Thuraya-3 Satellite Launch Date Rescheduled

UAE-based satellite-phone operator Thuraya Satellite Telecommunications Co. is about to launch its 3rd satellite, with the aim of doubling the coverage of its network and thus consolidating its position as a major operator of satellite telephone and data services.

With the launch of the new satellite, Thuraya's existing coverage (Europe, North and Central Africa, Middle East and Indian Sub-continent) will be expanded into the Asia-Pacific market, including major markets such as China, Japan, Korea, Indonesia and Australia.

The Thuraya-3 satellite, manufactured by Boeing Satellite Development Center in the USA, will be launched from the Pacific Ocean from the Sea Launch floating launch platform.

The launch presently faces a small delay, owing to weather conditions at the launch site at sea; the launch is scheduled for 15.25h UTC on Wednesday 21 November 2007.