The FCC dismissed applications by Rainbow DBS Co. for DBS space stations at 175 degrees west longitude (32 channels), 166 degrees WL (32 channels) and 157 degrees WL (29 channels). In Report SAT-00348, the FCC explained that on Dec. 21, 2005, it nullified the results of Auction 52 for DBS licenses conducted on July 14, 2005 and adopted a freeze on all new DBS service applications. Therefore, the Rainbow DBS applications were dismissed without prejudice.
The government of Canada has requested frequency coordination for two Canadian C-band earth stations. One of these is located at Stoney Creek, Ontario and would communicate with Intelsat 907. The other is located in Montreal and would communicate with Galaxy IIIC. Comments on this coordination must be filed no later than April 13, 2006. For additional information on the earth stations and filing procedures, see FCC Report SPB-214.
An Ariane 6 ECA rocket successfully boosted the HOT BIRD 7A telecommunications satellite into orbit on Saturday, March 11. HOT BIRD 7A is the newest member of Eutelsat's HOT BIRD family of satellites. It will broadcast digital TV channels as well as radio services in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. It joins other HOT BIRD satellites at 13 degrees east longitude, replacing the HOT BIRD 1 satellite. The Alcatel Alenia Spacebus 3000B3 satellite had a launch weight of 4,100 Kg and carries 38 Ku-band transponders powered by solar panels capable of delivering 10 kW of electrical power.
For additional information, visit Alcatel Alenia.
