NILESAT-1

This satellite will be used to transmit programmes from almost 50 television channels over North Africa and most of the Middle East. Egypt, one of the world's leading film producers for cinema and television, will move into the 21th century equipped with the most advanced satellite broadcast resources. The Egyptian authorities were anxious to satisfy the entire country's desire for modernity and their commitment to this direct television project led them to reserve 20% of the capital of the Nilesat company for the public. This company, quoted on the stock exchange, also includes the Egyptian Radio and Television, which holds 40% of the shares, together with banks and Egyptian private investors. The shareholders entrusted the production of this first Egyptian space telecommunications programme to a French team, following an international call for tender involving the main industry leaders in this field. Alcatel, as major partner with Matra Marconi Space, is responsible for the design, development and production of the NILESAT-1 payload, together with the telemetry and telecommand hardware. A lightweight, high performance payload The payload will include 12 high power Ku band repeaters capable of broadcasting about 50 analogue and digital television channels to North Africa and most of the Middle East. The programmes will be able to be picked up directly using small dish antennas (60 cm diameter). This extremely lightweight and high performance payload was a decisive selection criterion. NILESAT-1 will be produced within 24 months, once again demonstrating Alcatel's ability to deliver within the shortest possible deadlines. A guarantee for the customer The contract for the supply of the satellite includes a guarantee option for the customer. It may be confirmed in the event of a launch failure, so that an identical satellite can be delivered within a 12 month period. If the launch is successful, this option can be used quickly to initiate the development of a second satellite to increase system capacity, according to demand. Characteristics NILESAT-1 uses a EUROSTAR 2000 platform. Orbital position 7° west Satellite dry mass 794 kg Launch mass 1,666 kg Span (solar panels extended) 22 m E.I.R.P. (Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power) 47 dBW to 50 dBW Power consumption 2.75 kW Contractual life time 12 years Launch vehicle Ariane IV/Ariane V

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