At 8:45 PM (November 8, Hanoi time), Inmarsat-4 F2, one of the most powerful and largest communication satellites, was successfully launched into orbit by a Zenit-3SL rocket from the Pacific Ocean.
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Inmarsat 4 Satellite |
Inmarsat-4 F2 is the second of three satellites designed to enhance global communication systems. The first satellite, covering much of Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Indian Ocean, was launched from Cape Canaveral in March 2005. The second satellite, manufactured in the UK, will improve and expand communication across South America, North America, the Atlantic, and part of the Pacific.
These two identical satellites, each the size of a London bus, are expected to operate for approximately 15 years. They were designed and manufactured by EADS Astrium, Europe’s leading satellite producer. Weighing nearly 6 tons, the Inmarsat satellites are equipped with electric propulsion systems. A 45-meter solar panel generates 14 kW of power. The main body of the satellite stands 7 meters tall.
The two satellites will support Inmarsat’s global broadband network headquartered in London. The technology on each satellite enables individuals to establish virtual offices anywhere in the world through high-speed broadband connections and third-generation (3G) phone technology. Beneficiaries include traveling businesspeople, rescue workers, and journalists.
Minh Sơn(According to BBC, Reuters)
