Intelsat picks MDA for satellite servicing

摘要

Intelsat S.A. of Luxembourg, a provider of fixed satellite services, has announced an agreement with Vancouver-based MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (MDA) for the servicing of Intelsat's on-orbit satellites via a space-based service vehicle to be provided by MDA. The innovative technology has the potential to extend the useful lives of Intelsat's satellites and enhance in-orbit reliability. The services provided by MDA to Intelsat under this agreement are valued at more than US$280 million over the timeframe during which services will be delivered. MDA plans to launch its Space Infrastructure Servicing (SIS) vehicle into near geosynchronous orbit, where it will service commercial and govern- ment satellites in need of additional fuel, re-positioning or other maintenance. MDA has selected Intelsat General Corp. as its exclusive channel to bring on-orbit services to the U.S. government. The SIS vehicle is expected to be the first of its kind, using a sophisticated robotics and docking system. This system will be based on work that MDA has previously performed for NASA, the Canadian Space Agency and various Department of Defense agencies.