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TECHNICAL TROUBLES HINDERED LAUNCH OF PROTON RUSSIAN CARRIER ROCKET

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MOSCOW, May 22 (RIA Novosti) - The launch of the Russian Proton-M carrier rocket with an American DIREC TV-8 communication satellite has been postponed till May 22, a Khrunichev Center spokesman said. The launch has been originally scheduled for Saturday.

He said the postponement was caused by technical troubles of unspecified character.

The launch is planned for 9:59 p.m. (Moscow time) on Sunday.

After reaching the orbit, DIREC TV-8 will be able to provide TV services in Ku-range, which U.S. customers can order specifically.

The satellite has 16 high-power transponders capable of transmitting high-quality digital signals. It will provide quality imaging services with increased coding/decoding speed.

The satellite is based on a proven and highly reliable LS-1300 platform designed by Space Systems Loral. The LS-1300 platform for geostationary satellites has a 15-year service span and maintains its position on the orbit with the help of a two-part propulsion system and a movement control system.

In addition, the combination of highly efficient solar batteries and low-weight storage batteries permits the platform to produce electric power constantly. The estimated capacity of the system at the end of the service term is 8,500 Watts, although at the rocket-separation stage it will weigh less than 3,800 kilograms.

The DIREC TV-8 satellite is registered with the International Telecommunications Union and will maintain a geostationary position at 101 degrees western longitude. In addition, the satellite can work at 110 and 119 degrees western longitude, which also belong to DIREC TV.

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