26590 - INTELSAT 12 (IS-12)

INTELSAT 12 was a European geosynchronous communications spacecraft launched by an Ariane 44LP rocket at 04:59 UT from Kourou. The 4.2 ton (with fuel) spacecraft carried 30 Ku-band transponders to provide direct-to-home video, internet, and high speed data transmission among South Africa, Europe and the Indian subcontinent after parking over 45 degrees E longitude. It was the 100th successful launch by Ariane rockets, almost coinciding with the 100th launch of the American Shuttle mission.

Alternate Names

EuropeStar 1
IS-12

Facts in Brief

Launch Date: 2000-10-30
Launch Vehicle: Ariane 44LP
Launch Site: Kourou, French Guiana