The launch of DirecTV’s DirecTV 5 satellite failed to take place as scheduled on May 6 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. It was scheduled to blast off on May 7 as Interspace was going to press. A successful launch would give DirecTV seven satellites in orbit, including four satellites in its primary orbital slot at 101 degrees WL, one at 110 degrees WL and two at 119 degrees WL.

“The new satellite will increase our ability to enhance programming for existing customers, and on a limited basis, expand the number of markets where we offer local channels,” said David Baylor, executive vice president, DirecTV Inc. This launch also marks the first time a Russian Proton launch vehicle will carry a DirecTV satellite into orbit.