21st, 2014

In-Orbit Testing Is Successful... Optus 10 Now Drifting To 164 Degrees East


[SatNews] Optus has announced that its Optus 10 communications satellite has successfully completed a series of in-orbit tests following its launch from French Guiana on September 11, 2014.*


Artistic rendition of the Optus 10 satellite.

Image courtesy of SSL.

The in-orbit tests were conducted using Optus ground facilities in Sydney, Canberra and Perth, with Optus representatives working with satellite manufacturer, Space Systems / Loral’s Mission Control Center in the United States. The Optus 10 payload is designed with a high level of flexibility, enabling it to operate in either the Ku-band Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) or Broadcast Satellite Services (BSS) bands. Optus 10 has commenced drifting from its test slot to its operating location at 164 degrees East, which it is expected to reach by the end of October 2014.

Paul Sheridan, Vice President of Optus Satellite, said, “It’s always a great feeling once a satellite completes its rigorous testing schedule and is verified to be ready for operation. The team has done a fantastic job of completing the testing ahead of plan.”

Once Optus 10 completes its two week drift and reaches its operating location, it will be placed into service. It will join Optus’ existing satellite fleet which supports corporate, enterprise and government customers throughout Australia, New Zealand and parts of the Antarctic.

The Optus infosite may be accessed via http://www.optus.com.au/

*September 12, 2014, Australian Eastern Standard Time