Hughes Network Systems, LLC awarded a contract to Arianespace to launch its next-generation Spaceway 3 satellite.

The Ariane 5 heavy launcher will boost the satellite into a geosynchronous transfer orbit from the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana. Launch is set for August.

Arianespace also is planning a launch next year of AMC-21, the 26th satellite Arianespace is launching for the SES family of companies. Launch of AMC-21 is set for the second quarter of 2008 on an Ariane 5.