Optus confirmed today that its state-of-the-art D3 satellite is scheduled for launch from French Guiana on Saturday, 22 August 2009 AEST.

Paul Sheridan, Director of Optus Satellite said, "We are excited and looking forward to the launch of Optus D3. The Optus D3 Satellite will increase Optus' total satellite capacity, support existing customers including FOXTEL and Sky New Zealand and enable the development of new business opportunities for broadcast television and the direct-to-home market."

Optus successfully launched the first and second of the D-series satellites, Optus D1 and Optus D2, on an Arianespace launcher from French Guiana, South America in October 2006 and October 2007 respectively.

The Optus D-series satellites are constructed by Orbital Sciences Corporation of the United States.

For mission updates, please visit http://www.arianespace.com/news/mission-status.asp. Please note: The launch date is subject to change according to atmospheric conditions and technical considerations at the launch site.

Media contact:
Siobhan Quinn
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: (02) 8082 8432