Lifting off during a daylight departure from French Guiana, the Ariane 5 rocket deployed Arsat-2 and Australia's Sky Muster during a 32-minute flight sequence. It marked the 82nd mission using Arianespace's workhorse launcher, as well as the 68th consecutive Ariane 5 success.
Arsat-2 will be delivering direct-to-home (DTH), video transport, Internet and IP-voice services through one C-band aerial and two in Ku-band, as well as increasing Argentina's broadcasting capability across Latin America.
"Launch after launch, success after success, Arianespace demonstrates its capability to increase its launch rates while remaining the most reliable space transportation solution for all customers, whether commercial and institutional," said chairman and CEO of Arianespace, Stéphane Israël.
Arsat-2 launch followed Arsat-1's launch in October 2014. And now Arianespace will have the opportunity to go 'three-for-three' after concluding a launch contract for a third Arsat telecommunications satellite. Signed at the space centre just hours before the flight, this agreement also includes options on two more missions.
"We have once again chosen the world's most reliable launch service provider, Arianespace, to orbit our upcoming satellite, thereby strengthening Argentina's dual role as constructor and operator," said Matias Bianchi, Arsat's chairman and CEO. "Through these planned new satellites, Arsat supports Argentina's policy for the development of the national satellite industry."