The Express AM6 satellite prior to launch. Photo: TsENKI
[Via Satellite 10-28-2014] Russia Satellite Communications Company (RSCC) has confirmed the Express AM6 satellite is performing nominally despite launching into a lower orbit on Oct. 21 using a Proton rocket. Following the launch, which was reported as successful, evidence arose that the satellite was delivered into the wrong orbit.
Express AM6 was originally expected to enter service in early 2015. Now the satellite is expected to reach Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) by July 1, 2015. Built by ISS Reshetnev, the Express AM6 is using electric propulsion for orbit raising. RSCC is unable to accelerate the orbit raising to compensate for the launch, requiring a delay of several months.
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