PR/22/08
EUTELSAT STATEMENT ON W5 SATELLITE
Paris, 17 June 2008
The W5 satellite operated by Eutelsat Communications (Euronext Paris: ETL)
experienced an anomaly to part of its power generator subsystem in the night of 16
to 17 June. The source of the anomaly is currently under investigation in
collaboration with the satellite’s manufacturer, Thales Alenia Space.
For technical reasons, and as a matter of precaution Eutelsat has therefore reduced
by a small number the operating transponders on the satellite according to standard
flight procedures. The capacity maintained in operation is providing normal service.
About Eutelsat Communications
Eutelsat Communications (Euronext Paris: ETL, ISIN code: FR0010221234) is the holding company of
Eutelsat S.A.. With capacity commercialised on 24 satellites that provide coverage over the entire
European continent, as well as the Middle East, Africa, India and significant parts of Asia and the
Americas, Eutelsat is one of the world's three leading satellite operators in terms of revenues. At 31
March 2008, Eutelsat’s satellites were broadcasting almost 3,000 television channels and 1,100 radio
stations. More than 1,100 channels broadcast via its HOT BIRD™ video neighbourhood at 13 degrees
East which serves over 120 million cable and satellite homes in Europe, the Middle East and North
Africa. The Group’s satellites also serve a wide range of fixed and mobile telecommunications services,
TV contribution markets, corporate networks, and broadband markets for Internet Service Providers and
for transport, maritime and in-flight markets. Eutelsat's broadband subsidiary, Skylogic, markets and
operates services through teleports in France and Italy that serve enterprises, local communities,
government agencies and aid organisations in Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas. Headquartered in
Paris, Eutelsat and its subsidiaries employ 538 commercial, technical and operational experts from 27
countries.
For further information
Press
Vanessa O’Connor
Tel: + 33 1 53 98 38 88
Frédérique Gautier
Tel: + 33 1 53 98 38 88
Investors
Gilles Janvier
Tel: +33 1 53 98 35 30