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Elon Musk’s SpaceX launches African-Asian focused Thai satellite

By , IT in government editor
South Africa , 07 Jan 2014

Elon Musk’s SpaceX launches African-Asian focused Thai satellite

SpaceX, which is owned by South African born technology entrepreneur Elon Musk, has successfully helped launch the THAICOM 6 satellite into space.

THAICOM 6 is a conventional satellite model built by the Orbital Sciences Corporation and contains 33 transponders including 24 C-band transponders and 9 Ku-band transponders

The 24 C-band is planned to enable the satellite to provide communication services in regions such as Southeast Asia and Africa, according to a statement.

THAICOM 6 is also expected to serve the broadcast industry with higher quality digital TV services and more high definition channels.

Speaking about the satellite launch president of SpaceX, Gwynne Shotwell said, “Today’s successful launch of the THAICOM 6 satellite marks the eighth successful flight in a row for Falcon 9.”

She added, “SpaceX greatly appreciates THAICOM’s support throughout this campaign and we look forward to a busy launch schedule in 2014.”

SpaceX is a satellite company that designs, manufactures, and launches the world's most advanced rockets and spacecraft.

Thaicom chairman of the executive committee and chief executive officer, Suphajee Suthumpun, said “This is the good news for the New Year 2014, Thaicom has successfully launched THAICOM 6 satellite into orbit.”

“THAICOM 6 will serve the customer need and also strengthen THAICOM’s hotbird platform on 78.5 degrees East. At present the company has already acquired total of over 60% booking on THAICOM 6’s capacity,” she added.

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