New Skies Satellites is returning its NSS-KTV satellite from Arianespace¿s launch facilities in Kourou to the Toulouse-based satellite manufacturing facilities of
Matra Marconi Space where concerns related to the satellite¿s solar array panels will be addressed.
The decision to reevaluate the solar array panels, made in consultation with MMS, results from the fact that certain in-orbit satellites with solar arrays similar to the arrays now on NSS-KTV have experienced abnormal power degradation.
As a result of this decision, the NSS-KTV satellite ¿ originally scheduled for an April 28, 1999 launch ¿ will not be launched this year. New Skies is working with MMS and Arianespace to secure a new launch window, presently anticipated to occur in the mid-2000 timeframe.
Bob Ross, CEO of New Skies, said "Although New Skies is disappointed that the NSS-KTV launch has been delayed, we are committed to delivering our customers the most reliable and high quality satellite services possible."
NSS-KTV is a high-powered, state-of-the-art Ku-band satellite designed to serve Asia, the Indian subcontinent and the Pacific Rim countries from the 95 degree East Longitude orbital location.
