New EXPRESS-AM22 satellite launched into orbit on 29 December, 2003

29.12 : 2003

The EXPRESS-AM22 satellite launched from Baikonur launching pad into orbit aboard Proton launch vehicle on 29 December, 2003. The new satellite will be deployed at 53 E GEO. The EXPRESS-AM22 is expected to be operational following in-orbit tests, and all on-board systems trials.

The EXPRESS-AM22 launch is the first in a five-satellite campaign to enhance the Russian national system capacity by the end of 2005. The launching is made under The Federal Space Program of Russia. As regards the volume of RSCC satellite operations, the RSCC domestic market share accounts for 88% in 2003. By launching new EXPRESS-AM series satellites, RSCC will be able to win positions among 10 top-notch operators worldwide.

The EXPRESS-AM 22 is designed under the order of RSCC by NPO PM in cooperation with ALCATEL SPACE. The spacecraft is equipped with advanced antenna systems. The contour antennas will provide optimal coverage, and enable to use satellite terminals with antennas from 0.6 m. The spacecraft uses the increased power steerable beams (up to 53 dBW). The EXPRESS-AM 22 will offer capacity for digital TV, telephony, high-speed Internet access to customers on its 24 Ku-band transponders (measured in 54 MHz equivalent units). It corresponds to 36 transponders measured in 36 MHz equivalent units. The satellite lifetime is 12 years. The high power Ku-band transponders of the satellite make it ideal to support VSATs, internal and corporate networks, multimedia (distant learning, telemedicine etc.).

RSCC will control each launching phase of the EXPRESS-AM22 satellite, and all on-board systems. To do this, RSCC will deploy EXPRESS-A and EXPRESS-AM Satellite Control Center by using the technical facilities in Moscow, Dubna and Zheleznogorsk. The unified Satellite Control Center will provide continuous in-orbit control over on-board systems of the new EXPRESS-AM22 satellite during its lifetime.

The RSCC Satellite Control Center ("The Center") is designed to control, to track and to maintain the ballistics and technical conditions of the new RSCC orbital fleet. The Center offers the services during the satellites start-up and in-orbit mission under various flight conditions. The RSCC Center enables to improve the satellites control effectiveness (reliability, operational efficiency, prompt decision-making and commands precision)