[Satellite Today 02-09-09] Arianespace has won the contract to launch two new satellites for Gazprom Space Systems, the company announced Feb. 6. Arianespace will now launch Gazprom’s two new communications satellites, Yamal-401 and Yamal-402. The two satellites are being built by Thales Alenia Space. The two satellites are expected to launch in the second half of 2011.
    Offering a design life exceeding 15 years, the two satellites will provide fixed communications and television transmission services. Yamal-401 will weigh 4,900 kg at launch, and will be equipped with 36 Ku-band and 17 C-band transponders. It will be positioned at 90° East. Yamal-402, weighing 4,800 kg at launch, will have 46 Ku-band transponders and be positioned at 55° East.