[Satellite TODAY Insider 12-13-11] Khrunichev State Research and Space Production Center of Moscow have successfully launched Spacecom’s Amos-5 satellite and Russia’s tracking and data relay system Luch 5A into orbit on board a Proton Breeze-M rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, the company confirmed Dec. 11. Israeli satellite operator Spacecom said its Amos-5 spacecraft separated from the launcher’s last stage within nine-and-a-half hours following ignition and has unfolded its solar panels and communication antennas en route to its orbital slot at 17 degrees East. Amos-5 will undergo a sequence of in-orbit tests during the next few weeks, after which the satellite’s manufacturer ISS Reshetnev will officially hand over control of the satellite to Spacecom.

   Spacecom president and CEO David Pollack said Amos-5 would begin commercial operation of its pan-African C-band and Ku-band payload in early 2012. “Amos-5’s launch further transforms Spacecom into a leading multi-regional satellite operator and is truly a landmark event for us as we prepare to bring our reliable high-quality services to Africa,” Pollack said in a statement. “The satellite will offer excellent coverage and ready capacity to a rapidly growing region. Spacecom is excited and looks forward to providing comprehensive and quality communications solutions to Africa.”