Posted: Fri, Dec 19, 2003, 5:10 AM ET (1010 GMT)
Orbital Sciences Corporation announced late Wednesday that it has received orders for two communications satellites from an Australian company. Optus Networks will buy two small GEO communications satellites from Orbital to provide direct TV broadcasting and fixed communications services to Australia. The first spacecraft, Optus D-1, will be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2005, while Optus D-2 will be delivered one year later. Both spacecraft will have 24 Ku-band transponders. Orbital has carved out a niche as a developer of small satellite either for companies that cannot afford or do not need larger satellites, or who are looking for small spacecraft to fill specific roles. For the year to date 15 commercial GEO communications satellites have been ordered, a far cry from last year, when as few as three were ordered.

Related Links:

•  Space News article (subscription required)
•  Orbital press release