27831 - OPTUS C1

Optus 1C is an Australian dual-use (civil-military) geostationary satellite that was launched by an Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou at 22:38 UT on 11 June 2003. The 4.7 tonne satellite carries 24 Ku-band civilian transponders and eight military transponders. The civilian part of the payload enables video and internet links to Australia, New Zealand and East Asia, after parking over 156 degrees E longitude.

Facts in Brief

Launch Date: 2003-06-11
Launch Vehicle: Ariane 5
Launch Site: Kourou, French Guiana