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More than 30 minutes after the launch, it was separated from the rocket and went into orbit.
It was Vietnam’s second Ariane 5 rocket launch since 2008 to carry a communications satellite into orbit.
Manufactured by Lockheed Martine from the US, VINASAT 2 is outfitted with Ku band transmission beams to blanket Southeast Asia and adjacent areas. The satellite weighs approximately 3 tonnes and has a lifespan of 15 years.
The satellite will offer direct television broadcasting, telecommunications and Internet services.
Together with VINASAT 1, VINASAT 2 will help ensure the safe and stable provision of services, intensify the safety of the national telecommunication network, and expand the provision of telecom, audio-visual and internet services across the country. It aims to support national socio-economic development, natural disaster mitigation, and national defence and security.
Following the success of the VINASAT 1 project in 2008, the Vietnam Post and Telecommunication Group (VNPT) was trusted to develop the VINASAT 2 project at a total cost of US$260-280 million.
It partnered Lockheed Martin from the US that supplies the satellite, control station equipment and launch services.
