Microcom's Space Newsfeed 4 April 2004<br />Space Industry News from Around the World<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Web resources from Microcom Systems:<br /><br />Satellite Industry Links: the largest satellite and space industry directory on the web
http://www.satellite-links.co.uk<br /><br />Satellite on the Net: white papers, industry events, launch information and space bookshop
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http://www.space-jobs.co.uk post your CV or job specification here<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Handbook of Satellite Services in Europe<br /><br />This unique publication provides detailed information on all aspects of the European satellite scene including extensive data on service providers, national regulations, satellites used in Europe as well as background on satellite communications technology.
http://www.microcomsystems.co.uk/pubs/ssie.html<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Advertise on Microcom's websites and reach over 25,000 space and satellite industry professionals each month.
http://www.spacenewsfeed.co.uk/ratecard.html<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Contents<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Satcoms:<br />Canal 22 and Once Mexico Added to DirecTV Para Todos Programming Service<br />On2 Technologies, CNC International Sign Deal for Distribution of Video<br />State-of-the-Art Platform Enables XY.tv to Reach Gen X and Y Audiences<br />Tandberg TV's HD Technology Brings Prince’s ‘Musicology’ to Cinemas Across US<br />ViaSat Selects Encore Networks for Secure Broadband Over Satellite Networks<br /><br />Earth Observation:<br />Orbimage Ramps up Operations for 2004 and Expands Staff<br />Orbimage Receives Clearview Contract Award from NGA<br />US Dept of Agriculture Continues with Radarsat International for Landsat Data Supply<br /><br />Military Space:<br />Boeing Awarded US$ 189 Million Space-Based Surveillance System Contract<br />Harris Lightweight Multi-band Satellite Terminals (LMST) Favoured by US Marine Corps Operators<br />Raytheon to Deliver 41 Satcom Terminals Under US$ 26.9 Million Navy Award<br /><br />Technology:<br />Successfully Flight of NASA's X-43A Hypersonic Scramjet<br /><br />In Orbit:<br />Harris Corporation Awarded DigitalGlobe Satellite Control System Upgrade and Expansion Contract<br />PanAmSat De-Orbits Back-Up Satellite PAS-6<br />PanAmSat Starts Consolidation of Satellite Operations<br /><br />Business:<br />Boeing Sells Digital Cinema Assets to Access Integrated Technologies<br />DigitalGlobe Plans to Launch Singapore Office<br />SES Americom to Acquire Verestar Assets<br />Sirius Closes US$ 50 Million Sale of 2 1/2% Convertible Notes<br /><br />Products and Services:<br />Chelton Announces Multi-Channel Swift64 High Speed Data Terminals<br />Chelton Unveils World’s Smallest and Lightest Aero-H /Swift64 Antenna<br />Harris Releases Linux-compatible OS/COMET Satellite Network Control Software<br />Satellite Security Systems Introduces IONIT<br /><br />People:<br />Stratos Announces Change in CFO<br />WorldSpace Satellite Radio Names Hamza Farooqui Managing Director<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />EEBC 2004 - Eastern Europe Broadband Convention - 13-15 October 2004, Kiev, Ukraine.<br /><br />Exhibition, Conference, Technical Training and Round Table Discussion of Industry Organisations will be devoted to progress trends in the broadband industry of Central and Eastern Europe.<br /><br />All industry organisations and companies are welcome to participate and investigate possibilities of making business in the CEE market! For full details see
www.eebc.com.ua<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Bolton Associates - Corporate Strategies applies 21st. Century thinking for the Earth Observation, SatCom and Environment Industries that penetrate new markets using creative commercial Risk models and innovation.<br /><br />Visit us at
http://www.BoltonAssociates.com and/or download our Power Point presentation
http://www.microcomsystems.co.uk/ads/EOConsult.ppt [131Kb]<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Space Bookshop - books for space professionals.<br />
http://www.satelliteonthenet.co.uk/bookshop.html<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Satcoms<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Canal 22 and Once Mexico Added to DirecTV Para Todos Programming Service<br /><br />(31 March 2004) DirecTV Inc and Satmex Maximo have announced an agreement to add Canal 22 and Once Mexico to the DirecTV Para Todos programming platform this April. Customers who subscribe to any DirecTV Para Todos programming package will be eligible to receive Canal 22 and Once Mexico at no additional cost.<br /><br />Canal 22, one of Mexico's premier networks for news, movies and documentaries, offers popular programming such as, "Galeria Plastica," a program related to Mexican contemporary art, which features the artists in open discussions, and "Los que Hacen Nuestro Cine," which delivers top Mexican movies and interviews with directors and producers.<br /><br />Once Mexico, Mexico's leading network for news, documentaries, talk shows and children's programming, offers general entertainment programming as well as news programs with strong editorial content on political issues. Among its most prominent news/social analysis programs are "Perspecitva" and "Primer Plano," hosted by renowned Mexican opinion leaders.<br /><br />Launched in October 1999, the DirecTV Para Todos service offers the most comprehensive Spanish- and English-language programming available at an affordable price. The service provides access to more than 45 Spanish-language channels including sports, movies, music, news and educational networks and 210 English-language channels of DirecTV programming, featuring the largest selection of pay per view choices and sports programming available.<br /><br />(source: DirecTV)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />On2 Technologies, CNC International Sign Deal for Distribution of Video<br /><br />(31 March 2004) On2 Technologies Inc, The Duck Corporation has signed a contract with China Netcom Communication International Corporation (CNC International Corporation Ltd.) for use of its VP6.2 video codec and TrueCast servers for the broadcast of video via satellite and the Internet for educational and cultural projects in China.<br /><br />CNC International is a facilities-based broadband communications operator that provides a full spectrum of services and solutions to meet the broadband telecommunications needs of businesses and individuals.<br /><br />On2 Technologies is a leading technology firm at the forefront of video compression. The Company revolutionised video encoding with the creation of its advanced full-motion, full-screen, video compression and streaming technology (TrueMotion VP4/VP5/VP6). On2 licenses its high quality video codecs for use in set-top boxes, consumer electronics devices and wireless applications. In addition, On2 offers a suite of products and services, including high-level video encoding, customised technical support, and consulting/integration services.<br /><br />(source: On2 Technologies)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />State-of-the-Art Platform Enables XY.tv to Reach Gen X and Y Audiences<br /><br />(29 March 2004) XY.tv, a 24-hour network of original lifestyle and entertainment shows designed for 12 to 34 year olds, has signed on with SES Americom for innovative program staging and satellite distribution services. XY.tv is delivering live and recorded programming over the Internet to SES Americom's Internet gateway and satellite uplink facilities in Woodbine, Maryland, where the content is packaged, stored and delivered to cable headends across the country aboard SES Americom's AMC-1 satellite, one of two satellites that combine to form the Cable2 neighbourhood.<br /><br />XY.tv is a lifestyle television channel combined with an interactive web experience that explores a wide range of topics and issues young people face in today's world. The brand new channel, which is striving to build an audience and brand with quality programming, has tapped SES Americom's Cable2 neighbourhood for maximum reach.<br /><br />SES Americom's Cable2 neighbourhood, based on the C band payloads of AMC-1 and AMC-4, now reaches more than 61 million cable households with two dozen national and regional programming services. The neighbourhood's penetration is largely the result of an ambitious program to distribute antennas to cable headends. The close proximity of the two satellites, AMC-1 at 103° W, and AMC-4 at 101° W, enables dual reception of signals from both spacecraft by a single C band antenna.<br /><br />XY.tv is a Boston-based, 24-hour television network and web experience with a schedule featuring 100% original programs - all rooted in the lifestyle and interests of the Gen X and Gen Y generations. XY.tv, which officially launched in December 2003, is set to become one of the industry's fastest growing networks. XY.tv is available via digital cable and direct-to-home satellite services targeting the 12-34 year old viewer.<br /><br />(source: SES Americom)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Tandberg TV's HD Technology Brings Prince’s ‘Musicology’ to Cinemas Across US<br /><br />(29 March 2004) A US-wide, live digital cinema event kicking off the release of musician Prince’s new album, “Musicology” was delivered to Regal Entertainment Group (REG) theatres throughout the US, using Coastal Satellite’s mobile uplinking expertise and the very latest Tandberg Television high definition encoding technology.<br /><br />The opening night Prince concert from Los Angeles’ Staples Center arena was sent via satellite from Coastal’s Truck 1 to 43 REG theatres, where ticket holders enjoyed a large-screen HDTV concert in their hometown. The Prince concert was a “One Night Only” event from Regal CineMedia (RCM), the strategic business division of REG. REG is the largest movie theatre operator in the world with nearly 600 cinemas US-wide, comprised of Regal Cinemas, United Artist Theatres, and Edwards Theatres.<br /><br />Equipped with Tandberg Television’s new E5788 HD DSNG encoder, the Coastal Satellite unit uplinked the concert’s high definition video and audio (passed through from a Dolby Digital audio encoder) signals to satellite. A Tandberg Television TT1280 professional HD receiver was in the truck for satellite return confidence monitoring.<br /><br />After years of reliable service with four Tandberg Television E5500 series encoders, Coastal Satellite recently purchased two E5788 HD encoders and one TT1280 HD receiver. Tandberg Television’s HD encoders support all HD and SD formats, and the E5788 is upgradable to 4:2:2 HD.<br /><br />BISS (Basic Interoperable Scrambling System) encryption is critical for an application like the Prince concert where an unauthorised DVD could present significant legal ramifications for REG. BISS is a non-proprietary encryption method that provides for secure, conditional access program distribution.<br /><br />Coastal Satellite recently added a third satellite truck to its fleet.<br /><br />Coastal Satellite, based in Agoura Hills, California, is currently in its fifth year of operation. In addition to HD transmission, Coastal Satellite Inc is a provider of Ku satellite trucks, ENG crews and production packages. Coastal maintains an insert studio in Northwestern Los Angeles County. It has in-depth experience in live, special events programming, news, sports, entertainment and corporate communications.<br /><br />(source: Tandberg Television)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />ViaSat Selects Encore Networks for Secure Broadband Over Satellite Networks<br /><br />(29 March 2004) Encore Networks, a developer of integrated IP+Legacy Virtual Private Network (VPN) and security solutions, has announced the recent completion of certification testing between the ViaSat LinkStar IP satellite terminal and Encore's VSR-30 and the BANDIT product line. The combined platform delivers the first end-to-end IPsec VPN without bandwidth degradation over hybrid satellite and terrestrial networks that meet the security requirements of ViaSat commercial customers.<br /><br />ViaSat produces innovative satellite and other communication products that enable fast, secure, and efficient communications to any location. ViaSat customers include Boeing, Eutelsat, Intelsat, the US Military, and numerous enterprises and service providers world-wide. Shipments of the LinkStar broadband VSAT now total over 16,000 since its introduction.<br /><br />Encore Network's security solutions provide satellite enterprise data networks support for IPsec encryption, stateful inspection firewall, IP routing, extensive QoS capabilities, and Encore Networks exclusive Selective Layer Encryption (SLE). The ability to perform SLE to IPsec tunnel switching allows satellite operators the flexibility to offer high performance VPN solutions that span combined satellite and terrestrial networks without performance degradation. With built-in SLE features, both the BANDIT IP+Legacy, VPN and the VSR-30 overcome the performance degradation associated with satellite circuits by optimising the performance of VPNs over satellite networks without compromising the security and the robustness of the end-to-end solution.<br /><br />The LinkStar system is a high performance, star-based VSAT system for service providers, ISPs, and corporate network managers seeking a product based on DVB standards. The LinkStar advantage is in its dynamic bandwidth allocation that makes it more efficient and faster than other TDMA systems and can operate over C, Ku, or Ka band frequencies.<br /><br />(source: ViaSat)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Earth Observation<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Orbimage Ramps up Operations for 2004 and Expands Staff<br /><br />(30 March 2004) Orbimage Inc has expanded its staff by approximately 50% to support commercial operations of OrbView-3, its first high-resolution earth observation satellite, and that the company's regional distributor partner in Japan, NTT Data Corporation, has begun routine commercial operations.<br /><br />In addition to Orbimage's two ground stations, in its Dulles headquarters and Point Barrow, Alaska, NTT Data Corporation now operates a ground station in Yorii, Japan to receive and process imagery from OrbView-3 and has begun distributing OrbView-3 imagery products under a long term agreement with Orbimage. NTT Data began receiving OrbView-3 imagery in December. In addition, as announced yesterday in a separate press release, the National Geo-Spatial Intelligence Agency (NGA) awarded Orbimage a contract to deliver OrbView-3 imagery and related products under the ClearView program.<br /><br />Since OrbView-3's launch in June, the company has expanded its staff by approximately 50%, as previously planned. In addition to expansion of its staff in Operations, the company hired William Warren as General Counsel after emerging from Chapter 11 on December 31, 2003. Mr. Warren joins Orbimage after working at Latham & Watkins LLP, where he spent considerable time representing Orbimage in its capital restructuring and general corporate matters.<br /><br />(source: Orbimage)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Orbimage Receives Clearview Contract Award from NGA<br /><br />(29 March 2004) Orbimage Inc has been awarded a contract to supply the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) with high-resolution commercial satellite imagery and value-added products from its new OrbView-3 satellite.<br /><br />NGA's Clearview award provides Orbimage with a guaranteed minimum value of US$ 27.5 million over two years, of which approximately US$ 10.5 million and US$ 12 million represent minimum commitments to purchase imagery in year one and two, respectively. Orbimage will collect, process, archive and distribute high-resolution panchromatic and multispectral imagery and products supporting NGA's mission to provide up-to-date geospatial intelligence to the US Department of Defense and the intelligence community.<br /><br />(source: Orbimage)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />US Dept of Agriculture Continues with Radarsat International for Landsat Data Supply<br /><br />(29 March 2004) Exercising the 3rd year option with Radarsat International, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has signed an additional one-year contract for the supply of Landsat data. The data is acquired over the agricultural lands of the United States to monitor and assess crop activities.<br /><br />Valued at US$ 750,000, the contract for 2004 marks the fourth time that the USDA has turned to Radarsat International for its Landsat data requirements. The USDA uses Landsat data to estimate crop production, investigate crop vigour and health, and to assess the extent of crop damage from adverse weather conditions.<br /><br />In September 2003, Radarsat International upgraded their satellite data processing system to accommodate Landsat 5 data. Over 1500 Landsat scenes were processed for the USDA in 2003.<br /><br />Radarsat International is a major supplier of Landsat 5 and Landsat 7 data over North America.<br /><br />(source: Radarsat International)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Military Space<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Boeing Awarded US$ 189 Million Space-Based Surveillance System Contract<br /><br />(30 March 2004) A Boeing and Ball Aerospace team has won a US$ 189 million contract to develop and initially operate the Space-Based Space Surveillance System (SBSS) for the US Air Force.<br /><br />The SBSS detects and tracks space objects, such as satellites and orbital debris. The Department of Defense will utilize data generated by the SBSS to support military operations. Additionally, NASA could use the information to calculate orbital debris collision avoidance measures for the International Space Station and Space Shuttle missions.<br /><br />The SBSS contract calls for the Boeing team to develop a satellite, the ground segment, and provide launch services. The team will also be responsible for mission planning, mission data processing and operation of the system for up to one year, prior to transitioning it to the Air Force. The SBSS satellite is slated to be launched by mid to late 2007.<br /><br />After the competitive down-select process, Boeing was chosen for the SBSS sub-contract by Northrop Grumman Mission Systems, acting on behalf of the US Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center. Northrop Grumman Mission Systems carried out this function through the Mission Area Prime Integration Contract with the Air Force. By winning this initial SBSS contract, Boeing is strategically positioned to compete for follow-on contracts and other related programs in the Space Situation Awareness (SSA) market. Current projection for the SSA mission area is valued at more than US$ 2 billion.<br /><br />The Boeing SBSS program office is located in Huntington Beach, California, and draws upon Boeing expertise in El Segundo, California; Maui, Hawaii; Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Leesburg, Virginia; Ball Aerospace in Boulder, Colorado; and Harris Corp. in Melbourne, Florida.<br /><br />(source: Boeing)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Harris Lightweight Multi-band Satellite Terminals (LMST) Favoured by US Marine Corps Operators<br /><br />(29 March 2004) Highly mobile, multi-band satellite communications (SATCOM) terminals from Harris Corporation are providing US Marine Corps forces deployed around the world with highly reliable satellite-based voice, video, data and Internet connectivity between headquarters operations and the battlefield.<br /><br />Company B, 7th Communications Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF), Headquarters Group, is just one of the units where the Marine Corps LMST Block 5 SATCOM terminals have become a proven asset.<br /><br />With six LMSTs, the Marine's 7th Communications Battalion utilises the largest number of the terminals and is the most experienced with their operation. The highly mobile terminal systems are transported using ruggedised cases that can be carried by just one or two individuals. LMST can be rapidly deployed on two HMMWVs and then quickly assembled or disassembled in 60 minutes or less using two trained operators without special test equipment or tools.<br /><br />Since battlefield communications with other units and personnel is essential, the LMST operators have a special responsibility within the battalion.<br /><br />The highly reliable, quad-band terminal systems withstand the challenges of operating in harsh environments in order to support battlefield operations and meet the mobility needs of conventional and special forces. With shorter transmission times, a very large range of reception (nearly one-third of the Earth's surface) and rapid assembly capabilities, the LMST is expected to replace other communications terminals.<br /><br />Harris has delivered 24 LMSTs to six different Marine Corps locations since May of 2003, including Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan; Fort Gordon, Georgia; Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; Camp Pendleton, California; Brooklyn Reserve Unit, New York; and Cherry Point, North Carolina.<br /><br />(source: Harris Corporation)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Raytheon to Deliver 41 Satcom Terminals Under US$ 26.9 Million Navy Award<br /><br />(31 March 2004) The US Navy Space and Warfare Command has exercised a production option with Raytheon Company to produce 41 extra high frequency (EHF) satellite communication (SATCOM) terminals and spare parts worth US$ 26.9 million.<br /><br />The program, Navy EHF Satellite Program (NESP) follow-on terminal, is valued at US$ 188 million and comprises 226 Satcom terminals, 208 ship antennas, 43 shore antennas and spare parts. The follow-on terminal adds Milstar medium data rate capability to the NESP family of communication systems.<br /><br />NESP provides secure, protected communication for Navy surface ships, submarines and shore installations. The system is "protected" in that its data is encrypted with low probability of intercept mechanisms that make enemy interception difficult. In addition, NESP relies on anti-jam properties to deny enemy disruption of messages transmitted and received via NESP terminals as they interoperate with the Milstar and UFO satellite constellations.<br /><br />Raytheon has delivered more than 136 systems to date and expects to deliver the remaining 90 by September 2005.<br /><br />(source: Raytheon)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Technology<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Successfully Flight of NASA's X-43A Hypersonic Scramjet<br /><br />(30 March 2004) NASA and an industry team led by ATK achieved a world speed record for air-breathing powered flight during a test of the X-43A Supersonic Combustion Ramjet (Scramjet) engine-powered research vehicle on March 27.<br /><br />On launch day, flight operations began when NASA's B-52B carrier aircraft took off and flew a predetermined flight path to a point 50 miles off the California coast. The Hyper-X vehicle was released from the B-52 at approximately 40,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean. Following rocket motor ignition, the Hyper-X Launch Vehicle, carrying the X-43A scramjet, accelerated to a velocity of approximately Mach 7 (or seven times the speed of sound) and reached an altitude of 95,000 feet. Approximately 90 seconds after ignition, with the booster at a precise trajectory condition, the Hyper-X launch vehicle sent commands to the X-43A scramjet, which then separated from the booster.<br /><br />Early flight results indicate that the X-43A stabilised, ignited its scramjet and provided flight data back to NASA engineers. Following the engine burn, the X-43A executed a number of aerodynamic manoeuvres during its eight-minute coast to an ocean impact approximately 450 miles from the launch point. After separation, the spent booster impacted the ocean in a pre-determined splash area.<br /><br />Unlike vehicles with conventional rocket engines, which carry oxygen onboard, the air-breathing X-43A scoops and compresses oxygen from the atmosphere using the shape of the vehicle's airframe. This type of propulsion system could potentially increase payload capacity of future launch vehicles and make high-speed passenger travel feasible since no onboard supply of oxidiser would be required.<br /><br />The 12.3-foot-long X-43A is powered by a scramjet, or supersonic combustion ramjet engine. As air-breathing engines, scramjets have significantly fewer moving parts than traditional turbojet engines. Scramjets allow for the design of smaller, simpler, more affordable reusable vehicles for potential space, military and civil applications.<br /><br />Hypersonic flight, defined as flying at least five times the speed of sound, remains a mostly unexplored region. At those speeds, metals can melt or vaporise almost instantly, and aerodynamic control must be extremely precise. Additionally, strong shockwaves are created that can cause exceptionally high temperatures and forces on various parts of the airframe.<br /><br />To meet these challenges, the X-43A employs a tile-based thermal protection system, carbon-carbon composites, and high temperature-resistant metals; a control system designed to deal with the rapid changes in forces and motions expected at Mach 7; and a special control technique to sense and prevent disruption of the supersonic airflow through the inlet, which would dramatically reduce engine thrust.<br /><br />The X-43A scramjet engine and fuel systems were manufactured by ATK GASL, Ronkonkoma. Vehicle integration, instrumentation development and systems testing were performed at the ATK GASL facility in Tullahoma. Both Boeing PhantomWorks and NASA played major roles in the design of the X-43A.<br /><br />Boeing Phantom Works is teamed with prime contractor ATK GASL to develop and build the X-43A or Hyper-X for NASA. Boeing designed the vehicle, the airframe thermal protection systems and flight control and navigation systems. The booster is a modified Pegasus rocket built by Orbital Sciences Corp.<br /><br />(source: Alliant Techsystems, Boeing, Orbital Sciences)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />In Orbit<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Harris Corporation Awarded DigitalGlobe Satellite Control System Upgrade and Expansion Contract<br /><br />(29 March 2004) Harris Corporation has signed a contract with DigitalGlobe to support its Satellite Control System Upgrade and Expansion program. Harris will provide the satellite command and control system for DigitalGlobe's currently operational QuickBird remote sensing satellite and for its new WorldView satellite. The Harris OS/COMET product will provide the command and control system for managing a constellation of satellites, including QuickBird, WorldView, and future spacecraft.<br /><br />Harris Technical Services Corporation's (HTSC's) satellite command and control system solution for DigitalGlobe will be based on the new LINUX version of the Harris OS/COMET product line. OS/COMET is an advanced software tool set featuring a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) design that provides a high level of flexibility. Designed for government and commercial applications, it is used to support single-satellite missions as well as the largest and most complex satellite networks deployed today, including Iridium, GPS, and the US Navy Space Operations Command's (NAVSOC) fleet of sixteen spacecraft. OS/COMET also features a suite of "bolt-on" products that provide enhanced capabilities such as operations automation, ground equipment control, automated fault resolution, spacecraft simulation, and TT&C functionality via a PC client.<br /><br />(source: Harris Corporation)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />PanAmSat De-Orbits Back-Up Satellite PAS-6<br /><br />(2 April 2004) PanAmSat has decided to de-orbit one of its in-orbit international spares, PAS-6, due to a failure in the satellite's power system. Located at 43° W, PAS-6 was one of two backup satellites supporting PanAmSat's international fleet. PanAmSat anticipates that this will not affect its 2004 revenues.<br /><br />As a result of this event, PanAmSat will record a non-cash charge within income from operations of approximately US$ 100 million in the first quarter of 2004. This will result in an approximate US$ 63 million non-cash charge to net income after taxes. Further, the Company anticipates reduced depreciation expense for full year 2004 of approximately US$ 9 million. PanAmSat will adjust its 2004 guidance to reflect these changes when it releases its first quarter 2004 results.<br /><br />Launched on August 8, 1997, PAS-6 is a Loral Space Systems model FS-1300 satellite. PanAmSat does not plan to replace this satellite.<br /><br />(source: PanAmSat)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />PanAmSat Starts Consolidation of Satellite Operations<br /><br />(31 March 2004) Integral Systems Inc has announced a contract with PanAmSat Corporation to migrate their three Boeing Satellite System 702 spacecraft from their current ground control software system to the Epoch IPS (Integrated Product Suite) fleet control system supplied by Integral Systems. This program is the first step to eventually consolidating PanAmSat's satellite operations onto a single satellite control system. By doing so, PanAmSat will reduce its recurring long-term operations and maintenance costs, and future procurement costs.<br /><br />PanAmSat currently uses Integral Systems Epoch IPS to operate their Orbital Starbus satellites. Epoch IPS is the only COTS (commercial-off the shelf) satellite control system with a proven capability to operate diverse fleets of satellites (satellites from different satellite manufacturers in the same fleet) from a single satellite control system. Integral is also the only company that provides systems that operate satellites from every major commercial geosynchronous communications satellite manufacturer in the world, including Alcatel, Astrium, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Orbital and Space Systems/Loral.<br /><br />(source: Integral Systems)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Business<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Boeing Sells Digital Cinema Assets to Access Integrated Technologies<br /><br />(30 March 2004) The Boeing Company has announced the sale of Boeing Digital Cinema assets to Access Integrated Technologies Inc (AccessIT) of Morristown, New Jersey.<br /><br />Boeing Integrated Defense Systems sold the digital cinema equipment assets and will provide intellectual property licenses for the Boeing technology applicable in the digital cinema market and support transitioning existing theatre contracts from Boeing to AccessIT. Boeing employees will not be transitioned to AccessIT as part of the deal.<br /><br />Under the agreement, AccessIT will acquire Boeing Digital Cinema's installed base of digital projection systems located in cinemas throughout the United States, digital projectors, spares, and associated content servers and satellite transmission equipment. In addition, Boeing and AccessIT have reached agreement for AccessIT to provide for the utilisation of its data services. Additional details were not disclosed.<br /><br />Digital cinema requires the seamless integration of many complex technologies including projection, content management and storage, and secure distribution - elements that, only recently, have been brought together by AccessIT and its subsidiaries, Hollywood Software, Access Digital Media and Core Technology Services.<br /><br />The digital cinema technology involves the delivery and exhibition of pre-recorded entertainment content from the content owner, such as a major motion picture studio, to local movie theatres in digital form, eliminating physical film. This technology offers many advantages over traditional or analog celluloid film. It provides vastly superior visual and audio quality and importantly, eliminates the inefficient and time-consuming printing and distribution of bulky film prints.<br /><br />Boeing Digital Cinema technology provides for the capability to transmit first-run films and alternative media, such as sporting events, concerts, plays and corporate events, directly to movie theatres via satellite or physical media. It provides secure, end-to-end transmission using encryption technology endorsed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology for protection of commercial and government information. The end-to-end multi-layered security system ensures protection from encryption of the content upon receipt to decryption upon projection in designated theatres.<br /><br />Boeing Digital Cinema provides an integrated delivery solution from the studios to the exhibitors. The open-architecture design makes it possible for integration of off-the-shelf hardware meeting industry standards to compress, store, forward and project digital content with the primary goal of interoperability. The ability to use a wider range of equipment benefits both the studio and theatre owners.<br /><br />AccessIT's end-to-end solution ranges from distribution scheduling where film release schedules and distribution instructions are determined to digital master storage in one of AccessIT's carrier-grade data centres, through to managed, secure delivery via satellite and fibre technology to a digitally enabled cinema.<br /><br />(source: Access Integrated Technologies, Boeing)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />DigitalGlobe Plans to Launch Singapore Office<br /><br />(31 March 2004) DigitalGlobe has announced plans for DigitalGlobe Asia, a sales and support office to be located in Singapore. DigitalGlobe Asia will benefit customers in Asia by allowing for in-region sales and technical support, resulting in quicker turnaround and localised business knowledge.<br /><br />In a mutually beneficial change to the distribution strategy for Asia, DigitalGlobe and Hitachi Software, DigitalGlobe's Master Distributor for Asia, worked together to allow DigitalGlobe Asia non-exclusive distribution of QuickBird imagery throughout Asia, with the exception of Japan, which remains exclusive to Hitachi Software. As a result of this change, DigitalGlobe will be able to work directly with existing and new business partners in Asia outside of Japan.<br /><br />DigitalGlobe Asia plans to have offices in Singapore by June 2004. Until that time, Asia resellers will communicate directly with DigitalGlobe's Colorado, USA headquarters.<br /><br />(source: DigitalGlobe)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />SES Americom to Acquire Verestar Assets<br /><br />(2 April 2004) SES Americom has received US Bankruptcy Court approval to acquire the assets of Verestar Inc, for a total cash consideration of US$ 18.5 million. The Fairfax, VA-based company focuses on managed solutions for satellite communications in government, broadcast, enterprise, and international services markets with strategically located teleport facilities in the US and abroad.<br /><br />Since December 2003 Verestar has been operating under the protection of the bankruptcy court. In an auction conducted in New York on Tuesday, March 30th, SES Americom offered a successful bid to acquire substantially all of Verestar's business and operations, which was approved by the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York in Manhattan. In the near term, SES Americom will seek appropriate government authorisations, including FCC approval to transfer Verestar's communications licenses. Upon receipt of these authorisations, a process anticipated to take a number of months, the transaction will be finalised.<br /><br />SkyTerra Communications Inc, which had been financing Verestar during its bankruptcy proceedings in the expectation that it would acquire the assets of Verestar, now expects to be awarded a US$ 350,000 break-up fee and have its expenses reimbursed in accordance with a previously entered court order.<br /><br />Upon the closing of the sale by Verestar to SES Americom, SkyTerra will receive the principal and certain interest due pursuant to its US$ 2.5 million senior secured note.<br /><br />The Verestar Company/Assets<br /><br />* 225 employees with headquarters, sales, marketing, finance, and<br /> operations based in Fairfax, Virginia and numerous sales offices and<br /> technical operations staff in the field and located at teleports.<br />* Four U.S. teleports in Holmdel, NJ, Alexandria, VA, Brewster, WA, and<br /> Cedar Hill, TX.<br />* Verestar AG, a Swiss Corporation, including a full-service teleport<br /> business based in Leuk, Switzerland serving Europe, Africa and the<br /> Middle East regions.<br />* Government contracts providing international telecommunications services<br /> to several US government agencies.<br />* Occasional services contracts with most television networks for news<br /> backhaul and distribution.<br />* Commercial contracts with Connexion by Boeing for European and Atlantic<br /> Ocean services, various maritime mobile and fixed broadband service<br /> companies, and domestic and international telecommunications companies<br /> and ISPs.<br /><br />(source: SES Americom, SkyTerra)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Sirius Closes US$ 50 Million Sale of 2 1/2% Convertible Notes<br /><br />(31 March 2004) Morgan Stanley & Co Incorporated has purchased US$ 50 million in principal amount of Sirius Satellite Radio's 2 1/2% Convertible Notes due 2009.<br /><br />The notes were purchased pursuant to the option granted to Morgan Stanley in February, in connection with the company's offering of US$ 250 million of 2 1/2% Convertible Notes due 2009 pursuant to Rule 144A, which was recently extended to April 13, 2004.<br /><br />Each US$ 1,000 in principal amount of the notes will be convertible, at the option of the holder, into 226.7574 shares of Sirius' common stock, an effective price of US$ 4.41 per share. Sirius plans to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes.<br /><br />(source: Sirius Satellite Radio)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Products and Services<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Chelton Announces Multi-Channel Swift64 High Speed Data Terminals<br /><br />(30 March 2004) Chelton has announced two new Inmarsat Swift64 Aero High Speed Data systems - the HSD-6000 and the HSD-7000, both systems are complete with High Gain Antennas.<br /><br />The HSD-7000 includes the HGA-7000 phased array for fuselage mounts, while the HSD-6000 includes the new ultra-compact HGA-6000 mechanically steered tail-mount antenna.<br /><br />The systems share common satcom system components consisting of the new SDU-7300 Dual-Channel Swift64 Satellite Data Unit, the new HPA-7400 High Power Amplifier and the DAU-7050 Diplexer/DLNA. Both systems can operate independently of aircraft reference systems with the inclusion of the SRU-7200 Satcom Reference Unit. Like the HGA-7000 antenna, the HGA-6000 and Swift64 units are available separately.<br /><br />Utilising the latest in Swift64 modem technology, the SDU-7300 was jointly developed by Chelton and Nera SatCom of Oslo, Norway.<br /><br />The 3-MCU SDU-7300 provides two Swift64 channels that can individually be configured for operation in either ISDN or MPDS mode. In addition, the two channels can be bonded to provide a 128 kb/s data channel. A unique feature of the SDU-7300 is the integral Beam Steering Unit, which provides single coax control and powering of the HGA-6000 and HGA-7000 High Gain Antennas, thus eliminating the installation of a separate BSU. Another industry first is the inclusion of a mini-server with IP switch in the SDU, eliminating the need for an external router, and offering optional IP traffic management. It further features an Ethernet hub for network interconnection. The SDU-7300 is upgradable to Aero BGAN which will offer data rates up to 432 kb/s and is expected to be operational in late 2005.<br /><br />The HPA-7400 High Power Amplifier is the smallest and lightest Aero Swift64 HPA, yet boasts 80-watts of power. Housed in a compact 2-MCU package, the HPA-7400 has sophisticated Built-in testing (BITE), and a self-protection system that affords maximum reliability and long operational life. The 80-watt power output allows the slaving of a second SDU-7300, to provide up to a 256 kb/s data connection if/when required.<br /><br />In addition to their performance and packaging advantages, the HSD-6000 and HSD-7000 are priced very competitively, broadening the appeal of Inmarsat Swift64 systems to most of the business jets that never leave North America. Anticipated availability of both the HSD-6000 and HSD-7000 is third quarter 2004.<br /><br />(source: Chelton)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Chelton Unveils World’s Smallest and Lightest Aero-H /Swift64 Antenna<br /><br />(30 March 2004) Chelton has unveiled the revolutionary HGA-6000 Aero Satcom. The HGA-6000 is Chelton’s first High Gain Antenna specifically designed for mounting underneath a tail radome.<br /><br />Without compromising performance, the HGA-6000 is the world’s smallest and lightest multichannel Aero-H/H+ and Swift64 Antenna. Its compact design represents the satcom industry’s first Inmarsat High Gain Antenna to incorporate an ARINC 741 compatible Beam Steering Unit. This provides the HGA-6000 the ability to directly interface with all ARINC 741 compatible Aero-H/H+ and Swift64 satcom systems. The antenna system requires fewer components saving weight, space and installation costs.<br /><br />The HGA-6000 provides additional benefits over the traditional single-helix tail mount antennas (commonly used on business jets) including a higher gain for improved performance and coverage. Also, because of its smaller size, the antenna can be co-located with DBS antennas in some factory radomes which are currently unable to house both the larger single-helix satcom antenna and a DBS (TV) antenna.<br /><br />In addition to its performance and packaging advantages, the HGA-6000 is offered at a very competitive price. Projected availability of the HGA-6000 is third quarter 2004.<br /><br />(source: Chelton)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Harris Releases Linux-compatible OS/COMET Satellite Network Control Software<br /><br />(29 March 2004) Harris Corporation has announced the release of a new version of its OS/COMET satellite Telemetry Tracking and Command (TT&C) solution. Compatible with the Linux Operating System, the new version of OS/COMET provides satellite operators with a choice of operating systems and hardware platforms when either building or upgrading their control centres.<br /><br />OS/COMET is an advanced software tool set featuring commercial off-the- shelf (COTS) design and high levels of flexibility. Designed for government and commercial applications, it is used to support both single-satellite missions and the largest and most complex satellite networks deployed today, including Iridium, GPS, the 16-spacecraft fleet of the US Navy Space Operations Command (NAVSOC), and Telesat Canada. OS/COMET also features a suite of "bolt-on" products - all of which are capable of running on either Linux or Solaris - that provide enhanced capabilities such as operations automation, ground equipment control, automated fault resolution, spacecraft simulation, and TT&C functionality via a PC client. HTSC plans to deliver the Linux version of OS/COMET in May.<br /><br />(source: Harris Corporation)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Satellite Security Systems Introduces IONIT<br /><br />(1 April 2004) Satellite Security Systems (S3), a global provider of asset security and logistics control, has launched IONIT, the first satellite security and monitoring solution for tethered and un-tethered units, providing superior accountability and efficiency for the trucking industry.<br /><br />IONIT is a covert system placed on individual units and tracked via satellite communication and Global Positioning System (GPS) for up-to-the- minute location and monitoring. IONIT is solar powered with a reserve battery and works with FleetGuard, a desktop application that allows managers to view, monitor and track each vehicle in an entire fleet at once.<br /><br />Tractors and trailers carry cargo ranging from high-value to hazardous-waste or petrochemical products. The need to secure these units is of paramount concern to trucking companies, California Independent Oil Marketing Association (CIOMA) members, and State and Federal departments. The California state government is considering Assembly Bill (AB) 575 (requiring truck disabling devices, global positioning or other "location reporting systems" on hazardous material hauliers), and the CHP has been tasked with researching various technologies to support these regulatory initiatives.<br /><br />IONIT's communications backbone is the Motorola ReFLEXsatellite communications system. The ReFLEX system is a secure, two-way messaging infrastructure that stretches across North America (US, Canada, and Mexico) and is also available throughout Europe and Asia. Compared with competing data networks, ReFLEX's capabilities provide a wide range of crucial technical and economic advantages. S3 adds the government's GPS data to keep decision makers fully aware of operational circumstances. A 24-hour, seven-day-a-week Monitoring and Support Center (MSC) is staffed with trained professionals to respond immediately to emergency situations.<br /><br />(source: Satellite Security Systems)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />People<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Stratos Announces Change in CFO<br /><br />(31 March 2004) Stratos Global Corp has announced that Richard Halka, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer, is leaving Stratos to pursue other opportunities.<br /><br />Paula Sturge, FCA, CMA, currently Stratos' Senior Vice-President, Finance, has been appointed as Interim Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately. As Senior Vice-President, Finance, Paula has been responsible for the accounting, finance and taxation functions within Stratos. Paula joined Stratos in April 2000 and brought with her 16 years of public accounting experience from her previous employment with a major Canadian accounting firm.<br /><br />Stratos has initiated a search for a permanent successor.<br /><br />(source: Stratos Global)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />WorldSpace Satellite Radio Names Hamza Farooqui Managing Director<br /><br />(29 March 2004) WorldSpace Corporation has appointed Hamza Farooqui as Managing Director for WorldSpace South Africa.<br /><br />Mr. Farooqui will be responsible for driving the growth of the WorldSpace Satellite Radio in the African region focusing primarily on South Africa. Hamza Farooqui began his career as the Chairman & CEO of Convergence Group (Pty) Ltd, owners of iCricketer.com which was created as a portal for real time cricket scores, play by play, news and exclusive content from international media and sporting team partners. The strategic alliances and content assembled by Farooqui grew iCricketer.com into a multi national financial success attracting some of the leading global media syndication partners who used iCricketer.com and its network of journalists.<br /><br />Prior to joining WorldSpace, Farooqui was the Group CEO of CII Holdings (Pty) Ltd, a diversified group providing Muslims globally with broadcasting, retail/merchandising and financial services product.<br /><br />(source: WorldSpace)<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Press releases should be sent to: newsfeed@microcomsystems.co.uk<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Microcom makes no charge for this service and makes no payments for the use of material. Microcom makes no warranties about the quality of this service and accepts no liability for mistakes and errors. Use of this service is taken as confirmation of acceptance of these conditions.<br /><br />If you require further information contact Microcom by email: info@microcomsystems.co.uk<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />This newsletter, and archives dating back to January 2000, can be viewed on the web at
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