EXPRESS-AM22 satellite will be launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome by Proton launch vehicle on the 29th of December 2003, at 02:00 a.m. (MSK). RSCC will provide the launch on-line video at www.rscc.ru

26.12 : 2003

On the 29th of December 2003, at 02:00 a.m. Moscow Time, Proton launch vehicle will deliver the EXPRESS-AM22 communications and broadcasting satellite into transfer orbit. The new satellite is planned to be positioned at 53 E GEO. Following in-orbit tests and on-board systems trials, EXPRESS-AM22 will be put into operation.

The scheduled launch is a new stage in the development of the Federal Space Program of the Russian Federation. EXPRESS-AM22 is the first of five Express-AM series satellites that will be manufactured and deployed in GEO by 2005.

The EXPRESS-AM22 is designed under the order of RSCC by NPO PM in cooperation with Alcatel Space. The spacecraft is equipped with state-of-the-art antenna systems. The contour antennas ensure optimal coverage and enable to use satellite terminals with antennas from 0.6 meter. The spacecraft steerable beams have enhanced power parameters (up to 53 dBW). The EXPRESS-AM22 will provide digital TV&radio broadcasting, telephony, broadband Internet access, VSAT service, internal and corporate networking, multimedia (distant learning, telemedicine etc.).

Ministry of Communications and Informatization of the Russian Federation and RSCC will provide the EXPRESS-AM22 launch on-line video from the Baikonur pad at www.rscc.ru

Live broadcasting will be started at 1:45 a.m. Moscow time, on 29th December, 2003: mms://212.45.25.39/pusk (Windows Media Player is required to view the launching)