Space Systems/Loral reports that a satellite designed and built for Telenor Satellite Broadcasting (TSBc), was successfully launched and is performing post-launch maneuvers according to plan. The satellite, THOR 7, deployed its solar arrays on schedule following its launch aboard an Ariane 5 launch vehicle from the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. It began firing its main thruster earlier this week in order to propel it toward its final geosynchronous orbit.

"THOR 7 is a very advanced and flexible satellite that will improve the lives of many people," said John Celli, president of SSL. "We would like to extend our gratitude to Telenor, Arianespace, and all of the SSL employees whose skills, hard work, and dedication helped make this satellite launch a success."

THOR 7 is a multi-mission satellite equipped with Telenor's first high performance Ka-band payload, designed to serve the maritime market and offer high powered coverage over the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea, the Red Sea, the Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean.

The satellite also has a Ku-band payload for broadcast and television services in Central and Eastern Europe. The satellite will be positioned at 1 degree West longitude.

"THOR 7 will help us grow our business in both broadcasting and data communications," said Morten Tengs, Vice President and CEO of Telenor Satellite Broadcasting. "We are very happy that the satellite is now on its way to orbit and would like to thank both SSL and Arianespace for making this satellite a success."

THOR 7 is based on the highly reliable SSL 1300 platform, which provides high-power and the flexibility to support a broad range of applications and technology advances. The satellite is designed to provide service for 15 years or more. With this launch, there are 78 SSL-built GEO satellites currently on orbit.