Intelsat, operator of the world’s first Globalized Network, has launched the Intelsat 36 satellite designed to enhance Intelsat’s media neighbourhoods serving Africa and the Indian Ocean regions.

Intelsat 36 was launched from French Guiana aboard an Ariane 5 launch vehicle. The satellite separated from the rocket’s lower stage at 6:57 p.m. EDT on August 24, and the Intelsat launch team has confirmed signal acquisition.

The Ku-band payload was built to support MultiChoice, the leading direct-to-home platform in South Africa. The C-band payload provides in-orbit resilience for Intelsat’s leading video content distribution neighbourhood at 68.5E. Intelsat 36 will be collocated with Intelsat 20.

“Intelsat 36 is a testament to our dedication to working closely with our customers in Africa to support critical growing infrastructure needs in the region,” said Stephen Spengler, chief executive officer, Intelsat.

“Having consistent and affordable access to informative and entertaining content is vital to a community and its citizens. Intelsat 36 will enable MultiChoice to extend high definition channels throughout the region via one of Africa’s premier video neighbourhoods. We are proud to once again partner with MultiChoice as they continue to deliver high quality and compelling educational and entertainment services to their customers throughout sub-Saharan Africa.”

 Intelsat 36 is the 58th Intelsat satellite launched by Arianespace. – TradeArabia News Service