Boeing on Schedule to Deliver World’s 1st All-Electric Satellites
Primary structures completed for two Boeing 702SP spacecraft for ABS and Eutelsat
April 8, 2014 /3BL Media/ - Boeing [NYSE: BA] is on track to deliver the world's first all-electric propulsion satellites in late 2014 or early 2015 as it has met key production milestones on its initial 702SP (small platform) satellites.
Boeing recently completed static qualification testing, verification and assembly of the primary structures for 702SP inaugural customers ABS and Eutelsat, with the spacecraft scheduled to be launched as a pair in a stacked configuration. The initial contract was signed in 2012 between Boeing and Satmex. Eutelsat acquired Satmex in January 2014.
"We will be first to launch a commercial all-electric satellite, providing customers new flexibility and next-generation technology for increased performance," said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems. "The all-electric propulsion design gives customers more affordable launch options and the ability to nearly double payload capacity."
Boeing is building two pairs of 702SP satellites under a joint four-satellite agreement with ABS and Eutelsat. Production on the 702SP satellites began in 2013, after the spacecraft passed its critical design review.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $33 billion business with 57,000 employees worldwide. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense.
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Joanna Climer
Space & Intelligence Systems
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joanna.e.climer@boeing.com
