MICROCOM'S SPACE NEWSFEED 14 April 2002<br />Space Industry News from Around the World<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Brought to you by Microcom Systems Ltd, consultants in satellite communications since 1985.
http://www.microcomsystems.co.uk<br /><br />Publishers of the Handbook of Satellite Services in Europe, the definitive guide to European satellite communications and broadcast services, providing extensive data on operators, services and service providers, satellites, technology, regulators and regulations in more than forty European countries. The most comprehensive sourcebook available on European satellite communications and broadcasting.
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http://www.satelliteonthenet.co.uk/white.html<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />CONTENTS<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />SATCOMS:<br />Convergent Media Selects SkyStream to Power New Managed Enterprise Services<br />HNS Europe Signs K-Class Communications as DirecWay Broadband Service Provider<br />Intelsat Selects SkyStream’s Networking Solution For TV Video Multicast Trial<br />Norsat Completes Largest Shipment of Ka/Ku Band Commercial ODUs<br />PanAmSat and Embratel to Deliver Services to Remote Areas Of Brazil<br /><br />MILITARY SPACE:<br />Harris Corporation Receives Antenna Contract Option for Additional Wideband Gapfiller Satellites<br />Signal Corporation Awarded US Army Satcoms Support Order<br /><br />MANNED SPACE:<br />MDA Awarded Cdn$ 18 Million for Future Support Of Space Station Robotics<br /><br />TECHNOLOGY:<br />MicroSat Systems Awards Contract to Raytheon<br /><br />LAUNCH SERVICES:<br />Aerojet Validates Tri-Fluid Injector for Air Force Advanced Reusable Rocket Engine<br />Boeing Announces Delta IV Heavy Launch Assignment<br />Praxair Signs Contract for Rocket Launch Propellants<br />Shuttle Atlantis Flies with Three New P&W Fuel Turbopumps<br /><br />LAUNCHES:<br />STS 110 - ITS S0 Truss and Mobile Transporter<br />Launch Schedule<br /><br />BUSINESS:<br />Alcatel Space and Gilat Announce Strategic Broadband Partnership<br />Barutiwa Reinvents Itself<br />California Amplifier Acquires Kaul-Tronics Business<br />Eutelsat Increases Investment in Hispasat<br />Mentergy to Spin-Off Satellite-Based Communications Services Business<br />New Broadband Joint Venture in Europe<br />SES Global and Alcatel Space Announce Broadband Access Partnership<br /><br />PRODUCTS AND SERVICES:<br />Inmarsat Announce Availability of the 64kbit/s Mobile Office in the Sky<br />Irdeto Access Launches Irdeto PIsys, Conditional Access System<br />Motorola and N2 Broadband to Maximise Satellite Bandwidth<br />Satellite Tool Kit 4.3 Released<br />SkyStream Unveils EVR-7000 Edge Video Router<br />Tachyon Launches Transportable Broadband Network Access<br />Telenor Satellite Services to Launch Global Maritime Communications Service<br />Wegener Introduces Compel Customer Web Access<br />Wegener's Unity200 for Digital Audio Distribution<br /><br />PEOPLE:<br />Fantastic Announces Management Changes<br />Richardson Electronics Expands Satellite Staffing<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />European Satellites For Security, 18-19 June 2002, Brussels.<br /><br />Inaugurated by Dr. Javier Solana, General Secretary European Council and EU High Representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy.<br /><br />It will bring together top Governmental, Military and Commercial figures driving Europe's Space Security Policy. What are Europe's Security and Defence requirements and what are the practical challenges for implementation? See
www.eyeforspace.com<br /><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 /><br />SATCOMS<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Convergent Media Selects SkyStream to Power New Managed Enterprise Services<br /><br />Convergent Media Systems Corporation, a leading provider of high-quality video solutions for eLearning and corporate communications, has selected SkyStream's Source Media and Edge Media Routers (SMRs and EMRs) to deliver new enterprise communication services to businesses via satellite including many Global 2000 companies.<br /><br />SkyStream's Edge Media Routers are a key component to Convergent's new enterprise service offerings to its blue chip customers, enabling them to efficiently and reliably receive IP data at the network edge and deliver streaming data content over enterprise LAN-based networks.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />HNS Europe Signs K-Class Communications as DirecWay Broadband Service Provider<br /><br />K-Class Communications Ltd. has signed on to offer Hughes Network Systems Europe's (HNSE) DirecWay high-speed Internet services to small and medium-sized businesses.<br /><br />K-Class, working through its partnership with One North East, a Regional Development Agency for the North East of England within the United Kingdom, will now offer DirecWay two-way, high-speed Internet connectivity via satellite throughout the region.<br /><br />Installation has begun with service available to users in April 2002.<br /><br />Based in Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom, K-Class Communications Ltd. offers Internet broadband by satellite, ADSL, lease line connectivity and wireless networks.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Intelsat Selects SkyStream’s Networking Solution For TV Video Multicast Trial<br /><br />Intelsat has selected SkyStream's end-to-end broadcast content delivery solution for its global multicast trial, delivering US and European television content to broadcast companies in the Asia-Pacific region.<br /><br />The trial is significant because it demonstrates an efficient and cost-effective way to deliver TV-quality video content over a multicast-enabled backbone network comprised of satellites. Intelsat selected SkyStream's Source and Edge Media Routers (SMRs and EMRs) and zBandT Content Delivery Platform for the trial because of their easy integration with existing satellite-based networks and ability to scale for diverse service delivery needs. The trial is scheduled to begin in April and is expected to last for three months.<br /><br />For the purposes of the trial, Intelsat will provide space segment on the Intelsat 701 satellite, located at 180º E, and the customer premise equipment for file storage at Asian broadcast receive stations. BT Broadcast Services is responsible for provisioning and operating the head-end hub and the uplink teleport from its Media Center in Los Angeles.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Norsat Completes Largest Shipment of Ka/Ku Band Commercial ODUs<br /><br />Norsat International Inc has completed the shipment of its 1000th Ka/Ku band terminal to EMS Technologies Inc for deployment on SES-Astra's Broadband Interactive System (BBI).<br /><br />The Norsat outdoor units (ODUs) consist of a high bandwidth transceiver, including a satellite receiver and transmitter, as well as compact consumer 0.76 m or enterprise 1.2 m antennas. Norsat's ODU is compatible with DVB-RCS open standards.<br /><br />Astra's BBI system is the first commercial Ka band two-way broadband satellite service available across Europe. First commercially launched in November 2001, the BBI system provides a two-way satellite-based platform tailored specifically to support broadband Internet access and the distribution of multimedia-rich files across multiple sites. Customers can contribute, at rates of up to 2 Mb/s, data files and pre-recorded or live audio/video direct to satellite via the Ka band (29.5-30.0 GHz) capacity on the Astra 1H satellite at 19.2° East.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />PanAmSat and Embratel to Deliver Services to Remote Areas Of Brazil<br /><br />PanAmSat Corporation has announced a sales agreement between its Brazilian subsidiary, PanAmSat do Brasil Ltda and Empresa Brasileira de Telecomunicacoes (Embratel), one of Latin America's leading telecommunications service providers.<br /><br />PanAmSat is supplying capacity on its PAS-1R Atlantic Ocean Region satellite to support a nationwide VSAT network for Embratel. PAS-1R's strong coverage has enabled Embratel to expand its reach to some of the most distant parts of the region.<br /><br />The agreement with Embratel follows the establishment of PanAmSat's Brazilian subsidiary and the opening of its sales office in Sao Paulo in late 2001. Kevin Calderone, a telecommunications and satellite industry executive with in-depth knowledge of the Brazilian market, is heading up the new office as regional director of sales. PanAmSat also plans to open an office in Rio de Janeiro later this year.<br /><br />Mr Calderone will be responsible for the introduction of PanAmSat's premier satellite services to broadcast, cable, Internet and telecommunications customers throughout the Brazilian market. These offerings include the company's global program distribution, Internet backbone access, business communications and data services as well as special event and ad hoc services.<br /><br />Mr Calderone comes to PanAmSat from Loral Cyberstar, where he was responsible for attracting new customers for high-capacity Internet services as well as the sale of VSAT hardware and associated equipment. Prior to joining Loral, Mr Calderone was regional manager for Timeplex, a leading manufacturer of electronic equipment. He began his career at Tekelec, where he served as regional sales manager for the Latin America, Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions. Mr Calderone was also a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy.<br /><br />In July 2001, ANATEL, the government agency that regulates all telecommunications services in Brazil, authorised the company's PAS-1R Atlantic Ocean Region satellite to deliver services throughout the country. The authorisation provided PanAmSat with direct access to Latin America's leading economy for these services.<br /><br />The PAS-1R authorisation permits PanAmSat to offer value-added services throughout Brazil, including the company's global program distribution, Internet backbone connectivity, business communications, data transmission and webcasting services as well as special event and ad hoc services. PAS-1R, launched in November 2000, is one of the largest and most powerful satellites covering Brazil.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />MILITARY SPACE<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Harris Corporation Receives Antenna Contract Option for Additional Wideband Gapfiller Satellites<br /><br />Harris Corporation has been awarded a contract option by Boeing Satellite Systems (BSS) to secure long-lead materials for the Ka band spot antennas on US Department of Defense (DoD) Wideband Gapfiller Satellites (WGS). The WGS program will provide a high-capacity satellite system, jointly funded by the US Air Force and the US Army, to support the warfighter with newer and far greater wideband communications capabilities than those provided by current systems.<br /><br />Under terms of the contract option, which adds to the deliveries for the first and second satellites, Harris will prepare to deliver a set of Ka band antennas for the third WGS satellite. The antennas will be delivered to BSS in El Segundo, California, for integration onto the satellite. The 10 steerable, solid graphite offset antennas on each satellite provide the critical communications link to user terminals, enabling WGS satellites to securely transmit and receive digital-quality voice, data and imagery. The WGS Ka band antennas will be ready to integrate onto the Boeing 702 satellite bus, providing a relatively simple plug-and-play interface.<br /><br />In a separate contract action in January 2001, Boeing awarded Harris a US$ 300,000 contract to begin engineering and technical support work to ensure that existing ground terminals will be compatible with new WGS satellite communications payloads. The value of the ground segment work for Harris could increase to US$ 7 million over the next five years if options for up to six WGS satellites are exercised, bringing the potential overall value of WGS system-related contracts for Harris to US$ 37 million by 2006.<br /><br />The WGS program will augment DoD communications services currently provided by the Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS), which provides super high frequency (SHF) wideband communications, and the Global Broadcast Service (GBS), which uses direct broadcast satellite technology to provide critical information to US military and allied forces. With an initial launch in early 2004, WGS will serve as a bridge to the Advanced Wideband Satellite system, a high-capacity tactical communications system currently planned for the 2009 timeframe.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Signal Corporation Awarded US Army Satcoms Support Order<br /><br />Signal Corporation has been awarded a new task order totalling over US$ 1.1 million to continue their work in support of the Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS). This work includes engineering design review, onsite installation and integration of satellite systems.<br /><br />As a prime contractor for the US Army Information Systems Engineering Command's (USAISEC) Total Engineering and Integration Service (TEIS) contract, Signal has been providing engineering, installation and integration support to the Transmission Systems Directorate since April 2000. This award is a one-year follow-on to Signal's previous DSCS task orders which have spanned two years. The TEIS contract, valued at US$ 298 million, covers a wide range of services including information systems engineering, systems analysis, information assurance, and test and evaluation work at US Army sites across the country.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />MANNED SPACE<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />MDA Awarded Cdn$ 18 Million for Future Support Of Space Station Robotics<br /><br />The Canadian Space Agency is awarding an Cdn$ 18 million instalment on two existing contracts with MDRobotics, a subsidiary of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.<br /><br />These instalments will help extend logistical support and engineering services being provided to sustain the Mobile Servicing System (MSS), Canada's contribution to the International Space Station. In addition, flight operations activities currently being provided by MD Robotics personnel, on-site at the Canadian Space Agency, are also being extended to March 2003.<br /><br />The Mobile Servicing System is a sophisticated robotic system critical to the assembly, maintenance and servicing of the Space Station during its 15-20 year life expectancy. The MSS includes Canadarm2 launched in 2001, the Mobile Base System scheduled for launch this spring, and a highly evolved two-armed robot known as the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator. This system represents some of the most advanced robotics in the world.<br /><br />Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2002 Government budget and is therefore built into the existing financial framework.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />TECHNOLOGY<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />MicroSat Systems Awards Contract to Raytheon<br /><br />MicroSat Systems Inc (MSI) has announced a US$ 16.4M contract with Raytheon Company Electronics Systems to provide the Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payload for the Technology Satellite of the 21st Century (TechSat 21).<br /><br />MSI, the prime integrator of TechSat 21, along with the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), have created a national program team that includes Raytheon, Global Solar Energy, Broad Reach Engineering, Advanced Solutions Inc, Lockheed Martin, TRW, ITT and General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems.<br /><br />The AFRL Space Vehicles Directorate, and the US Air Force Office of Scientific Research, announced plans for a revolutionary system of formation-flying satellites that quickly adapt to rapidly changing mission requirements. TechSat 21 envisions collaborative clusters of interdependent micro-satellites, each weighing approximately 150 kg and flying in close, bird-like formations. The clusters eventually will circle the earth and replace many of today's single, larger satellites.<br /><br />Three micro-satellites are planned for launch in 2005 on a Boeing Delta IV medium-class Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV). The satellites will operate as a close-proximity cluster with the Raytheon radars synchronised in time and position, creating a virtual satellite providing much greater capability than radar on a single satellite. Other technology applications include global positioning, mapping of the earth's surface and communications.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />LAUNCH SERVICES<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Aerojet Validates Tri-Fluid Injector for Air Force Advanced Reusable Rocket Engine<br /><br />Aerojet has successfully validated its design of a revolutionary tri-fluid propellant injector for non-toxic hydrogen peroxide engines. The injector is a component of the Advanced Reusable Rocket Engine that Aerojet is developing for the Air Force's Space Maneuver Vehicle.<br /><br />The hot fire testing in February and March demonstrated the injector's performance capabilities including its reliable ignition and its stability even at twice the normal throttling range. Tests were conducted on a sub-scale version of the injector using two different injector patterns. Both performed successfully, and one will be chosen for the full-scale tri-fluid injector. Test results indicate that acceptable performance was achieved for both element types. Also, the injector element chug threshold was much lower than anticipated and will serve to provide additional throttling capability well beyond what is required.<br /><br />What makes the tri-fluid injector unique is that decomposed peroxide, used to drive the turbopump, is exhausted into the tri-fluid injector to ignite the engine's hydrogen peroxide and jet fuel propellants. This creates a closed- cycle engine system that does not dump propellants overboard like a typical gas generator cycle engine. The result is higher performance and a wider range of throttleability.<br /><br />Detailed design of the full-scale tri-fluid injector is nearing completion. Hot fire tests are planned for late summer 2002. Aerojet is conducting all injector tests in its new, state-of-the-art peroxide engine test facility, which was built for hands-on development of rocket engines containing environmentally friendly hydrogen peroxide propellants.<br /><br />Aerojet's Advanced Reusable Rocket Engine is a non-toxic, hydrogen peroxide engine that utilises advanced injection concepts, fabrication processes and chamber materials. The Air Force's Space Maneuver Vehicle is an unmanned space vehicle envisioned as a reusable satellite bus. The ARRE also has applications on the Space Launch Initiative, NASA's effort to develop technologies for a second-generation reusable launch vehicle.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Boeing Announces Delta IV Heavy Launch Assignment<br /><br />Boeing has received authority from the US Air Force to proceed with launch service plans for a National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) mission aboard a Boeing Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle.<br /><br />The launch is targeted for 2004 from Space Launch Complex 37, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.<br /><br />Details of the mission were not released, but Boeing officials confirmed the launch is part of the Air Force's Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) program. Boeing was awarded 22 of the 29 launches under the program.<br /><br />Two additional Delta IV Heavy launches, currently manifested for 2003, include a demonstration for the Air Force and an Air Force Defense Support Program mission.<br /><br />The Boeing Delta IV Heavy is the largest of the Delta family of launch vehicles and can lift up to 13,130 kilograms to geosynchronous transfer orbit. It is designed with three common booster cores (CBCs) joined together. A five-meter upper stage sits on top of the core CBC with the capability of carrying either single or multiple payloads. Each CBC is powered by a Boeing-built RS-68 main engine, designed and built by the company's Rocketdyne Propulsion and Power (RPP) business. The RS-68 is the first, new large rocket engine designed and built in the United States since the space shuttle main engine, which is also built by Boeing RPP.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Praxair Signs Contract for Rocket Launch Propellants<br /><br />Praxair Inc has signed a long-term, US$ 35-million agreement with The Boeing Company for the supply of liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen launch propellants for the new RS-68 rocket engine-powered Delta IV launch vehicle.<br /><br />This long-term contract is the first of its kind for the United States propellants industry. Previously, all liquid oxygen/hydrogen propellants for launches from the United States were procured through the US Government.<br /><br />Praxair has been a leading supplier to the US aerospace industry for more than 30 years. Since the early 1960s, Praxair's air separation plant in Mims, Florida has supplied the liquid oxygen and liquid nitrogen needed to prepare and launch bi-propellant vehicles at Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Praxair's Wilmington and Ontario plants in California have supplied liquid oxygen, liquid nitrogen and liquid hydrogen to support development, test and launch activities at Edwards Air Force Base and Vandenberg Air Force Base. Praxair's Theodore and McIntosh, Alabama, plants supply the majority of cryogenic propellants consumed today for engine and component testing at NASA's Stennis Space Center.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Shuttle Atlantis Flies with Three New P&W Fuel Turbopumps<br /><br />Pratt & Whitney (P&W) Space Propulsion has achieved a significant milestone with the launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis (STS-110) from Kennedy Space Center. This launch marks the beginning of Shuttle flight with the new P&W fuel (hydrogen) high-pressure turbopump installed on each of the three Space Shuttle Main Engines (SSME) as key components of the upgraded Block II engine design.<br /><br />P&W's turbopumps, featuring fewer welds, a stronger integral shaft/disk and more robust bearings, provide improved safety margins and life expectancy, which extends the number of Shuttle flights allowed between major overhauls. In addition to the high-pressure fuel and LOX turbopump on each SSME, P&W provides 16 booster separation motors for each Shuttle launch.<br /><br />Last July, a single P&W fuel turbopump flew successfully on Shuttle Atlantis (STS-104) in the debut of the Block II SSME. A second Block II SSME with P&W's fuel turbopump was flown on Shuttle Endeavour (STS-108) last December.<br /><br />P&W will provide overhaul and refurbishment (O&R) for its LOX and fuel turbopump at each overhaul interval (approximately 10 missions). After refurbishment, each turbopump will be returned to Shuttle service for an additional 10 missions. A minimum service life of 3 overhaul intervals, or 30 missions, is anticipated for each turbopump. P&W's turbopump O&R activity will continue throughout the Space Shuttle's operational life, which is currently expected to extend beyond 2012.<br /><br />The new fuel turbopump is produced by P&W at its West Palm Beach, Florida facility and is tested at NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. The SSME Program is managed by NASA's Space Shuttle Projects Office located at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />LAUNCHES<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />STS 110 - ITS S0 Truss and Mobile Transporter<br /><br />Launched: 8 April 2002<br />Site: Kennedy Space Center, Florida<br />Launcher: Shuttle Atlantis (STS-110)<br />Orbit: LEO, apogee: 226 km, perigee: 226 km: inclination: 51.6°<br />International Number: 2002-018A<br />Name: ISS 8A (Integrated Truss Structure SO)<br />Owner: NASA<br />Contractor: Boeing<br /><br />The STS-110 mission resumes ISS construction operations with the delivery of the first segment of the Integrated Truss Structure that will support solar panels providing additional power to the ISS. The STS-110 crew will also install the first part of a Mobile Transporter that will provide a moveable base for the station's Canadian robotic arm.<br /><br />The S0 is one of five truss segments that will eventually span more than 300 feet to carry power, data and environmental services throughout the space station.<br /><br />Crew:<br /><br />Commander: Michael Bloomfield<br />Pilot: Stephen Frick<br />Mission Specialist: Rex Walheim<br />Mission Specialist: Ellen Ochoa<br />Mission Specialist: Lee Morin<br />Mission Specialist: Jerry Ross<br />Mission Specialist: Steven Smith<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Launch Schedule<br /><br />April: Intelsat 905 on an Ariane from CSG Kourou, French Guiana<br />April 16: NSS-7 on an Ariane 4 from CSG Kourou, French Guiana<br />April 27: Soyuz (ISS flight 4S) on a Soyuz U from Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan<br />April 28: Aqua on a Delta 2 from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California<br />April 28: classified NRO satellite on a Titan 4 (B-36) from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida<br />April 28: DirecTV 5 on a Proton K/DM 3 from Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan<br />May: Galaxy 3C on a Zenit 3SL from Sea Launch's Odyssey platform in the Pacific Ocean<br />May: Spot 5 on an Ariane 5 from CSG Kourou, French Guiana<br />May 9: Hot Bird 6 on an Atlas 5 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida<br />May 21: Progress M-46 on a Soyuz-U from Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan<br />May 28: Asiasat 4 on an Atlas 3B from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida<br />May 31: ISS UF 2 (Multi Purpose Logistics Module) on the Shuttle Endeavour (STS-111) from the Kennedy Space Center, Florida<br />June 24: NOAA-M on a Titan 2 from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California<br />July 1: Contour on a Delta 2 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />BUSINESS<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Alcatel Space and Gilat Announce Strategic Broadband Partnership<br /><br />Alcatel Space and Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd have reached an agreement in principle to form a strategic partnership that will focus on significant enhancements to and further development of the Gilat 360 broadband satellite platform. The companies will also co-operate on marketing satellite broadband residential products and solutions to telecommunications operators (telcos) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) world-wide.<br /><br />This agreement is part of Alcatel and Gilat’s overall commitment to their joint venture with SES Global, to provide two-way broadband services.<br /><br />Alcatel Space and Gilat’s agreement has the following objectives:<br /><br />*· Continue to improve the cost effectiveness, performance and competitiveness<br /> of the 360 platform;<br />*· Achieve seamless integration with telcos’ terrestrial broadband<br /> infrastructures;<br />*· Work on convergence between Gilat’s 360 consumer platform and DVB-RCS to<br /> prepare a future world-wide satellite standard.<br /><br />The companies’ agreement also gives Alcatel certain exclusive rights to market the residential 360 platform to telcos and ISPs through its world-wide sales and marketing organisation. Alcatel and Gilat intend to continue to promote their respective solutions for enterprises, based on DVB-RCS for Alcatel and Skystar Advantage for Gilat.<br /><br />A definitive agreement is expected during the coming weeks.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Barutiwa Reinvents Itself<br /><br />Barutiwa Communication Media Link Corp, an African-American owned publicly traded entity, has completed the revision of its business plan. The revised business plan calls for Barutiwa to reinvent itself as a pure holding company. Barutiwa will operate six majority owned subsidiaries in the fields of publishing, new media and high technology. Furthermore, Barutiwa is currently accumulating minority stakes in more than 1000 publicly traded companies competing in new media and futuristic industries such as space tourism and space burial.<br /><br />Barutiwa's business plan calls for the creation of non-commercial web sites to provide various ethnic groups and political organisations an elaborate vehicle to genuinely champion their voice. Once these particular web sites are developed with more than 20,000 members, the respective web sites (or Internet Assets) will be sold to interested parties for prices ranging from US$ 3,000 to US$ 30,000. Each Internet Asset developed will be incorporated and assigned different management.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />California Amplifier Acquires Kaul-Tronics Business<br /><br />California Amplifier Inc has acquired the satellite antenna business of Kaul-Tronics Inc and two affiliated companies (collectively, "KTI"), in a stock and cash transaction.<br /><br />The transaction, which is valued at approximately US$ 22 million, consists of the acquisition of substantially all of the assets, including inventory, equipment, real estate and intellectual property and the assumption of certain liabilities of KTI. In 2001, KTI had revenues of approximately US$ 36 million, pretax income of approximately US$ 4.8 million and EBITDA of approximately US$ 5.8 million. KTI's 2001 revenues included approximately US$ 12 million in satellite LNBF products of the type produced by California Amplifier.<br /><br />KTI is one of North America's leading manufacturers of DBS satellite dishes and also manufactures several larger offset antennas, including elliptical antennas for multi-satellite reception and offset antennas for international and commercial markets. In addition, KTI offers a complete line of satellite installation accessories.<br /><br />Under the terms of the purchase agreement, California Amplifier paid approximately US$ 22 million, comprised of US$ 5 million in common stock (929,086 shares based on the 30-day average closing price through April 3, 2002) and US$ 17 million cash. Of the cash portion, US$ 12 million has been provided under an interim increase in the Company's revolving line of credit. It is expected that the Company's borrowing facility will shortly be restructured into an approximately US$ 29.3 million secured credit facility, including a US$ 13 million revolving facility, and a US$ 16.3 million term loan facility.<br /><br />California Amplifier will continue to operate KTI's present facilities in Wisconsin and will assume management control of all operations effective immediately.<br /><br />The Company currently estimates fiscal 2003 first quarter revenues in the range of US$ 20 to US$ 25 million and earnings in the range of US$ 0.04-US$ 0.07 per diluted share after giving effect to the KTI acquisition.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Eutelsat Increases Investment in Hispasat<br /><br />Eutelsat's stake in Hispasat has increased to 27.69% from 21.15%. Eutelsat signed an agreement with Hispasat in August 2001 to enter into the capital of the company with the potential to enlarge its investment. The increased stake takes Eutelsat's representation on Hispasat's Board of Shareholders from two to three seats.<br /><br />Operating Spain's regional satellite system that provides services to the Iberian peninsula and Latin America, Hispasat shareholders include Auna, BBVA, Admira (a Telefonica subsidiary) and EADS-CASA. The company manages three Hispasat satellites with a fourth due for launch in 2002. Its capacity is used for consumer television broadcasting, telecommunications networks, high-speed Internet connections and multicasting.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Mentergy to Spin-Off Satellite-Based Communications Services Business<br /><br />Training and learning solutions provider Mentergy Ltd has signed a binding share purchase agreement for the sale of two wholly owned subsidiaries, Gilat Satcom Ltd, and Israsat International Communications Ltd, which comprise its satellite-based communications services business (together "Gilat Satcom").<br /><br />Under the share purchase agreement, the shares of Gilat Satcom would be purchased by Lito Ofsset "Ziv" Ltd., an Israeli company (Ziv), in exchange for the issuance to Mentergy of new shares of Ziv, such that following completion of the transaction Mentergy is expected to hold 70% of the outstanding ordinary shares of Ziv on a fully diluted basis.<br /><br />The consummation of the transaction is contingent, among other things, upon the approval of the transaction by Mentergy's bank creditors, regulatory authorities in Israel, and Ziv's shareholders. The transaction is also contingent upon the successful re-listing of Ziv's shares on the Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange where it was previously listed.<br /><br />Gilat Satcom and Israsat Communications (together "Gilat Satcom") was established approximately 10 years ago, and today it is a leading provider of satellite based communication services in Israel. Gilat Satcom offers its customers private networks communication services in Israel, international communication services and Internet access services to companies and organisations world-wide, based on satellite technologies. Today, Gilat Satcom maintains approximately 2,500 sites in private communication networks for leading organisations in Israel, including among others health services organisations, National Sports betting and Lottery, universities, financial institutes and government institutions. Gilat Satcom also operates international communication services, point to point satellite links and Internet backbone connectivity over satellite for information carriers, financial institutes and more, as well as satellite infrastructure for the e-Learning industry.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />New Broadband Joint Venture in Europe<br /><br />SES Global, Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd as well as the Alcatel Space and SkyBridge, subsidiaries of Alcatel, today announced the formation of a new company that will provide two-way satellite broadband communications services to enterprises, consumers and small office/home office (SOHO) users throughout Europe.<br /><br />The value of the company exceeds EUR 200 million and includes cash of more than EUR 50 million with additional contributions from each of the partners. Such contributions include existing facilities, satellite transponders, hubs, terminals, other technology and technical as well as marketing assistance.<br /><br />In the enterprise market and for some small and medium size enterprises (SMEs), the venture will offer complete satellite communications services. These services will be provided both directly by the new company and through wholesalers and will utilise Gilat’s Skystar Advantage VSAT product, as well as SES Astra’s Broadband Interactive System (BBI), which is based on the DVB-RCS standard.<br /><br />In the consumer and SOHO markets, and for some SMEs, the company will provide broadband communication services via Gilat’s 360 VSAT satellite modem at speeds up to 20 times higher than dial-up modems. In these markets, the company will serve as a wholesale provider of broadband services - such as hub operations, space segment, second-level help desk, maintenance and engineering support - to telcos, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and direct-to-home television (DTH TV) providers. DTH TV providers can use the company to combine their services with broadband Internet on a single dish.<br /><br />SES Global and Gilat have executed definitive agreements whereby they will serve as equal shareholders (50/50 initially) in the new company, which will be headquartered in Luxembourg. SES Global and SES Astra will provide space segment over Europe and contribute hub and terminals, which constitute part of its innovative BBI system, as well as cash. Gilat will enter into a supply agreement for its Skystar Advantage and 360 VSAT products and make available its satellite hub equipment, its service licenses and rights, and its existing wholesale contracts with broadband service providers. The German cartel authority has cleared the joint venture between SES Global and Gilat on April 4, 2002.<br /><br />Alcatel Space and SkyBridge have executed an agreement in principle with the new company in connection with a potential investment, which is subject to signature of definitive agreement and regulatory approval. Alcatel will make technical and marketing contributions as well as a cash investment to the new venture in exchange for a 20% equity stake. As a consequence, SES Global and Gilat shares will be diluted proportionally. All three partners will contribute management expertise to the joint venture.<br /><br />The new company will acquire 100% of Gilat Europe companies, including the Gilat Satellite Networks subsidiary based in Backnang, Germany. Gilat Europe has offices and operating licenses across Europe and has deployed enterprise-wide VSAT networks for companies such as Peugeot/Citroen, GIS Bank, Esso Deutschland, TOTAL, AGIP, and GE Capital Bank. Approximately 120 employees - including all of Gilat Europe’s staff, part of SkyBridge’s European staff and part of SES Multimedia’s staff - will be transferred to the new entity.<br /><br />The company’s name, its board of directors and management team will be announced within the coming weeks. The company’s operations will be supported by far-reaching industrial and marketing agreements between Alcatel and Gilat, as well as between Alcatel and SES Global.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />SES Global and Alcatel Space Announce Broadband Access Partnership<br /><br />SES Global and Alcatel Space have announced the formation of a strategic partnership for the implementation of two-way satellite based systems using SES’ Broadband Interactive System (BBI) technology based on the DVB-RCS standard and targeting the Enterprise market.<br /><br />SES pioneered the open DVB-RCS standard to provide two-way satellite broadband access using Ku and Ka band frequencies to professional users such as corporations and small and medium-sized companies (SME). The BBI solution was launched commercially in November 2001.<br /><br />Under the strategic partnership, SES Global will transfer to Alcatel Space the prime responsibility of the BBI technology development. Alcatel will continue the development of the system and ensure future supply of gateway and terminal products.<br /><br />SES Global will co-operate with Alcatel in the definition of future product enhancements and in ensuring the broad commercial availability on a global basis of DVB-RCS products. The strategic partnership aims to further enhance the BBI technology by:<br /><br />* improving satellite transponder efficiency and system capacity;<br />*· optimising the cost and performance of end-user terminals;<br />*· maximising the integration of broadband satellite and telecommunication<br /> networks;<br />*· extending the variety of services supported by the BBI system.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />PRODUCTS AND SERVICES<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Inmarsat Announce Availability of the 64kbit/s Mobile Office in the Sky<br /><br />Inmarsat Limited has announced the commercial availability of Swift64, a service which gives aircraft passengers the ability to access Internet-based applications such as email, video streaming and file transfer whilst in the air.<br /><br />Swift64 will give the aero traveller all the functionality and applications he expects in his office even crossing the Atlantic at 35,000 ft.<br /><br />The initial service offering will provide passengers in the corporate jet market with ISDN speeds of 64 kb/s. Later this year this will be expanded to include a Mobile Packet Data service based on IP-protocol, and by the end of the year will be available to the commercial airline market.<br /><br />Inmarsat announced that Telenor Satellite Services of Norway and USA, have been authorised in all four ocean regions for Swift64 services. Initially the Swift64 compatible avionics are being provided by Honeywell/Thales, with other manufacturers expected shortly. Since the new service is compatible with existing Inmarsat Aero H antennas, Aero HSD avionics will be made available for "stand alone" installation or for upgrades of existing Aero-H installations. The service also supports secure communications over a wide range of secure terminals including STU-III, STU-IIB, KIV7, and STE. This feature makes it especially attractive to government and military customers needing reliable and secure data and voice communications for in-flight operations and crew use.<br /><br />The Inmarsat Swift64 platform will offer clear cost benefits to aircraft operators by utilising existing aircraft communications infrastructure to provide fast email and Internet access, video conferencing facilities and file transfer capability to aircraft passengers.<br /><br />Today, up to 80% of modern long haul commercial aircraft and over 1000 corporate jets already have the Inmarsat satellite communications antenna infrastructure needed to carry Swift64 services.<br /><br />The solution comprising mobile ISDN and mobile packet data services, will utilise elements of Inmarsat's existing Inmarsat Global Area Network (GAN) platform already delivering up to 64 kb/s data rates to land-based business world-wide. Ultimately Swift64 users will benefit from 64 kb /s ISDN speed or packet data `always on' technology which means that the user is only charged for the data that they send and receive, not the time they are connected.<br /><br />Passengers of Swift64 enabled aircraft will be able to access Inmarsat's services via on-board servers as part of an email or aircraft intranet solution. An email server will manage passenger capacity assignment and switching of Satcom, Gatelink and other transmission systems. Passenger-to-server connection can be delivered by a range or methods including an Ethernet LAN at data rates up to 100Mbit/s or future wireless alternatives.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Irdeto Access Launches Irdeto PIsys, Conditional Access System<br /><br />Irdeto Access has announced the release of Irdeto PIsys, the company's latest DVB conditional-access system for large-scale satellite DTH, cable, IPTV, and terrestrial broadcasting. Irdeto PIsys incorporates a wide range of innovative features to provide the highest level of security, flexibility, and ease of use for all forms of digital pay-media content.<br /><br />Irdeto Access is a subsidiary of MIH Limited, the subscriber platforms and supporting technologies group.<br /><br />The Irdeto PIsys system is designed for large-scale installations and enables operators to secure content and manage entitlements for millions of subscribers. Irdeto PIsys allows users to configure, maintain, and monitor conditional access to content easily and quickly with a user-friendly graphical user interface.<br /><br />The system is compatible with a wide range of set-top boxes, compression equipment, and subscriber management systems.<br /><br />With Irdeto PIsys, subscribers access content with a personalised smart card that validates their entitlement. Powerful features include blackout control, positive and negative entitlements, and IRD (set-top box) fingerprinting.<br /><br />Implemented by messages played out to the smart card using high-level industry-standard encryption in combination with Irdeto Access-patented technology, they make control over subscriber access more precise than ever, reducing the need for customer service calls and increasing the integrity of pay-media systems.<br /><br />Even with these features, Irdeto PIsys requires minimal bandwidth for conditional access control, while allowing conditional access messages to be cycled at higher rates than in previous-generation systems and thus reducing overall costs while increasing security.<br /><br />Designed to allow operators to configure, maintain, and monitor their systems easily and quickly, enhanced Irdeto PIsys features include internal diagnostics and on-screen problem detection, allowing head-end users to view system status with a single glance, whether using Irdeto PIsys' powerful monitoring tools or SNMP-based monitoring systems.<br /><br />Multiple security levels allow operational staff members to be assigned one of six degrees of access authorisation within the system.<br /><br />Providing a versatile base for continuous growth, Irdeto PIsys offers support for IPPV, OPPV, T-Commerce, Code Download, NVOD/VOD, and personal video recorders (PVRs) via optional modules. Designed for use world-wide, the Irdeto PIsys subscriber interface and messages can be localised for any environment, and a single Irdeto PIsys system can be used to support multiple operators on multiple sectors of a smart card.<br /><br />When combined with Irdeto CypherCast, Irdeto PIsys works as a convergent head-end to manage both TV and Internet content. With a single smart card, subscribers can access all of an operator's pay-media content packages, including TV channels and Internet streaming media.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Motorola and N2 Broadband to Maximise Satellite Bandwidth<br /><br />Motorola Broadband Communications Sector and N2 Broadband have announced an integrated content delivery solution that enables content providers to maximise existing satellite bandwidth and infrastructure when delivering 'on-demand' content to broadband network operators.<br /><br />The solution is an integration of N2 Broadband's MediaPath digital asset management and delivery solution and Motorola's DigiCipher II uplink systems and DSR 4500X Integrated Receiver-Decoder (IRD) platform with built-in IP data port. This solution most directly benefits content providers deploying these products commercially and rolling out video-on-demand (VOD) or subscription-based video-on-demand (SVOD).<br /><br />The N2 Broadband content delivery solution can be used with existing Motorola DigiCipher II infrastructure and satellite bandwidth to deliver VOD or SVOD services to broadband network operators. Prior to this integration, N2 Broadband customers used bandwidth from an additional transponder or sent a separate "sidecar" to carry another transport stream. This solution simplifies the process by multiplexing (combining) the N2 Broadband MediaPath feed with the existing broadcast feed.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Satellite Tool Kit 4.3 Released<br /><br />Analytical Graphics Inc (AGI) has released Satellite Tool Kit (STK) version 4.3. The most adaptable version of AGI's commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software to date and the first to include an add-on module dedicated to attitude analysis, STK 4.3 offers complete situational awareness for design, operations, and analysis of aerospace and defence systems.<br /><br />The flexibility of the new release allows users to configure and extend STK to meet specific needs through a new geometry tool; "plug-in" points for custom equations; and the STK/Attitude module.<br /><br />The STK software suite is customisable in multiple ways. To help break down complex system dynamics, users can create custom points, axes, vectors, and co-ordinate systems with STK 4.3's new geometry tool. User-defined equations can be inserted into key points of STK's computational architecture to support specific requirements or legacy systems using MATLAB, Perl, or Visual Basic scripts. Finally, the new STK/Attitude module provides analysts detailed views of vehicles' complex motions, more flexible attitude profiles, and a simulator that models and corrects for disturbances.<br /><br />Basic STK applications include calculating and visualising a vehicle's position and attitude, analysing its field of view, and determining acquisition times. The functionality of STK can be extended with add-on modules that support specialised tasks including 3-D battlespace visualisation, communications link analysis, collision avoidance, manoeuvre planning, real-time data interfacing, high-fidelity missile modelling, GIS analysis, attitude simulation, orbit determination, and coverage assessment.<br /><br />STK Standard is available free of charge to all aerospace and defence professionals.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />SkyStream Unveils EVR-7000 Edge Video Router<br /><br />SkyStream Networks has unveiled its new Edge Video Router (EVR-7000), a powerful, enterprise-class appliance that streamlines the delivery and management of TV video and IP data multicast services in corporate environments.<br /><br />SkyStream's EVR-7000 is the industry's first edge video delivery device that integrates essential capabilities such as secure content delivery and simultaneous device playback into a single networking device at a minimal cost. Several leading satellite service providers have announced their support for the EVR-7000 including Georgia-based Convergent Media, NetSat Express and Verestar.<br /><br />The EVR enables the simultaneous delivery of live and pre-recorded MPEG and IP-based video to be viewed on TVs and desktops. The EVR also features on-demand streaming of MPEG video to desktops and data routing capabilities. It is also integrated with third party web and streaming media cache servers, allowing content to be pushed directly into these caches. This eliminates long integration tasks and provides easy access to all types of content by employees. SkyStream's EVR-7000 is appropriate for the reception and delivery of the following video-based content including:<br /><br />*· Live event programming - receiving and displaying live MPEG TV events such<br /> as management updates, training videos, and kiosk advertisements<br />*· Pre-recorded corporate TV - delivery of pre-recorded MPEG video to either<br /> the TV or via IP multicast delivery to the desktop (e.g., pre-recorded<br /> company messages such as training presentations)<br />*· Enterprise and SOHO content access - delivering live video, web data and<br /> streaming media files for playback at small remote offices<br /><br />This high-performance, all-in-one platform combines the functionalities of Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) with the company's zBand Content Delivery technology for fast, efficient and reliable file transfer, video playout to the TV, and MPEG video delivery over IP to desktops. As the newest addition to the SkyStream edge product family, the EVR-7000 also includes E-Manager, a comprehensive set of tools with a highly intuitive user interface for the deployment and management of multicast services delivery.<br /><br />The EVR will be available directly from SkyStream Networks and authorised resellers in June 2002.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Tachyon Launches Transportable Broadband Network Access<br /><br />Tachyon Inc has introduced Mobile Network Access, the first cost-effective Internet or enterprise network connectivity service for organisations that need transportable broadband network access. It is ideal for corporations, government agencies and institutions requiring high-speed public or private network access for special events, construction sites, emergency response or other short-term or remote location applications.<br /><br />Featuring a modular satellite dish and compact carrying cases that make it transportable to any location, Mobile Network Access represents an entirely new category of product, with pricing far below alternative solutions that can cost thousands of dollars per hour. Tachyon's service prices range from US$ 600 to US$ 2,000 per month for T-1 service, depending on the number of days that the unit is deployed.<br /><br />Tachyon's patented signal processing technology offers the fastest transmission speeds available compared to other wireless or satellite alternatives, with data rates of up to 2Mb/s. While service for Mobile Network Access is currently only available in the US, the company's satellite capacity covers all of North America, Europe, parts of Northern Africa and the Middle East. Plans for global expansion of the Mobile Network Access service are now underway.<br /><br />Mobile Network Access combines Tachyon's broadband satellite service with its new Quick Deploy Customer Premise Equipment (CPE), which can be assembled to begin delivering high-speed access in approximately 30 minutes. Quick Deploy CPE is TCP/IP standards-compliant and allows easy integration with an organisation’s existing enterprise.<br /><br />The CPE includes the Tachyon network router; a ruggedised satellite dish (1.2 m diameter, assembled), a radio for transmitting and receiving data via satellite, shipping cases, and associated cables and accessories.<br /><br />Virtual Private Network (VPN) Accelerator hardware is also available as an option. Tachyon's VPN Accelerator enables industry-standard IPSec encryption protocols for companies needing the highest levels of security, delivering end-to-end encryption with all the performance of terrestrial lines.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Telenor Satellite Services to Launch Global Maritime Communications Service<br /><br />Telenor Satellite Services, the first Land Earth Station Operator (LESO) within the Inmarsat system to receive formal approval from Inmarsat for commercial operation of the new maritime service Fleet, has announced that the service is now available to customers globally.<br /><br />Telenor's Fleet service offers the maritime community the most advanced mobile satellite communications technology available for high-speed commercial communications and enhanced safety at sea.<br /><br />Available today to all ocean regions through Telenor's Eik Land Earth Station in Norway and its Santa Paula, California, facility in the United States, Telenor's Fleet service via Inmarsat delivers a wide range of commercial communications needs for voice, fax and data services at speeds of up to 64 kb/s, including the rapid mobile Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and the new, resource-efficient Mobile Packet Data Service.<br /><br />The service available today, "Fleet F77", is targeted primarily for ocean-going vessels such as tankers, container ships, fishing vessels, and large yachts, using equipment smaller than the current Inmarsat-B antenna. Fleet's ISDN service provides broadcast quality audio and video enabling video conferencing, e-commerce, high volume data transfer, distance learning, and remote performance monitoring.<br /><br />The new service also offers the flexibility of Mobile Packet Data Service, providing maritime customers the benefit of paying only for data they transmit and receive instead of paying for the time they are connected to the satellite. This feature is particularly valuable for mariners using global Internet applications including Web access, file transfer and e-mail.<br /><br />Fleet's packet data technology enables users to share satellite resources. This increases efficiency and reduces costs.<br /><br />Fleet also brings a new dimension of safety to maritime communications. Fleet meets the International Maritime Organisation's criteria for global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) by providing pre-emption and voice prioritisation for five levels of priorities; distress, urgency, safety, and routine (personal and business) communications.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Wegener Introduces Compel Customer Web Access<br /><br />Wegener Corporation has announced Compel Customer Web Access, a web based satellite network control solution tailored to the non-technical user.<br /><br />Compel Customer Web Access is also available with integrated Mediaplan. Mediaplan enables network operators to create original content right from their desktop, transmit the data via satellite in the most cost-effective method, store it locally, and deliver the content to the right audience at the right time.<br /><br />Compel Customer Web Access is available for immediate shipment.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Wegener's Unity200 for Digital Audio Distribution<br /><br />Wegener Corporation has announced the Unity200, a cost effective DVB digital audio satellite receiver for private audio and radio networks. The Unity200 also features an optional audio storage card for localised ad insertion.<br /><br />The Unity200 rounds out Wegener's Unity family of DVB products, adding a cost effective MCPC audio receiver to the line. The Unity product line includes digital solutions for the distribution of video, audio, and IP data.<br /><br />The Unity200 is now shipping.<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />PEOPLE<br /><br />**********************************************************************<br /><br />Fantastic Announces Management Changes<br /><br />The Fantastic Corporation has appointed Alain D Bandle as Chief Executive Officer, responsible for all operations as of April 11, 2002. Bandle will report to Reto Braun, who has also held the position of CEO to date and will stay with Fantastic and take on the full time position of Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors.<br /><br />Bandle brings to the company extensive experience in sales, marketing and general management. His career includes international management positions in the IT, telecommunications, service and consumer goods industries. During more than ten years of employment at Hewlett-Packard, he held positions with increasing marketing and sales responsibilit
