Yahsat secures first-ever Shariah compliant space insurance

Yahsat secures first-ever Shariah compliant space insurance
(Emirates News Agency UAE) April 7, 2010
Al Yah Satellite Communications Company has successfully secured the first ever Shariah compliant space insurance policy. The insurance solution, which was specifically developed to meet Yahsat’s needs, covers the launch and in-orbit operations of Y1A and Y1B, the Yahsat scheduled to be launched in 2011. The uniquely crafted insurance solution was a seamless fit with the innovative technology, deep regional insights and fresh approach that Yahsat will bring to the markets and the customers that it will serve. "Insurance protection is an integral part of our satellite program. With firm roots in the region, we are proud to be the first organization to use a new Shariah-compliant insurance solution for space programs," said Jassem Mohamed Al Zaabi, CEO,

Bolivia, China team up on communications satellite

Bolivia, China team up on communications satellite
(Reuters) April 1, 2010, By Eduardo Garcia
Leftist Bolivian President Evo Morales signed an agreement on Thursday that paves the way for the acquisition of a $300 million Chinese telecommunications satellite, the latest sign of deepening ties between the resource rich Andean country and commodity-hungry China. The satellite, which will be named after an Indian who led an uprising against the Spanish conquistadors in the 18th century, will improve Internet access and communications in remote rural areas, Morales said. Public Works Minister Walter Delgadillo said the accord signed on Thursday lays out the technical details of the project and the next step is to secure financing from China.

SES to Develop Orbital Slot for Andean Nations

SES to Develop Orbital Slot for Andean Nations

(Space News) February 8, 2010, By Peter B. de Selding

Satellite fleet operator SES of Luxembourg will move an in-orbit satellite to an orbital slot over South America by September to preserve access rights there held by the Andean Community of Nations in South America SES announced Feb. 8. In return for placing a satellite at the slot before the September deadline set by international frequency regulators, SES has secured a long-term agreement with the Andean nations to develop the slot. SES spokesman Yves Feltes said the company had not decided which satellite would be moved to 67 degrees west longitude. The Andean slot, which has been the subject of numerous debates among regulators at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has been reserved for Ku-band frequencies and has a good angle of view on the Americas and the Caribbean.