Long Beach, Calif., October 26, 2006 – Due to off-nominal data from its automated launch support equipment, Sea Launch today halted the launch of the XM-4 broadcast satellite. Following the direction to stop the countdown, the launch team immediately implemented system safing and securing operations, according to procedure. Both the spacecraft and the launch vehicle are in excellent condition.
Sea Launch will provide additional information, as available, on the Sea Launch website at www.sea-launch.com. We will also record the latest status on the Sea Launch Hot Line, at 800.995.4123.
Built by the Boeing Satellite Development Center, the Boeing 702 spacecraft carries a high-power S-band Digital Audio Radio Service (DARS) payload provided by Alcatel Alenia Space. Like the three XM satellites currently in orbit, XM-4 will accommodate XM Radio’s direct broadcast of radio programming to cars, homes and portable radios throughout the continental United States and Canada.
About Sea Launch Company
Sea Launch Company, LLC, headquartered in Long Beach, Calif., is the most reliable commercial launch services provider. With the advantage of a launch site on the Equator, the robust Zenit-3SL rocket can lift a heavier mass or provide longer life on orbit, offering best value plus schedule assurance. Sea Launch offers the most direct and cost-effective route to geostationary orbit. For additional information and images about the mission, please visit the Sea Launch website at: www.sea-launch.com
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Contact: Paula Korn, 562.499.4729 or 562.254.5684 (mobile), paula.korn@sea-launch.com
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