3G Via UK Built Satelite

Europe : A UK-built satellite set to revolutionise high-speed internet access and mobile phone services is due for launch on November 5.

Inmarsat-4 F2 is the second in a set of three telecommunications satellites. The technology onboard each satellite, built by Stevenage-based EADS Astrium, will allow people to set up virtual offices anywhere across the globe. Those set to benefit from high-speed broadband connections and new 3G phone technology include business travellers, disaster relief workers and journalists.

The British National Space Centre, through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), awarded EADS Astrium £7 million in research and development grants. This helped fund pre-competitive development of the digital onboard processor - this technology is vital to connect with small mobile terminals such as laptop computers.

London-based company Inmarsat awarded a £450 million contract to EADS Astrium to manufacture the three satellites, which feature the world's most complex payload in the civil telecommunications satellite sector.

Science and Innovation Minister Lord Sainsbury said:

"The Inmarsat 4 satellites are a great example of the UK's cutting-edge engineering skills. This second satellite is set to expand global access to broadband communications - transforming the way people work away from home.

"DTI funding has helped EADS Astrium and Inmarsat to enhance the UK's reputation world-wide and show that space technology can bring real benefits to us on Earth."

Inmarsat-4 F2 is due for launch from the Pacific Ocean at 14.22 GMT onboard a Sea Launch Odyssey on November 4. The satellite will be positioned in geostationary orbit over the Atlantic Ocean and will provide service coverage over South America, the Atlantic Ocean and part of the Pacific Ocean.

The first satellite in the series was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida on March 12 2005. It covers most of Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the Indian Ocean.

A third satellite is currently in production.

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