Russia’s Express-AM8 now operational

RSCC’s Zheleznogorsk satellite control facility

Russian satellite operator RSCC’s new Express-AM8 satellite has become operational at the 14° West orbital slot.

Express-AM8 is designed for TV broadcasting services including those distributed nationally across Russia under the country’s Federal TV development programme, as well as data and internet access, corporate and agency-owned communications networks. Express-AM8 also provides communications services for marine and mobile applications.

The coverage zones of Express-AM8 in the С- and Ku-bands include Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America.

“By commissioning the Express-AM8 satellite, RSCC completes the implementation of the Development of TV and Radio Broadcasting in the Russian Federation in 2009-2018 Federal Target Programme in respect of the orbital constellation deployment,” said RSCC Director-General Yuri Prokhorov.

“Thanks to satellite technologies, 98% of Russia’s residents have access to digital broadcasts. Our Company has fulfilled its obligations to build the space segment and terrestrial infrastructure for distributing generic TV/radio digital packages across Russia.”