Arianespace has been boosted by the announcement of three new contract awards for the DirecTV-7s, iPSTAR-1 and Star One C1 satellites. “We are pleased that despite the market downturn, we were able to sign these three orders – two of which [are] with repeat customers, and the third involves a new operator,” said Arianespace chairman and CEO Jean-Marie Luton.

Arianespace has already successfully launched the DirecTV-1, DirecTV-3 and DirecTV-4S satellites for U.S. DTH provider DirecTV. DirecTV-7s will operate from 119 degrees West. IPSTAR will be the fourth satellite launched for Shin Satellite. It will be positioned at 120 degrees East and mainly provide broadband and Internet services.

Arianespace’s launch of Star One C1 marks the first time it has gained a contract from the Latin American largest satellite operators. Star One C1 will be located at 67 degrees West and will be stationed above the Atlantic Ocean.