Eutelsat ‘not impacted’ by lost W2M

Last week Eutelsat declined to accept the W2M satellite, citing on-board problems with the craft. India’s Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which now says it is analysing the problem “in the hope of reviving the satellite,” largely built the craft.

ISRO spokesman S Satish, speaking in Bangalore, confirmed that similar problems had affected two previous ISRO satellites (Insat-1C and 2D). "It is really unfortunate but we have to take the failure in its stride," said K.R. Sridharamurthi, executive director of Antrix, the commercial arm of ISRO.

He said a confidentiality agreement with Astrium prevented him from discussing anything further about the satellite problem, adding that the craft had performed well during its first 5 weeks of life (it was launched in December).

Industry sources say that a sudden failure of its electrical sub-systems during the night of Jan 22-23 occurred as the craft was being re-positioned from its test orbit to its destination position for Eutelsat at 16 deg East.

A second satellite (‘Hylas’) with very similar specifications is being built by ISRO for Avanti Communications for launch later this year.

Meanwhile, a note from investment bankers Morgan Stanley says that Eutelsat’s income will not be impacted by the loss. The satellite is fully insured.