New data and video satellite, Intelsat 15, launched into orbit aboard Zenit 3SLB rocket.

On November 30^th, a Zenit 3SLB launched the new Intelsat 15 data and communications satellite into orbit. It will reach an orbit as high as 22,300 miles above the earth.

The rocket launched from launch pad 45A at the Baikonur Cosmodrome at 3 A.M local time in Kazakhstan. General Manager Kjell Karlsen of Sea Launch said this, “I want to congratulate Intelsat and Orbital for a very successful mission. This is the 10th satellite we've orbited for Intelsat and we look forward to launching many more satellites for you in the future.”

Intelsat 15’s next step is to expand its power-generating solar arrays. In a couple weeks, it will deploy two 7.5 ft. antenna reflectors. Intel Sat will provide data and video communications for multiple regions, and its coverage stretches from North Africa to Siberia. The satellite will replace the Intelsat 709.

Plans are already ahead for the launch of the Intelsat 18 in 2011 using the Land Launch system. This also marks the 3^rd Intelsat launch within a month. The Norwegian Thor 6 launched on October 29^th and the Intelsat 14 on the 23^rd of November.